Journal Article
Use of willow (Salix sp) biomass as tree fodder: nutritional value and conservation methods
Sonia Pereira-Crespo; Pilar Gago; Adrián Botana; Marcos Veiga; Juan Castro; Laura González; María del Pilar Martínez-Diz; César Resch; Dalia A. Plata-Reyes; Roberto Lorenzana; Gonzalo Flores-Calvete
Agroforestry Systems · Vol. 100, Issue 4 · 2026
Abstract
This study evaluated the nutritional value and different methods of conservation of two willow materials—the hybrid clone Terra Nova (HTN) from a short‑rotation coppice (SRC) system and the native Salix atrocinerea (SAT) from riparian stand—representing contrasting willow resources available in the study region. The leaf fraction (LE)—although representing 5.0 in untreated silages). Willow leaf silages achieved CP levels of 18–22% DM (up to 27.8% in HTN with additive), while fermentation intensity remained low; SAT leaves showed a higher fermentability coefficient (44 vs. 28), consistent with better acidification. The HTN material proved suitable as a protein supplement for moderate‑energy diets, whereas SAT was limited to maintenance‑level feeding. Willow forage shows notable potential as a supplemental fodder resource for ruminant systems, although effective preservation requires additive use to maintain nutritional quality during storage. Graphical abstract