Afforestation suitability and production potential of five tree species on abandoned farmland in response to climate change, Czech Republic

Keymessage Populus nigra and Picea abies achieved the largest standing volume at 50 years of age in basalt mountainous sites in Central Europe, but they also present the highest risk in the case of rising temperature and drought extremes. The most climatically resistant tree species were Larix decidua and Alnus glutinosa, which had a lower productivity in the current conditions. Based on carbon sequestration, growth, and damage rate, a revision of selected tree species capable of fulfilling production and non-production functions of the forest in the setting of global climate change was performed. Stands of Norway spruce, European larch, sycamore maple, black alder, and black poplar on abandoned farmland in the Doupovske hory Mts., Czech Republic, were analyzed. At about 52 years of age, spruce had the significantly highest average stand volume (417 m(3) ha(-1)), while the highest carbon sequestration in tree biomass was found in poplar (169 t ha(-1)). On the contrary, maple showed the lowest average stand volume (183 m(3) ha(-1)) and the amount of carbon (90 t ha(-1)). While maple radial increment was mostly negatively influenced by precipitation, the growth of spruce and poplar generally correlated positively (r = 0.26-0.33) with precipitation. For other tree species, the correlation was non-significant. Alder and larch were the most robust to climate factors, while the most climate-sensitive tree species was maple in relation to radial growth. The lowest tree damage was observed in alder (8% trees of the same species were damaged) and maple (9%). Larch (36%) and poplar (51%) differed from the previous two, due to many breaks, while the most damage was confirmed in spruce (74%) because of bark stripping and rot. The establishment of mixed stands of spruce with larch and maple may be regarded as a climate-smart silvicultural approach with clear environmental and economic benefits. On sites with high groundwater levels, poplar and alder represent a feasible alternative.

Automated summary

Black poplar and Norway spruce are the most productive tree species in basalt mountainous sites in Central Europe, but they are also the most vulnerable to rising temperatures and drought. European larch and black alder are more climate-resistant, but they have lower productivity. A revision of selected tree species based on carbon sequestration, growth, and damage rate is needed in the context of global climate change.