This Practice Note reviews existing knowledge and gives guidance on site selection and preparation, plantation design, planting, weed control, crop management, pest management and yield for short rotation coppice plantations of willow and poplar grown as sources of renewable energy. Comprehensive references are included should readers require more information. Applicants to DEFRA’s Energy Crop Scheme should also read Growing short rotation coppice available from DEFRA and ADAS offices.
Please note that this revised edition replaces the previous version published in August 1999.