September 2024 – Edinburgh Demonstrator Hub Update
At the Boghall Demonstration Hub, crops are progressing into senescence, reflecting seasonal changes. Eucalyptusremains tall, green, and healthy, standing out among species like Alder, which is largely bare with brown, dry leaves. Poplar and Willow show varying stages of senescence, with some trees completely bare while others retain leaves. Miscanthus giganteus and Terravesta Athena are transitioning, with senescence visible at the base of the plants; hare damage has been noted in Athena plots, prompting checks for fencing gaps. In the Willow Variety Trial, some varieties exhibit striking orange hues as they senesce. Sida appears dry and limp, while Reed Canary Grass and Switchgrass remain patchy but stable. Overall, the site reflects a mix of senescence stages and biodiversity, with hare activity being a minor issue.
Crop Diaries
Click on the titles below to find out how each of the crops are progressing.
Alder
- Senescence is well on the way in the SRF Alder plot.
- Some trees are completely bare already.
- The remaining leaves are brown and dry.
Black Locust
- Most of the SRF black locust ‘Turbo’ leaves are yellowing and senescence has started.
Eucalyptus
- The SRF Eucalyptus trees are looking big, green and healthy.
Poplar
- The SRF poplar trees are in various stages of senescence. Some are completely bare, but others are hanging on to leaves.
- The SRC poplar trees are in various stages of senescence, but not quite as far on as SRF.
Miscanthus
- Senescence has started in the 0.5 ha Miscanthus giganteus plot, but the plants are still bushy.
- The 0.5 ha Miscanthus Athena™ plot is looking good. Most plants are still green, with low levels of senescence at the bottom of the plants. Some hare damage has been noted and the fences checked.
- In the 2023 Miscanthus variety trial plot, some varieties are further on with senescence than others. Some are still quite green.
- In the 2024 Miscanthus variety trial, some varieties are a bit patchier than others. The Illinois variety is growing particularly well. Some hare damage has been noted but we couldn’t find the culprits (or where they’re gaining access).
Willow
- The 0.5 ha SRC willow is in various stages of senescence, some are completely bare but most are hanging on to leaves. We couldn’t find any willow beetle or aphids.
- In the SRC willow variety trial, some varieties are very orange. Senescence has started in most varieties.
Sida
- The older Sida is still upright but brown and dry.
- The newer Sida (plug plants) is a bit limp and brown.
Reed Canary Grass
- The reed canary grass plot still looks patchy.
Switchgrass
- The switchgrass plot still looks patchy.