Growth, forest floor, and soil chemical analysis comparison between two management practices in chestnut forests of Greece

The effects of management mode and intensity both on growth parameters (diameter and height of sprouts) and soil fertility were studied in experimental plots in coppice chestnut forests of Athos and Pelion mountains - Greece. The empirical management practice applied in Athos is intensive with a rotation period every 20-22 years, including removal of timber products during selective loggings and final clear-cut loggings. The management type applied in Pelion by the Forest Service is more flexible (much longer rotation period) with remaining in situ of plant residues. The soils of both areas were originated by the same parent material (gneiss), they have loamy texture, similar bulk density values, and they are acidic. Higher values of diameter and height of sprouts were observed in Athos compared to Pelion (statistically significant differences). Pelion soils presented higher levels of soil fertility, i.e., in forest floor higher organic matter and nutrients content (significant differences for P, Ca, Na, Cu, and Mn), and in soil higher levels of N, Ca, Na, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn and organic matter (significant differences for N, Cu, Mn, and organic matter). The findings of this work could be an important tool to the perspective of chestnut forests management practices.