J. For. Sci., 2005, 51(11):519-525 | DOI: 10.17221/4584-JFS

Conversion of substitute tree species stands and pure spruce stands in theOreMountains inSaxony- A Report

S. Hering, S. Irrgang

Landesforstpräsidium, Department of Silviculture, Central Forestry Department of Saxony, Graupa, Germany

The original natural forest ecosystems of the OreMountains(Norway spruce, silver fir, and beech forests) have been destroyed by overcropping since the 11^th century. In the 19^th century spruce afforestations on large areas were intended to meet the steadily increasing demand for timber. They led to the introduction of planned forestry by building up spruce age-class forests. Efforts of a few forest specialists to establish an ecologically adapted silviculture failed before long due to economic necessities. The paper presents the results of a complex experimental plot system aiming at the forest conversion in theOreMountains. Answers are given particularly to problems of the upper stand treatment for regeneration and of appropriate ways of soil preparation and planting. A network of forest climate stations and a broad variety of ecophysiological and yield investigations provide the basis for conclusions on light, temperature, soil, and water demand by regenerated tree species.

Keywords: substitute tree species stands; pure spruce stands; species composition conversion; Ore Mountains Mts.;Germany

Published: November 30, 2005  Show citation