UK Silphie for Biogas Energy Systems

What is Silphie?

Silphie is a giant, yellow-bloom form of the common daisy plant that originates from North America. It is a perennial that comes up each year for approximately two decades without needing to be replanted.

 

The Silphie is a highly attractive substitute for maize as it has a similarly high yield and benefits the soil. Besides that, it requires significantly fewer doses of fertilizer and pesticides and is, therefore, less likely to cause soil erosion.  

​

The Cultivation Process 

One of the most important factors during the cultivation process is the optimal preparation of the seedbed by either mechanical or chemical treatment. This minimises competition from unwanted, wild plants. Since Silphie only forms a ground rosette during the first growing season and no yield is generated, it is recommended to establish it as a maize substitute. The maize is sown less densely so that the Silphie is exposed to enough sunlight. After the maize harvest in the first year, the Silphie will stay put and can be harvested in the second year.