Willow

Short Rotation Coppice Willow can be grown to be used as a biomass fuel in boilers for heat or combined heat and power plants that produce both heat and electricity.

The growing cycle

SRC Willow is a long-term crop and you should plan for it to be in the ground for at least 20 years or even up to 30 years before replanting becomes necessary. The crop will reach 7 to 8 metres in height prior to harvest. The impact of such a crop on the local landscape, ecology, archaeology and public access must therefore be carefully considered.

What type of soil is required to grow SRC Willow?

High yields of Willow can be produced on a wide range of soils from heavy clay to sandy soils. Because SRC Willow is normally harvested in February & March soils should ideally be naturally free draining, as water logging may cause difficulty with harvesting machinery and trailers. Very stony soils or steeply sloping ground should be avoided as this can cause difficulty when planting and during harvesting.

The best yields of Willow (as with most agricultural crops) will come from deep soils with good moisture reserves.

What type of climate is required for Willow?

Sunshine, temperature and rainfall has a major impact on Willow crop yield. Willow plants will grow best were annual rainfall is in the range 600 to 1000m (23 to 39inches).

Typical Yields

Records from early commercial sites ranged from 5 to 9 odt/ha/year. Average yields from experimental plots have reached 18 odt/ha/year of new now commercially available varieties.

SRC Willow breeding programmes continue to produce varieties that out-perform older varieties.

Variations in yield result from several factors including planting density, soil type/moisture content and pest/weed control.

Crop Value

The market for Willow is steadily developing. When comparing prices per tonne for Willow it is best to do so on the basis of dry weight (zero moisture). When considering the crop value and comparing with the output of more conventional crops you must also consider the lower average annual, costs of cultivation and crop establishment for SRC Willow.

Willow has the added advantage that burning the crop is carbon neutral as any carbon emissions are absorbed by the growing crop.

If you require any more information on Willow please contact:

Keith Roberts
CMS UK
Spring Farm Business Centre
Moss Lane
Minshull Vernon
Crewe
Cheshire CW1 4RJ
Tel: 01270 522645