Deploying genotypes in short-rotation plantations: Mixtures and pure cultures of clones and species

Abstract

This article discusses factors to be considered when choosing among alternative deployment options for species and clones in short-rotation plantations. Several examples of pure and mixed culture are presented and potential benefits and problems are described. The article is based on a paper presented to the International Energy Agency's Committee on Biomass Production Systems which met in conjunction with the International Poplar Commission at Zaragoza, Spain, in September 1992. Key words: biomass, intensive culture, productivity, nitrogen fixation, hazards, silviculture, operational considerations, hybrids, Populus, Alnus, Eucalyptus, Albizia.