Cluster reforestation near the timber line

Abstract

Plantation of spruce in clusters (small collectives with 20-30 individuals with dense spacing) was realized on a small clear-cut and under the forest stand near the timber line in the Krkonoše Mts. in 1993. Gaps among the collectives were planted with dwarf pine and rowan. The height of trees aged 16 years occurring in centres of the small collectives is greater than trees growing on their edges. Lower height growth of underplantings is affected more by the stand shelter than by the position of individuals within collectives. Health status of plantations is comparable on both plots. Tree samples (spruce, dwarf pine) from the underplanting had lower weight and different biomass distribution than samples from clear-cut, samples with different positions in the collectives on clear-cut also differed. Original stand succeeded in keeping its favourable health condition in spite of the occurrence of individually dying trees.