Conversion of substitute tree species stands and pure spruce stands in the Ore Mountains in saxony

Abstract

The original natural forest ecosystems of the Ore Mountains (Norway spruce, silver fir, and beech forests) have been destroyed by overcropping since the 11th century. In the 19th 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 the Ore Mountains. 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.