Biomass crops
Learn about the biomass crops miscanthus, willow and poplar and their potential to capture carbon
Image source: Terravesta
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Short rotation coppice (SRC) willow involves the planting of fast growing willows at very close spacings (16,600/hectare). Planting should take place between March and June. Harvesting takes place every 3 years during winter. Normally a SRC is planted with a mixture of varieties to increase disease and pest resilience within the plantation. When coppiced, the rootstock is left in the ground, this is where the new shoots will emerge from the following year. If maintained well, a SRC plantation can last up to 25 years with 7 harvests.
The ideal soil type is a medium to heavy clay-loam as these soils are good at retaining moisture. The pH needs to be in the range of 5.5 - 7.5 for optimal yield. SRC can be grown on reclaimed or marginal land however, this is likely to reduce yield.
Uses of willow
The bark of all Salix species contains salicin. Aspirin is derived from salicin. For foraging livestock, grazing on willow can provide gut health benefits by reducing parasite burdens as well reliving tooth and general pains.
Willow chips provide an alternative form of animal bedding to straw. Willow chips are absorbent making them hygienic.
Willow chip mulch helps to improve soil fertility and structure, maintaining soil moisture and preventing water and wind erosion.
Benefits of willow
Studies have shown that SRC willow plantations can become a carbon sink after 5 years.
SRC provides good habitats in the soil, on the soil surface and between the rows. Additionally, willow provides an early source of food for pollinators.
SRC requires a lot of waters nd it has a deep root system that can help infiltration to reducing flooding.
The annual foliage return improves soil organic matter. The root system also prevents soil erosion which in turn improves soil structure.