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Progress at the Biomass Connect Demonstrator Hub at Cockle Park Farm in Newcastle has shown mixed results in plant health across various species.

Over the past few weeks, a series of successful demonstration events held across northern UK highlighted the promising opportunities that biomass crops like willow and Miscanthus offer for sustainable agriculture, carbon capture, and renewable energy

Hot on the heels of the Carbon for Chemicals report from the Supergen Bioenergy Hub and Biomass Biorefinery Network published in August comes another report on a similar subject. The 'Sustainable Carbon Ambition for the UK Chemicals Industry' report is based on the views of over 250 stakeholders.

Despite blustery and showery weather, Biomass Connect and Rothamsted Research successfully hosted an engaging event at the North Wyke Demonstrator Hub. The event attracted 47 participants from various sectors within the emerging biomass supply chain and focused on the practical integration of biomass crops—such as willow, poplar, and Miscanthus—into farming and land management systems.

There were a number of developments during September at Headley Hall. The SRF alder showed severe leaf damage due to beetle infestations, while SRF black locust ‘Turbo’ remained healthy despite some wind rocking as the weather worsened. SRF Eucalyptus require supports to help with tree lodging, though the trees remained largely healthy. The Poplar plots performed well, with good canopy and trunk growth and some trees showed early senescence. Miscanthus varieties experienced robust growth, and the SRC willow variety trials saw caterpillar damage in certain plots. Maintenance tasks, such as topping grass aisles and managing fencing, were also addressed to ensure continued progress.

The SRF and SRC plots, including Alder, Eucalyptus, and Poplar, showed varying growth patterns with some signs of senescence and pest activity, such as rust on Alder and aphids on Eucalyptus. While Miscanthus varieties demonstrated strong growth, broadleaf and grass weeds were controlled through mowing, and some Sida plants had begun flowering.

At the Chesham Demonstrator hub, most crops are progressing well, with SRF Alder and Poplar both in full leaf and looking healthy. Some maintenance activities, such as staking and weed control, have been completed for SRF Eucalyptus and SRC Willow, which is growing tall and vigorous. However, some challenges have been observed, including patchy germination in Reed Canary Grass and a weedy Silphium plot. Ongoing efforts include herbicide applications, mowing, and regular monitoring to manage these issues effectively.

Overall, crops are growing well, with ongoing management efforts addressing specific challenges like weeds and pest control.

At Coleg Sir Gâr agricultural students are gaining valuable insights into how biomass production can be integrated into modern farming practices. As part of their course, students studying for the City & Guilds Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in Agriculture had the opportunity to engage with Mark Needham, a representative from Biomass Connect, on Friday, 20th September.