What are some of the advantages of growing shrub willow over other energy crops?
Shrub willow crops are ideal for renewable energy due to the environmental benefits and the sustainability of the crop. They have a low nutrient and nitrogen demand compared to other crops. Since the crop is coppiced in the fall after leaf senescence, this allows for nutrient cycling back to the roots and for the production of new organic matter. They grow very well on underutilized, fallow land and can improve soil conditions and microbial diversity. Once the crop is established, very little maintenance is required and fertilizer applications are relatively low.
