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9 pages, 1593 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Growth and Development of Short-Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications

by Ronald S. Zalesny, Jr. and Andrej Pilipović

Forests 2022, 13(6), 867; https://doi.org/10.3390/f13060867 - 31 May 2022

Viewed by 1797

Abstract

Woody biomass from short-rotation woody crops (SRWCs) plays a substantial role in feedstock production for alternative energy sources throughout the world, thus helping to mitigate climate change driven by excessive use of fossil fuels [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

12 pages, 2208 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reed Canary Grass for Energy in Sweden: Yields, Land-Use Patterns, and Climatic Profile

by Blas Mola-Yudego, Xiaoqian Xu, Oskar Englund and Ioannis Dimitriou

Forests 2021, 12(7), 897; https://doi.org/10.3390/f12070897 - 9 Jul 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2615

Abstract

Research Highlights: (1) Reed canary grass (RCG) is analysed in Sweden compared to willow and poplar for 2001–2020. (2) Each crop presents a different land-use and climatic profile. (3) Average yield records of RCG are similar to willow and poplar. (4) There are [...] Read more.

Research Highlights: (1) Reed canary grass (RCG) is analysed in Sweden compared to willow and poplar for 2001–2020. (2) Each crop presents a different land-use and climatic profile. (3) Average yield records of RCG are similar to willow and poplar. (4) There are divergences between trial-based and commercial yields. (5) Existing land-use change patterns suggest meadow > RCG and RCG > cereal. (6) RCG land area is very sensitive to policy incentives. Background and objectives: RCG is an alternative crop for biomass-to-energy due to high yield and frost tolerance. We assess the cultivation in Sweden by using an extensive compilation of data, with emphasis on the extent of the cultivation, climatic profile, land-use patterns, and productivity. Material and methods: RCG plantations are analysed for 2001–2020. A geostatistical analysis is performed to characterize where it is cultivated and the land uses associated. Climatic, productivity, and yield profiles are compared to willow and poplar plantations from experiments and from commercial plantations. Results: The results show that the cultivation of RCG expanded after 2005, with a maximum of 800 ha in 2009, to then decrease to the current levels of about 550 ha. It is mainly grown in colder climatic areas, with lower agricultural productivity than willow and poplar. Mean yields from trials are 6 oven dry tonnes (odt) ha⁻¹ year⁻¹; commercial yields are 3.5 odt ha⁻¹ year⁻¹. RCG replaces meadow land and then is replaced by cereals when abandoned. Conclusions: RCG is an interesting alternative with similar yields (commercial and trials) as other energy crops, but its success is more sensitive to policy incentives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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17 pages, 1788 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Productivity and Profitability of Poplars on Fertile and Marginal Sandy Soils under Different Density and Fertilization Treatments

by Solomon B. Ghezehei, Alexander L. Ewald, Dennis W. Hazel, Ronald S. Zalesny, Jr. and Elizabeth Guthrie Nichols

Forests 2021, 12(7), 869; https://doi.org/10.3390/f12070869 - 30 Jun 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2197

Abstract

We evaluated the productivity and profitability of four highly productive poplars including Populus deltoides × P. deltoides (DD ‘140’ and ‘356’), P. deltoides × P. maximowiczii (DM ‘230’), and P. trichocarpa × P. deltoides (TD ‘185’) under two densities (2500 and 5000 trees [...] Read more.

We evaluated the productivity and profitability of four highly productive poplars including Populus deltoides × P. deltoides (DD ‘140’ and ‘356’), P. deltoides × P. maximowiczii (DM ‘230’), and P. trichocarpa × P. deltoides (TD ‘185’) under two densities (2500 and 5000 trees ha⁻¹), and three fertilization treatments (0, 113, 225 kg nitrogen ha⁻¹) at three sandy coastal sites varying in soil quality. Green stem biomass (GSB) was estimated from the sixth-year stem diameter. Leaf-rust (Melampsora castagne) and beetle damage (by Chrysomela scripta Fabricius), the leaf area index (LAI) and foliar nitrogen, were measured in year two. At all sites, DD and DM had higher survival (>93%) than TD (62–83%). DD produced greater GSB (92.5–219.1 Mg ha⁻¹) than DM (54–60.2 Mg ha⁻¹) and TD (16.5–48.9 Mg ha⁻¹), and this was greater under the higher density (85.9–148.6 Mg ha⁻¹ vs. 55.9–124.9 Mg ha⁻¹). Fertilization significantly increased GSB on fertile soil but not marginal soils; a higher rate did not significantly enhance GSB. Leaf rust was higher for fertile soil (82%) than marginal soils (20–22%), and TD ‘185’ (51% vs. others 34%). C. scripta damage was higher for the higher density (+42%) than lower density, and TD ‘185’ (50% vs. others >38%). LAI was higher on fertile soil (1.85 m² m⁻²) than marginal soils (1.35–1.64 m² m⁻²), and under the lower density (1.67 m² m⁻² vs. 1.56 m² m⁻²). The high GSB producer DD ‘356’ had the lowest LAI (1.39 m² m⁻² vs. 1.80 m² m⁻²). Foliar nitrogen varied among genomic groups (DD ‘140’ 1.95%; TD ‘185’ 1.80%). Our plots were unprofitable at a 27 USD Mg⁻¹ delivered price; the biggest profitability barriers were the high costs of higher density establishment and weed control. The best-case treatment combinations of DD (‘140’, ‘356’) would be cost-effective if the price increased by 50% (USD 37.54 Mg⁻¹) or rotations were 12 years (fertile-soil) and longer (marginal soils). The requirement for cost-effectiveness of poplars includes stringent and site-specific weed control which are more important than fertilizer applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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21 pages, 3502 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biochemical and Gene Expression Analyses in Different Poplar Clones: The Selection Tools for Afforestation of Halomorphic Environments

by Vladislava Galović, Marko Kebert, Boris M. Popović, Branislav Kovačević, Verica Vasić, Mary Prathiba Joseph, Saša Orlović and László Szabados

Forests 2021, 12(5), 636; https://doi.org/10.3390/f12050636 - 18 May 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2815

Abstract

Halomorphic soils cover a significant area in the Vojvodina region and represent ecological and economic challenges for agricultural and forestry sectors. In this study, four economically important Serbian poplar clones were compared according to their biochemical and transcriptomic responses towards mild and severe [...] Read more.

Halomorphic soils cover a significant area in the Vojvodina region and represent ecological and economic challenges for agricultural and forestry sectors. In this study, four economically important Serbian poplar clones were compared according to their biochemical and transcriptomic responses towards mild and severe salt stress to select the most tolerant clones for afforestation of halomorphic soils. Three prospective clones of Populus deltoides (Bora-B229, Antonije-182/81 and PE19/66) and one of hybrid genetic background P. nigraxP. deltoides, e.g., P. x euramericana (Pannonia-M1) were hydroponically subjected to NaCl as a salt stress agent in a concentration range from 150 mM to 450 mM. Plant responses were measured at different time periods in the leaves. Biochemical response of poplar clones to salt stress was estimated by tracking several parameters such as different radical scavenging capacities (estimated by DPPH, FRAP and ABTS assays), accumulation of total phenolic content and flavonoids. Furthermore, accumulation of two osmolytes, glycine betaine and proline, were quantified. The genetic difference of those clones has been already shown by single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) but this paper emphasized their differences regarding biochemical and transcriptomic salt stress responses. Five candidate genes, two putative poplar homologues of GRAS family TFs (PtGRAS17 and PtGRAS16), PtDREB2 of DREB family TFs and two abiotic stress-inducible genes (PtP5SC1, PtSOS1), were examined for their expression profiles. Results show that most salt stress-responsive genes were induced in clones M1 and PE19/66, thus showing they can tolerate salt environments with high concentrations and could be efficient in phytoremediation of salt environments. Clone M1 and PE19/66 has ABA-dependent mechanisms expressing the PtP5CS1 gene while clone 182/81 could regulate the expression of the same gene by ABA-independent pathway. To improve salt tolerance in poplar, two putative GRAS/SCL TFs and PtDREB2 gene seem to be promising candidates for genetic engineering of salt-tolerant poplar clones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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8 pages, 2219 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Short Communication: IPC Salix Cultivar Database Proof-of-Concept

by Patrick N. McGovern, Yulia A. Kuzovkina and Raju Y. Soolanayakanahally

Forests 2021, 12(5), 631; https://doi.org/10.3390/f12050631 - 17 May 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2507

Abstract

A variety of Salix L. (Willow) tree and shrub cultivars provide resources for significant commercial markets such as bioenergy, environmental applications, basket manufacturing, and ornamental selections. The International Poplar Commission of the Food and Agriculture Organization (IPC FAO) has maintained the Checklist for [...] Read more.

A variety of Salix L. (Willow) tree and shrub cultivars provide resources for significant commercial markets such as bioenergy, environmental applications, basket manufacturing, and ornamental selections. The International Poplar Commission of the Food and Agriculture Organization (IPC FAO) has maintained the Checklist for Cultivars of Salix L. (Willow) since 2015 and now lists 968 epithet records in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet format. This Proof-of-Concept (POC) investigates using an SQL database to store existing IPC Salix cultivar information and provide users with a format to compare and submit new Salix cultivar entries. The original IPC data were divided into three separate tables: Epithet, Species, and Family. Then, the data were viewed from three different model perspectives: the original Salix IPC spreadsheet data, the Canadian (PWCC), and the Open4st database. Requirements for this process need to balance database integrity rules with the ease of adding new Salix cultivar entries. An integrated approach from all three models proposed three tables: Epithet, Family, and Pedigree. The Epithet and Family tables also included Species data with a reference to a website link for accepted species names and details. The integrated process provides a more robust method to store and report data, but would require dedicated IT personnel to implement and maintain long-term. A potential use case scenario could involve users submitting their Checklist entries to the Salix administrator for review; the entries are then entered into a test environment by IT resources for final review and promotion to a production online environment. Perhaps the most beneficial outcome of this study is the investigation of various strategies and standards for Epithet and Family recording processes, which may benefit the entire Populus and Salix communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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12 pages, 724 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Economic Modelling of Poplar Short Rotation Coppice Plantations in Hungary

by Endre Schiberna, Attila Borovics and Attila Benke

Forests 2021, 12(5), 623; https://doi.org/10.3390/f12050623 - 14 May 2021

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2679

Abstract

No study has been previously completed on the range of sites, potential yield, and financial characteristics of poplar short rotation coppice plantations (SRC) in Hungary. This paper conducts a literature survey to reveal the biomass production potential of such plantations and presents a [...] Read more.

No study has been previously completed on the range of sites, potential yield, and financial characteristics of poplar short rotation coppice plantations (SRC) in Hungary. This paper conducts a literature survey to reveal the biomass production potential of such plantations and presents a model that is used to analyze their financial performance. The results indicate that the break-even-point of production is between 6 and 8 oven-dry tons per hectare per year once a minimum cost level and wood chip price within a 10% range of the 2020 value are considered. The higher the wood chip price, the lower the break-even-point. Since the model excluded the administrative costs that depend on the type and size of the management organization, the break-even-points can be significantly higher in reality, which suggests that short rotation energy plantations can be a financially reasonable land-use option in above average or even superior poplar-growing sites. The rotation period of industrial poplar plantations that produce high quality veneer logs ranges from 12 to 25 years. Though such sites can provide higher returns on investment, short rotation plantations have the advantage of providing a more evenly distributed cash flow. To facilitate the wider application of poplar SRC, the related policies need to apply specific subsidies and allow the rotation cycle to be extended up to 20–25 years, which is currently limited to 15 years. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

28 pages, 4185 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Field Testing of Selected Salt-Tolerant Screened Balsam Poplar (Populus balsamifera L.) Clones for Use in Reclamation around End-Pit Lakes Associated with Bitumen Extraction in Northern Alberta

by Yue Hu, David Kamelchuk, Richard Krygier and Barb R. Thomas

Forests 2021, 12(5), 572; https://doi.org/10.3390/f12050572 - 2 May 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2385

Abstract

For the oil sands mine sites in northern Alberta, the presence of salty process affected water, a byproduct of the hot-water bitumen extraction process, is anticipated to pose a challenge on some reconstructed landforms. The fundamental challenge when re-vegetating these sites is to [...] Read more.

For the oil sands mine sites in northern Alberta, the presence of salty process affected water, a byproduct of the hot-water bitumen extraction process, is anticipated to pose a challenge on some reconstructed landforms. The fundamental challenge when re-vegetating these sites is to ensure not only survival, but vigorous growth where plants are subjected to conditions of high electrical conductivity owing to salts in process affected water that may be contained in the substrate. Finding plants suitable for high salt conditions has offered the opportunity for Alberta-Pacific Forest Industries Inc. (Al-Pac) to investigate the potential role of using native balsam poplar (Populus balsamifera L.) as a key reclamation species for the oil sands region. Two years of greenhouse screening (2012 and 2013) of 222 balsam poplar clones from Al-Pac’s balsam poplar tree improvement program, using process affected discharge water from an oil sands processing facility in Ft. McMurray, has suggested an opportunity to select genetically suitable native clones of balsam poplar for use in reclamation of challenging sites affected by process water. In consideration of the results from both greenhouse and field testing, there is an opportunity to select genetically suitable native clones of balsam poplar that are tolerant to challenging growing conditions, making them more suitable for planting on saline sites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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21 pages, 2257 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Short-Rotation Willows as a Wastewater Treatment Plant: Biomass Production and the Fate of Macronutrients and Metals

by Darja Istenič and Gregor Božič

Forests 2021, 12(5), 554; https://doi.org/10.3390/f12050554 - 29 Apr 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2912

Abstract

Evapotranspirative willow systems (EWS) are zero-discharge wastewater treatment plants that produce woody biomass and have no discharge to surface or groundwater bodies. The influence of wastewater on the growth of three clones of Salix alba (‘V 093’, ‘V 051’ and ‘V 160’) and [...] Read more.

Evapotranspirative willow systems (EWS) are zero-discharge wastewater treatment plants that produce woody biomass and have no discharge to surface or groundwater bodies. The influence of wastewater on the growth of three clones of Salix alba (‘V 093’, ‘V 051’ and ‘V 160’) and the distribution of macronutrients and metals in a pilot EWS receiving primary treated municipal wastewater was studied under a sub-Mediterranean climate. The influent wastewater, shoot number, stem height, and biomass production at coppicing were monitored in two consecutive two-year rotations. Soil properties and the concentrations of macronutrients and metals in soil and woody biomass were analyzed after the first rotation. S. alba clones in EWS produced significantly more woody biomass compared to controls. ‘V 052’ produced the highest biomass yield in both rotations (38–59 t DM ha⁻¹) and had the highest nitrogen and phosphorus uptake (48% and 45%) from wastewater. Nitrogen and phosphorus uptake into the harvestable woody biomass was significantly higher in all clones studied compared to other plant-based wastewater treatment plants, indicating the nutrient recovery potential of EWS. The indigenous white willow clone ‘V 160’ had the lowest biomass yield but absorbed more nutrients from wastewater compared to ‘V 093’. Wastewater composition and load were consistent with the nutrient requirements of the willows; however, an increase in salinity was observed after only two years of operation, which could affect EWS efficiency and nutrient recovery in the long term. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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23 pages, 2336 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Establishment of Regional Phytoremediation Buffer Systems for Ecological Restoration in the Great Lakes Basin, USA. II. New Clones Show Exceptional Promise

by Andrej Pilipović, Ronald S. Zalesny, Jr., Elizabeth R. Rogers, Bernard G. McMahon, Neil D. Nelson, Joel G. Burken, Richard A. Hallett and Chung-Ho Lin

Forests 2021, 12(4), 474; https://doi.org/10.3390/f12040474 - 13 Apr 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2132

Abstract

Poplar tree improvement strategies are needed to enhance ecosystem services’ provisioning and achieve phytoremediation objectives. We evaluated the establishment potential of new poplar clones developed at the University of Minnesota Duluth, Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI) from sixteen phytoremediation buffer systems (phyto buffers) [...] Read more.

Poplar tree improvement strategies are needed to enhance ecosystem services’ provisioning and achieve phytoremediation objectives. We evaluated the establishment potential of new poplar clones developed at the University of Minnesota Duluth, Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI) from sixteen phytoremediation buffer systems (phyto buffers) (buffer groups: 2017 × 6; 2018 × 5; 2019 × 5) throughout the Lake Superior and Lake Michigan watersheds. We divided clones into Experimental (testing stage genotypes) and Common (commercial and/or research genotypes) clone groups and compared them with each other and each NRRI clone (NRRI group) at the phyto buffers. We tested for differences in clone groups, phyto buffers, and their interactions for survival, health, height, diameter, and volume from ages one to four years. First-year survival was 97.1%, with 95.5%, 96.2%, and 99.6% for the 2017, 2018, and 2019 buffer groups, respectively. All trees had optimal health. Fourth-year mean annual increment of 2017 buffer group trees ranged from 2.66 ± 0.18 to 3.65 ± 0.17 Mg ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹. NRRI clones ‘99038022’ and ‘9732-31’ exhibited exceptional survival and growth across eleven and ten phyto buffers, respectively, for all years. These approaches advance poplar tree improvement efforts throughout the region, continent, and world, with methods informing clonal selection for multiple end-uses, including phytotechnologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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17 pages, 3192 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Productivity of Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) Grown on a Varying Habitats in Southeastern Poland

by Artur Kraszkiewicz

Forests 2021, 12(4), 470; https://doi.org/10.3390/f12040470 - 12 Apr 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2281

Abstract

This study investigated growth performances of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) tree species in various soil and agro-climatic conditions in Poland. Implementing of research was based on monoculture black locust stands in which it was possible to carry out dendrometric tests allowing [...] Read more.

This study investigated growth performances of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) tree species in various soil and agro-climatic conditions in Poland. Implementing of research was based on monoculture black locust stands in which it was possible to carry out dendrometric tests allowing us to learn about their volume. These stands were located on marginal soils. In the sample plots selected for the study, the parameters of stands (main and secondary) were determined, such as number and social structure of trees, average tree height, average diameter at breast height (DBH), and volume. The volume was determined with division into trunks and branches and wood thickness classes (0.0–1.0 cm, 1.1–5.0 cm, 5.1–10.0 cm and then every 5 cm). During the research, it was found that sunlight and moisture conditions mainly affect the volume. It has been noticed that the content of nutrients in the soil plays a minor role because black locust grows very well in poorly fertile soils, often subject to erosion processes. Black locust grows well on damp, shaded slopes with northern exposures. In such areas, the stand volume was the highest (353.8 m³ ha⁻¹), exceeding the average volume of the remaining 35-year-old stands on sandy soils by 60%. Along with the increase in the age of stands, the share of trunk wood increased with the wood of branches. The share of wood up to 5.0 cm was small in older stands, at most a dozen or so percent. However, in young stands (4- and 8-year-old), the share of the thickness class up to 5 cm was even 65% of the stand volume. In 35-year-old stands, wood fractions of 15.1–20.0 cm were dominant. In the oldest, 64-year-old stand, over 30 cm thick wood constituted 44% of the stand volume. However, statistical analysis showed, with p = 0.1644, no differences existed between the thickness of the individual thickness classes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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18 pages, 3830 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Utilization of Fish Farm Effluent for Irrigation Short Rotation Willow (Salix alba L.) under Lysimeter Conditions

by Ildikó Kolozsvári, Ágnes Kun, Mihály Jancsó, Beatrix Bakti, Csaba Bozán and Csaba Gyuricza

Forests 2021, 12(4), 457; https://doi.org/10.3390/f12040457 - 9 Apr 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2527

Abstract

Efficient utilization, treatment, and disposal of agricultural wastewater and sewage sludge are important environmental risks. In our research, effluent water from intensive aquaculture was evaluated for the irrigation of short rotation energy willow in a lysimeter experiment. Two different water types and their [...] Read more.

Efficient utilization, treatment, and disposal of agricultural wastewater and sewage sludge are important environmental risks. In our research, effluent water from intensive aquaculture was evaluated for the irrigation of short rotation energy willow in a lysimeter experiment. Two different water types and their combinations were applied with weekly doses of 15, 30, and 60 mm, respectively. Our results revealed that implementing effluent water instead of fresh water could potentially increase the yield of the willow due to its higher nitrogen content (29 N mg/L). The biomass of irrigated short rotation coppice (SRC) willow plants were between 493–864 g/plant, 226–482 g/plant, and 268–553 g/plant dry weight during experiment period (2015–2017), respectively. However, due to the chemical properties (Na concentration, SAR value) of effluent water, the increase of the soil exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) was significant and it can lead to soil degradation in the long term. The current study also investigated the relationship between chemical composition of the plant tissue and the irrigation water. In the case of K-levels of willow clones, an increasing trend was observed year-by-year. In terms of N and Na content was localized in leaf parts, especially in samples irrigated with effluent. Less N and Na values were detected in the stem and in the samples irrigated with surface water. In SRC willow plants, phosphorus was mostly localized in the stem, to a lower extent in the leaf part. The difference is mostly observed in the case of the amount of irrigation water, where the P content of the examined plant parts decreased with the increase of the amount of irrigation water. In the case of phenological observations, higher values of plant height were measured during diluted and effluent irrigation. Moreover, the SPAD of the plants irrigated with effluent water exceeded the irrigated ones with surface water. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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23 pages, 1742 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Establishment of Regional Phytoremediation Buffer Systems for Ecological Restoration in the Great Lakes Basin, USA. I. Genotype × Environment Interactions

by Ronald S. Zalesny, Jr., Andrej Pilipović, Elizabeth R. Rogers, Joel G. Burken, Richard A. Hallett, Chung-Ho Lin, Bernard G. McMahon, Neil D. Nelson, Adam H. Wiese, Edmund O. Bauer, Larry Buechel, Brent S. DeBauche, Mike Peterson, Ray Seegers and Ryan A. Vinhal

Forests 2021, 12(4), 430; https://doi.org/10.3390/f12040430 - 2 Apr 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3288

Abstract

Poplar remediation systems are ideal for reducing runoff, cleaning groundwater, and delivering ecosystem services to the North American Great Lakes and globally. We used phyto-recurrent selection (PRS) to establish sixteen phytoremediation buffer systems (phyto buffers) (buffer groups: 2017 × 6; 2018 × 5; [...] Read more.

Poplar remediation systems are ideal for reducing runoff, cleaning groundwater, and delivering ecosystem services to the North American Great Lakes and globally. We used phyto-recurrent selection (PRS) to establish sixteen phytoremediation buffer systems (phyto buffers) (buffer groups: 2017 × 6; 2018 × 5; 2019 × 5) throughout the Lake Superior and Lake Michigan watersheds comprised of twelve PRS-selected clones each year. We tested for differences in genotypes, environments, and their interactions for health, height, diameter, and volume from ages one to four years. All trees had optimal health. Mean first-, second-, and third-year volume ranged from 71 ± 26 to 132 ± 39 cm³; 1440 ± 575 to 5765 ± 1132 cm³; and 8826 ± 2646 to 10,530 ± 2110 cm³, respectively. Fourth-year mean annual increment of 2017 buffer group trees ranged from 1.1 ± 0.7 to 7.8 ± 0.5 Mg ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹. We identified generalist varieties with superior establishment across a broad range of buffers (‘DM114’, ‘NC14106’, ‘99038022’, ‘99059016’) and specialist clones uniquely adapted to local soil and climate conditions (‘7300502’, ‘DN5’, ‘DN34’, ‘DN177’, ‘NM2’, ‘NM5’, ‘NM6’). Using generalists and specialists enhances the potential for phytoremediation best management practices that are geographically robust, being regionally designed yet globally relevant. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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18 pages, 2554 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Growth Rates of Poplar Cultivars across Central Asia

by Niels Thevs, Steffen Fehrenz, Kumar Aliev, Begaiym Emileva, Rinat Fazylbekov, Yerzhan Kentbaev, Yodgor Qonunov, Yosumin Qurbonbekova, Nurgul Raissova, Muslim Razhapbaev and Sovietbek Zikirov

Forests 2021, 12(3), 373; https://doi.org/10.3390/f12030373 - 20 Mar 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3126

Abstract

Research Highlights: Despite a long tradition of using poplars as wood source across Central Asia, recent international breeding developments have not penetrated that region yet. This study therefore explored growth performance of 30 local and international poplar cultivars. Background and Objectives: The Central [...] Read more.

Research Highlights: Despite a long tradition of using poplars as wood source across Central Asia, recent international breeding developments have not penetrated that region yet. This study therefore explored growth performance of 30 local and international poplar cultivars. Background and Objectives: The Central Asian countries are forest poor countries, which need to cover the domestic wood demand through costly imports. Therefore, fast growing trees, such as poplars, are gaining increasing attention as option to grow wood domestically. The most common cultivars date back to Soviet Union times. As recent breeding developments have not reached the region, this study aims at investigate the growth performance of a number of newly developed poplar cultivars. Materials and Methods: The investigated cultivars were planted as cuttings across nine sites in Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan between 2018 and 2020. Results: Under warm climate conditions, i.e., low elevations, P. deltoides x nigra hybrids attained highest stem volumes and biomass yields, up to 16.9 t/ha*a after two years, followed by P. nigra xmaximoviczii hybrids. One of the P. deltoides xnigra hybrids reached a tree height of 10.5 m after three years. On higher elevations, e.g., in the Pamirs and in Naryn, P. maximoviczi x trichocarpa hybrids and P. trichocarpa cultivars grew faster than the former hybrids. Conclusions: The cultivars explored in this study should be included into plantations or agroforestry systems that are being established, provided that land users are able to thoroughly control weeds and ensure nutrient and water supply. If sufficient weed control, nutrient supply, or water supply cannot be ensured, then land users should opt for local cultivars (e.g., Mirza Terek) or the P. nigra xmaximoviczii hybrids or P. trichocarpa, in order to avoid failure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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16 pages, 10828 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Natural Drying and Chemical Characteristics of Hybrid Poplar Firewood Produced from Agricultural Bioenergy Buffers in Southern Québec, Canada

by Julien Fortier, Benoit Truax, Daniel Gagnon and France Lambert

Forests 2021, 12(2), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/f12020122 - 23 Jan 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3600

Abstract

Implementing bioenergy buffers on farmland using fast-growing tree species could reduce firewood harvest pressure in woodlots and increase forest connectivity, while improving carbon sequestration, phytoremediation, stream habitats, soil stabilization and hydrological regulation. The objective of the study was to evaluate the natural drying [...] Read more.

Implementing bioenergy buffers on farmland using fast-growing tree species could reduce firewood harvest pressure in woodlots and increase forest connectivity, while improving carbon sequestration, phytoremediation, stream habitats, soil stabilization and hydrological regulation. The objective of the study was to evaluate the natural drying and chemical characteristics of hybrid poplar firewood produced from bioenergy buffers, and to compare these characteristics with those of native species harvested in adjacent woodlots. In Trial A, 110 cm-long unsplit logs (a feedstock for biomass furnaces) were produced to evaluate the effect of log diameter class on firewood quality. In this trial, hybrid poplar firewood characteristics were also compared with Populus tremuloides, Acer rubrum and Fraxinus americana. In Trial B, the effect of hybrid poplar genotype and cover treatment was evaluated on the moisture content of short split logs (40 cm long). Firewood of satisfactory quality was produced on a yearly cycle for short split logs, and on a biannual cycle for long unsplit logs. Covering short split log cords with metal sheeting lowered the final moisture content (from 20.7% to 17.3%) and reduced its variability, while genotype did not significantly affect final moisture content. In Trial A, larger-diameter logs from hybrid poplar had lower element concentrations, but slightly higher moisture content after two years. A two-fold variation in N concentration was observed between diameter classes, suggesting that burning larger poplar logs would minimize atmospheric N pollution. Heating value, carbon and calcium concentrations increased following the seasoning of hybrid poplar firewood. After the first seasoning year outdoors, hybrid poplar had the highest moisture content (33.1%) compared to native species (24.1–29.5%). However, after the second seasoning year in an unheated warehouse, the opposite was observed (14.3% for hybrid poplar vs. 15.0–21.5% for native species). Heating value, carbon and nitrogen concentrations were similar between tree species, while high phosphorus and base cation concentrations characterized hybrid poplar, suggesting higher ash production. Poplar bioenergy buffers could provide a complementary source of firewood for heating in the fall and in the spring, when the heat demand is lower than during cold winter months. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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19 pages, 2013 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nutrient Contribution of Litterfall in a Short Rotation Plantation of Pure or Mixed Plots of Populus alba L. and Robinia pseudoacacia L.

by Isabel González, Hortensia Sixto, Roque Rodríguez-Soalleiro and Nerea Oliveira

Forests 2020, 11(11), 1133; https://doi.org/10.3390/f11111133 - 25 Oct 2020

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2965

Abstract

This study aims to quantify the potential contribution of nutrients derived from leaf litter in a short rotation coppice plantation which includes monocultures of the species Populus alba (PA) and Robina pseudoacacia (RP) as well as a mixture of 50PA:50RP, in the middle [...] Read more.

This study aims to quantify the potential contribution of nutrients derived from leaf litter in a short rotation coppice plantation which includes monocultures of the species Populus alba (PA) and Robina pseudoacacia (RP) as well as a mixture of 50PA:50RP, in the middle of the rotation. The P. alba monoculture was that which provided the most leaf litter (3.37 mg ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹), followed by the 50PA:50RP mixture (2.82 mg ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹) and finally the R. pseudoacacia monoculture (2.55 mg ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹). In addition to producing more litterfall, leaves were shed later in the P. alba monoculture later (December) than in the R. pseudoacacia monoculture (October) or the mix (throughout the fall). In terms of macronutrient supply per hectare, the contributions derived from leaf litter were higher for K, P and Mg in the case of P. alba and for N in R. pseudoacacia, the mix presenting the highest Ca content and intermediate concentrations for the rest of the nutrients. In addition, other factors such as C:N or N:MO ratios, as well as the specific characteristics of the soil, can have an important impact on the final contribution of these inputs. The carbon contribution derived from leaf fall was higher in the P. alba monoculture (1.5 mg ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹), intermediate in the mixed plot (1.3 mg ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹) and slightly lower for the R. pseudoacacia monoculture (1.3 mg ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹). Given these different strategies of monocultures with regard to the dynamism of the main nutrients, species mixing would appear to be suitable option to achieve a potential reduction in mineral fertilization in these plantations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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11 pages, 1796 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Bacterial Canker Disease on Populus × euramericana Caused by Lonsdalea populi in Serbia

by Milica Zlatković, Imola Tenorio-Baigorria, Tamás Lakatos, Tímea Tóth, András Koltay, Predrag Pap, Miroslav Marković and Saša Orlović

Forests 2020, 11(10), 1080; https://doi.org/10.3390/f11101080 - 9 Oct 2020

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4063

Abstract

Populus × euramericana (Dode) Guinier clone (cl.) “I-214” is a fast-growing interspecific hybrid between Eastern cottonwood (P. deltoides Bartr. ex Marsh) and European black poplar (Populus nigra L.). Populus × euramericana was introduced into Serbia in the 1950s and has become [...] Read more.

Populus × euramericana (Dode) Guinier clone (cl.) “I-214” is a fast-growing interspecific hybrid between Eastern cottonwood (P. deltoides Bartr. ex Marsh) and European black poplar (Populus nigra L.). Populus × euramericana was introduced into Serbia in the 1950s and has become one of the most widely grown poplar species. In September 2019, cankers were observed on stems and branches of P. × euramericana cl. “I-214” trees in a two-year-old poplar plantation in the province of Vojvodina, Serbia. The canker tissue was soft and watery, and a colorless fluid that smelled rotten flowed from the cracks in the bark, suggesting possible bacterial disease. After two weeks, diseased trees experienced crown die-back and oozing of foamy, odorous exudates and this study aimed to identify the causal agent of the disease. Canker margins and exudates were collected from 20 symptomatic trees. The associated bacterium was isolated and identified using biochemical characteristics, phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, and multilocus sequence analyses (MLSA) based on partial sequencing of three housekeeping genes (gyrB, infB, and atpD). The pathogen was identified as Lonsdalea populi. Pathogenicity tests were conducted on rooted cuttings of P. × euramericana cl. “I-214” in an environmental test chamber and demonstrated that the isolated bacterial strain was able to reproduce symptoms of softened, water-soaked cankers and exudation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of L. populi causing bacterial canker disease on P. × euramericana cl. “I-214” in Serbia and in southeastern Europe (SEE). It is also the first report of a bacterial disease on hybrid poplars, including P. × euramericana in this country and in SEE. If the disease spreads into new areas, selection for L. populi resistance may need to be integrated into future poplar breeding programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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16 pages, 4612 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biomass Yield of 37 Different SRC Poplar Varieties Grown on a Typical Site in North Eastern Germany

by Dirk Landgraf, Christin Carl and Markus Neupert

Forests 2020, 11(10), 1048; https://doi.org/10.3390/f11101048 - 28 Sep 2020

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3159

Abstract

A total of 37 different poplar varieties were grown in a randomized mini-rotation short rotation coppice (SRC) (harvest every three years) on a light sandy soil under continental climatic conditions in the south of the Federal State of Brandenburg, Germany. Along with well-known [...] Read more.

A total of 37 different poplar varieties were grown in a randomized mini-rotation short rotation coppice (SRC) (harvest every three years) on a light sandy soil under continental climatic conditions in the south of the Federal State of Brandenburg, Germany. Along with well-known poplar varieties, newly bred ones that have not yet been approved for commercial use were selected for this study. Survival rates were determined after the first growing season in 2013 as well as at the first and second harvests in 2015 and 2018. Furthermore, the number of shoots, plant height, diameter at breast height, dry matter content and biomass yield of the varieties were recorded. After the second rotation period, only seven poplar varieties yielded more than 11 t_adm ha⁻¹ y⁻¹ and can be recommended for commercial use. However, many varieties only reached about 8 t_adm ha⁻¹ y⁻¹, and six varieties even had less than 4 t_adm ha⁻¹ y⁻¹, among them newly bred varieties. Given the changing climate conditions, the cultivation of these varieties in SRC is not recommended. Our data also show that the biomass yield of several varieties decreased from the first to the second harvests. Since the survival rates were high and no damage by pest species was observed, the site-specific yield capacities of the individual clones are assumed to be the cause for this. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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12 pages, 2811 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimation of Yield Loss Due to Deer Browsing in a Short Rotation Coppice Willow Plantation in Northern Japan

by Hisanori Harayama, Qingmin Han, Makoto Ishihara, Mitsutoshi Kitao, Akira Uemura, Shozo Sasaki, Takeshi Yamada, Hajime Utsugi and Yutaka Maruyama

Forests 2020, 11(8), 809; https://doi.org/10.3390/f11080809 - 26 Jul 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2760

Abstract

Deer browsing is a major factor causing significant declines in yield in short rotation coppice (SRC) willow, but the resultant yield loss is difficult to estimate because it requires extensive investigation, especially when the standard yield is unknown. We investigated a simple method [...] Read more.

Deer browsing is a major factor causing significant declines in yield in short rotation coppice (SRC) willow, but the resultant yield loss is difficult to estimate because it requires extensive investigation, especially when the standard yield is unknown. We investigated a simple method for estimating yield loss due to deer browsing. We enclosed an experimental SRC willow plantation in Hokkaido, northern Japan, planted with 12 clones, with an electric fence; deer browsing did, however, occur in the first summer of the second harvest cycle. We counted the number of sprouting stems and deer-browsed stems per plant and, after three years, the yield of each clone was analyzed using a generalized linear model with the above two parameters for the numbers of stems as explanatory variables. The model explained the yield of 11 out of the 12 clones, and estimated that browsing of a single stem per plant could reduce yield to 80%. Losses due to deer browsing were estimated to be as much as 6.0 oven dry ton ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹. The potential yield in the absence of deer browsing ranged from 2.2 to 7.5 oven dry ton ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹ among clones, and was significantly positively correlated with the estimated yield loss due to deer browsing. Our results suggest that a generalized linear model can be used to estimate the yield loss due to deer browsing from a simple survey, and deer browsing could significantly reduce willow biomass yield from the clones we studied, and thus countermeasures to control deer browsing are therefore necessary if sufficient willow biomass yield is to be produced. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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10 pages, 1702 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intensive Mechanical Site Preparation to Establish Short Rotation Hybrid Poplar Plantations—A Case-Study in Québec, Canada

by Nelson Thiffault, Raed Elferjani, François Hébert, David Paré and Pierre Gagné

Forests 2020, 11(7), 785; https://doi.org/10.3390/f11070785 - 21 Jul 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3270

Abstract

Because they generate more wood per area and time, short rotation plantations are likely to play an increasing role in meeting the global increase in the demand for wood fiber. To be successful, high-yield plantations require costly intensive silviculture regimes to ensure the [...] Read more.

Because they generate more wood per area and time, short rotation plantations are likely to play an increasing role in meeting the global increase in the demand for wood fiber. To be successful, high-yield plantations require costly intensive silviculture regimes to ensure the survival and maximize yields. While hybrid poplar (Populus spp.) is frequently used in intensive, short rotation forestry, it is particularly sensitive to competition and resource levels. Mechanical site preparation is thus of great importance to create microsites that provide sufficient light levels and adequate soil water and nutrient availability. We conducted an experiment in Québec (Canada) to compare two intensive site preparation treatments commonly used to establish hybrid poplar. We compared the effects of double-blade site preparation (V-blade), mounding and a control on hybrid poplar growth and nutritional status four growing seasons after planting on recently harvested forested sites. We also evaluated the effects of site preparation and planted poplar on inorganic soil N. Our results confirmed general positive effects of site preparation on the early growth of hybrid poplar clones. After four growing seasons, survival was higher in the mounding treatment (99%) than in the V-blade (91%) and the control (48%). Saplings planted in the V-blade and in the mounding treatments had mean diameters that were respectively 91% and 155% larger than saplings planted in the control plots. Saplings were 68% taller in the mounding treatment than the control plots, but differences between the V-blade and controls were not significant. We did not detect significant effects of site preparation or the presence of planted hybrid poplar on soil inorganic N. Sapling foliar nutrient concentrations were not influenced by the site preparation treatments. Based on these results, mounding appears to be a good management approach to establish hybrid poplar plantations under the ecological conditions we have studied, as it is less likely to cause erosion because of the localized nature of the treatment. However, these environmental benefits need to be balanced against economic and social considerations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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11 pages, 2758 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High Biomass Productivity of Short-Rotation Willow Plantation in Boreal Hokkaido Achieved by Mulching and Cutback

by Qingmin Han, Hisanori Harayama, Akira Uemura, Eriko Ito, Hajime Utsugi, Mitsutoshi Kitao and Yutaka Maruyama

Forests 2020, 11(5), 505; https://doi.org/10.3390/f11050505 - 1 May 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2710

Abstract

Weed control, which is commonly achieved by herbicides, is important in successfully establishing short-rotation coppice (SRC) of willow. In this study, we examined agricultural mulch film as a means of effective weed control and the influence of cutback practice (coppicing the first year’s [...] Read more.

Weed control, which is commonly achieved by herbicides, is important in successfully establishing short-rotation coppice (SRC) of willow. In this study, we examined agricultural mulch film as a means of effective weed control and the influence of cutback practice (coppicing the first year’s shoot growth in the winter following planting) on biomass production in boreal Hokkaido, Japan. One-year-old cuttings from two clones each of Salix pet-susu and S. sachalinensis were planted in double-rows at a density of 20,000 plants ha⁻¹. All plants were harvested three growing seasons after cutback. Average oven-dried biomass yield was 5.67 t ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹ with mulching, whereas it was 0.46 t ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹ in the unmulched control with a weed biomass of 4.13 t ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹, indicating that mulching was an effective weed control. However, weeds grew vigorously on the ground between mulch sheets and their dry biomass amounted to 0.87 t ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹. Further weeding between the mulch sheets enhanced the willow biomass yield to 10.70 t ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹ in the treatment with cutback. In contrast, cutback even reduced the willow yield when there were weeds between the mulch sheets. This negative effect of cutback on the willow yield resulted from nutrient competition with weeds; there was similar leaf nitrogen content and dry biomass per unit land area for the weeds and willows combined in the control and mulching treatments. These results suggest that growing SRC willow is feasible in boreal Hokkaido if combined with complete weed control and cutback, and is facilitated by using mulch film. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

43 pages, 2236 KiB

Open AccessReview

Poplar Short Rotation Coppice Plantations under Mediterranean Conditions: The Case of Spain

by Nerea Oliveira, César Pérez-Cruzado, Isabel Cañellas, Roque Rodríguez-Soalleiro and Hortensia Sixto

Forests 2020, 11(12), 1352; https://doi.org/10.3390/f11121352 - 17 Dec 2020

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 5414

Abstract

Developing a circular bioeconomy based on the sustainable use of biological resources, such as biomass, seems to be the best way of responding to the challenges associated with global change. Among the many sources, short rotation forest crops are an essential instrument for [...] Read more.

Developing a circular bioeconomy based on the sustainable use of biological resources, such as biomass, seems to be the best way of responding to the challenges associated with global change. Among the many sources, short rotation forest crops are an essential instrument for obtaining quality biomass with a predictable periodicity and yield, according to the areas of cultivation. This review aims to provide an overview of available knowledge on short rotation coppice Populus spp. plantations under Mediterranean conditions and specifically in Spain, in order to identify not only the status, but also the future prospects, for this type of biomass production. The analysis of available information was conducted by taking into consideration the following aspects: Genetic plant material; plantation design, including densities, rotation lengths and the number of rotations, and mixtures; management activities, including irrigation, fertilization, and weed control; yield prediction; biomass characterization; and finally, an evaluation of the sustainability of the plantation and ecosystem services provided. Despite advances, there is still much to be done if these plantations are to become a commercial reality in some Mediterranean areas. To achieve this aim, different aspects need to be reconsidered, such as irrigation, bearing in mind that water restrictions represent a real threat; the specific adaptation of genetic material to these conditions, in order to obtain a greater efficiency in resource use, as well as a greater resistance to pests and diseases or tolerance to abiotic stresses such as drought and salinity; rationalizing fertilization; quantifying and valuing the ecosystem services; the advance of more reliable predictive models based on ecophysiology; the specific characterization of biomass for its final use (bioenergy/bioproducts); technological improvements in management and harvesting; and finally, improving the critical aspects detected in environmental, energy, and economic analyses to achieve profitable and sustainable plantations under Mediterranean conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Growth and Development of Short Rotation Woody Crops for Rural and Urban Applications)

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