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| Hauptseite > Publikationsdatenbank > Establishing willow on nutrient-poor, marginal sandy substrates employing tailored fertilization strategies |
| Hauptseite > Publikationsdatenbank > Establishing willow on nutrient-poor, marginal sandy substrates employing tailored fertilization strategies |
| Poster (After Call) | FZJ-2026-02634 |
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2026
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Please use a persistent id in citations: doi:10.34734/FZJ-2026-02634
Abstract: Within the framework of a circular bioeconomy, ensuring a reliable and sustainable supply of plant-based biomass remains a key objective. A major constraint in this context is the productive utilization of marginal lands characterized by low fertility, poor structure, and limited agricultural value. In particular, sandy substrates with low organic matter and weak water and nutrient retention pose significant challenges for plant establishment and growth.To address these limitations, the “Marginal Field Lab” was established in the Rhenish opencast mining region. This large-scale research platform investigates the performance of selected biomass crops, with soil amendments and alternative fertilizers under those marginal conditions, with a specific focus on the amelioration of nutrient-poor sandy substrates and associated plant performance. Previous findings have demonstrated that short-rotation coppice (SRC) systems with willow (Salix spp.) represent a promising option for such environments, as they enable biomass production while contributing to land restoration and sustainable land use.The present study focuses on the establishment of two willow species, Salix viminalis L. and Salix alba L. which are suitable for growing on marginal lands, evaluating their rooting capacity, early establishment success, and initial growth performance. The experimental design compares tailored fertilization strategies based on organic residues and mineral fertilizers. In particular, digestates obtained as a residual product from biogas production are assessed as organic amendments in comparison to mineral NPK fertilizers, applied at rates equivalent to 50, 100 and 200 kg N ha⁻¹. Fertilization was implemented via strip-till as localized underfoot placement at approximately 20 cm depth.The research is embedded in a broader framework targeting biomass production from fast-growing perennial crops while simultaneously addressing soil rehabilitation, carbon sequestration, and renewable energy value chains. Willow-based SRC systems have been shown to improve soil properties and support microbial activity over time, thereby contributing to ecosystem restoration processes.Preliminary results suggest that digestate-based fertilization enhances early plant performance compared to mineral fertilization, likely due to improved soil moisture retention and gradual nutrient release. These findings underline the importance of site-adapted management strategies for successful crop establishment on marginal sandy soils.This contribution to EUBCE 2026 aims to further develop the Marginal Field Lab within the AgronInnoLab initiative and to stimulate scientific exchange on sustainable biomass production systems on marginal lands.
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