D3072: Sensitivity of different fast-growing willow genotypes in Quebec to regional, temporal and spatial variables

The production of fast-growing willows (FGW) is becoming increasingly popular in Quebec due to high bioenergy yields and their use in phytoremediation. However, this crop is threatened by the presence of insect pests that damage plant health. These damages vary in form and intensity and depend directly on the presence and diversity of insect pests. To minimize this constraint, it is necessary to better understand the sensitivity of the different FGW genotypes used to be able to select the most resistant ones, as well as the the environmental constraints that may impact resistance. Through visual observations, this study aims to determine which FGW genotypes are the most resistant to insect damage and how susceptibility varies according to regions (climatic conditions) and time (months). The results obtained suggest that the susceptibility of FGW varies only for certain genotypes, and that it depends mainly on timing and region. These two variables directly influence the ambient temperature and thus the life cycle and presence of insect pests that inflict different types of damage to the plants. Cultivars and plot block effect appear to have indirect effects that are too small to be detected for the general damage types found in this study. This knowledge will allow FGW growers to know which genotypes are best suited for phytoremediation and maximum yield.