ALBERT

Beschreibung:    The survival and development of Liaodong oak ( Quercus liaotungensis Koidz) stump sprouts were studied for 6 years under leave-tree, as well as 60 and 75% crown closure uniform shelterwood in the Huanglong Mountains of China. Stump sprout survival rate, number of sprouts, and sprout height under the three partial harvests during the first year post-harvest did not differ. Six years post-harvest, 78.32% of the stumps had living sprouts. No variation in sprout survival was found among the treatments throughout the study period. The number of living sprouts per stump was 13.77 ± 0.50 in the first growing season after harvest, and dropped to 6.49 ± 0.22 after 6 years. This result indicated the occurrence of self-thinning within the sprout clumps. Moreover, the height of dominant sprout increased from 52.88 ± 1.62 cm (in the first year) to 132.82 ± 2.35 cm (in the sixth year) post-harvest. Sprout height in the leave-tree harvest type was higher than those in the two shelterwoods in the fifth and sixth years after logging. Annual height growth was approximately 8–96 cm during the first growing season, and then decreased at a rate of 1–44 cm per year in the following years. A negative relationship was found between sprout height and the number of sprouts per stump. This result indicated a trade-off between the number of sprouts and height growth. The number of sprouts per stump decreased by about 0.2 stem for each 1 m 2 /ha increased in residual basal area. Therefore, sprouting may play an important role in the restoration of the secondary forest after harvesting. Content Type Journal Article Category Report Pages 1-12 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9299-z Authors Li Rong, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, 712100 China Zhang Wenhui, Key Laboratory of Environment and Ecology of Education Ministry in West China, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, 712100 China He Jingfeng, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, 712100 China Zhou Jianyun, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, 712100 China Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Economic pressures have driven an ever-widening period during which foresters use machines to plant Scots pine ( Pinus sylvestris L.) seedlings. In Fennoscandia, this period has recently stretched to the entire growing season. To evaluate the performance of seedlings planted during this extended period, three experiments were carried out in Central and Northern Finland over 2 years. One-year-old and current-year seedlings were planted in mounds or disc-trenched furrows when soil temperatures were 〉0°C. When 1-year-old seedlings grown for spring planting and overwintered outdoors were planted after mid-June, more needles browned and growth was reduced, possibly because seedlings were oversized with respect to planting density and the volume of growth media. When current-year seedlings sown in spring were planted from July to November, those planted in late September and October grew less in later years than those planted earlier, but survival was unaffected. No large differences in field performance were found with respect to whether seedlings were planted in mounds or disc-trenched furrows. In conclusion, Scots pine seedlings can be machine planted in mounds or furrows during May and early June (later in the North) and then continued from early August until late September, provided climatic conditions in late spring and early autumn are typical and similar to those experienced in Central Finland. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-16 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9307-y Authors Jaana Luoranen, Finnish Forest Research Institute, Suonenjoki Research Unit, Juntintie 154, 77600 Suonenjoki, Finland Risto Rikala, Finnish Forest Research Institute, Suonenjoki Research Unit, Juntintie 154, 77600 Suonenjoki, Finland Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Genetic improvement of Eucalyptus genotypes for drought and frost resistance is essential for successful intensive management of commercial plantations. Understanding the physiological mechanisms that relate water use and frost resistance for highly deployed genotypes may allow for better prediction of their future performance, genetic selection and seedling management for site specific purposes. We studied whether instantaneous water use efficiency ( WUE i ) may serve as drought, freezing and photoinhibition tolerance predictor by studying its response on six E. globulus clones (Eg1–Eg6) and four E. globulus  ×  E. nitens hybrid seedlings (Egn1–Egn4) under drought and irrigated (control) treatments. Net photosynthesis ( A ) and transpiration ( E ) were studied using a gas exchange system in order to calculate WUE i ( A / E ). Simultaneous chlorophyll a fluorescence measurements were performed to assess the non photochemical quenching components. Frost tolerance of plants under control and drought treatments were evaluated by measuring temperatures that exert 50% photoinactivation of photosystem II. Finally, drought tolerance was evaluated by plant survival within each genotype after rehydration. Our results showed significant genotype variability in the rate of soil and xylem water potential decrease during drought. While most of the genotypes reached −4.0 MPa in about 35 days of drought, genotypes Eg6 and Egn4 required 56 days of drought to reach this xylem water potential. WUE i exhibited significant differences among genotypes and irrigation treatments. Genotypes Eg5 and Egn4 increased their WUE i between 70 and 80% after drought. This was associated with a more conservative control of water loss at the stomatal level combined with maintenance of relatively higher rates of net photosynthesis than the other genotypes under drought conditions. Plants exposed to drought were more freezing tolerant than control plants, having in average 3°C lower LT 50 than well irrigated ones. There was no a clear correlation between WUE i and drought tolerance or drought-induced photoinhibition, however WUE i was inversely correlated with LT 50 . Our results suggest that WUE i is not suitable by itself to select drought tolerant genotypes, but may provide evidence for discarding drought sensitive genotypes. In addition, it could provide valuable information to select for freezing tolerance. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-16 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9305-0 Authors Darío Navarrete-Campos, Facultad de Ciencias Forestales, Universidad de Concepción, Casilla 160-C, Correo 3, Concepción, Chile León A. Bravo, Laboratorio de Fisiología y Biología Molecular Vegetal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias y Forestales, Departamento de Ciencias Agronómicas y Recursos Naturales, Universidad de La Frontera, Av. Francisco Salazar, 01145 Temuco, Chile Rafael A. Rubilar, Facultad de Ciencias Forestales, Universidad de Concepción, Casilla 160-C, Correo 3, Concepción, Chile Verónica Emhart, Forestal Mininco S.A., Avenida Alemana 751, Los Ángeles, Chile Rebeca Sanhueza, Seed Production Technologies S.A., Quillota, Chile Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    The Forestry Commission of Zimbabwe initiated a hybrid breeding program of Eucalyptus grandis with E. tereticornis (G × T) and E. camaldulensis (G × C) in order to provide suitable genotypes for planting in areas that are marginal for E. grandis in terms of drought and frost. A total of seven hybrid trials were established at four sites, representative of low to medium rainfall. The female parents were from E. grandis preselected for superior volume production. No pure species were included in the trials to act as controls and allow for estimation of hybrid vigour. Survival, growth and stem straightness were assessed at 18 and 43 months from planting. Survival was generally above 80% for all hybrids across sites. G × C hybrids performed better than G × T hybrids, showing a 20% difference in mean height at 43 months. Female and male variances were generally insignificant ( P  〉 0.05) and in some cases, the estimates were 0. This was not unexpected, as the parents for the hybrids were preselected for superior height, diameter at breast height (DBH) and volume production as pure species. Ratio of dominance to phenotypic variance ( ^ d   2   ) was significant for all traits for all hybrids ( P  〈 0.05). Trait–trait dominance correlations ( r D ) at 43 months between height and DBH were generally large and positive, above 0.6. Type-B dominance correlation ( r BD ) suggested evidence of genotype-by-environment interaction (G × E), but one high elevation site contributed most to the observed G × E. If these results are confirmed in larger mating designs with progeny established on multiple sites, it seems that the most appropriate breeding strategy for E. grandis  ×  E. tereticornis and E. grandis  ×  E. camaldulensis hybrids may be one that exploits both additive and dominance genetic variance, such as the reciprocal recurrent selection (RRS) scheme or RRS with forward selection. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-22 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9302-8 Authors Tasiyiwa Madhibha, Forest Research Centre, Forestry Commission, P.O. Box HG595, Highlands, Harare, Zimbabwe Ruramai Murepa, Forest Research Centre, Forestry Commission, P.O. Box HG595, Highlands, Harare, Zimbabwe Cossy Musokonyi, 17 Clarence Street, Macquarie Fields, NSW 2564, Australia Washington Gapare, CSIRO Plant Industry, GPO Box 1600, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Forest plantations in the northeastern United States comprise a small proportion of the total forest area. Most plantations are typically softwood dominated and managed for sawlog and pulpwood production, while high-yield hardwood plantations for bioenergy feedstocks have not been as widely investigated. The objective of this study was to compare the biomass production of planted white spruce ( Picea glauca (Moench) Voss) and hybrid poplar ( Populus spp.) plantations (four clones) in monoculture, and in mixture of the two on a typical reforestation site in Maine. Three years following planting, hybrid poplar height and ground line diameter growth rates began to diverge among clones, and by 6 years, the Populus nigra  ×  Populus maximowiczii (NM6) clone clearly outperformed three Populus deltoides  ×  Populus nigra clones (D51, DN10 and DN70) both in pure stands and in mixtures with white spruce. In mixture, we found the yield of white spruce to decline as the yield of hybrid poplar increased. Overall, yields of white spruce monocultures were comparable to those reported in eastern Canada, while the hybrid poplar biomass yields were substantially lower than those reported from studies on abandoned agricultural lands, likely due to the harsher soil conditions at our site. The dominance of rocky and poorly drained sites (like the one tested in this study) across Maine will likely limit the feasibility of widespread hybrid poplar plantations, and thus constrains their potential use as a bioenergy feedstock. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-16 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9296-2 Authors A. S. Nelson, School of Forest Resources, University of Maine, 5755 Nutting Hall, Orono, ME 04469-5755, USA M. R. Saunders, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University, 715 W. State St., West Lafayette, IN 47907-2061, USA R. G. Wagner, School of Forest Resources, University of Maine, 5755 Nutting Hall, Orono, ME 04469-5755, USA A. R. Weiskittel, School of Forest Resources, University of Maine, 5755 Nutting Hall, Orono, ME 04469-5755, USA Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Poor seed germination is a significant problem for propagation of teak and it particularly hampers the deployment of genetically improved material into plantations. Seed dormancy is the putative cause for delayed and sporadic germination of teak seed but specific dormancy mechanisms have not been proven. In this paper we investigate whether physical or mechanical dormancy could affect teak germination. Physical dormancy was disproved when we observed water in every examined locule of fruit which had been immersed for 12–24 h ( n  = 1,700 fruits from six diverse sources). Mechanical dormancy was found to affect teak seed germination by means of valve structures which must open for the radicle to emerge. All 1,450 germinating seeds in 16 samples emerged from the endocarp via the detachment of a valve. Germination over 16 days was compared between extracted seeds (ex situ) and seeds within their endocarp (in situ) to determine the effect of mechanical dormancy on germination. Significantly greater germination of the ex situ seeds (62 ± 2% SE; n  = 486) than of the in situ seeds (32 ± 2% SE; n  = 564) indicated that mechanical dormancy is an important factor in the poor germination of teak. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9298-0 Authors Nigel J. Slator, School of Environmental Science and Management, Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, Lismore, NSW 2480, Australia Andrew N. Callister, Department of Forest and Ecosystem Science, The University of Melbourne, Water Street, Creswick, 3363 Australia J. Doland Nichols, School of Environmental Science and Management, Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, Lismore, NSW 2480, Australia Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    To test how efficiently plantations and seed orchards captured genetic diversity from natural Anatolian black pine ( Pinus nigra Arnold subspecies pallasiana Holmboe) seed stands, seed sources were chosen from 3 different categories (seed stands (SS), seed orchards (SO) and plantations (P)) comprising 4 different breeding zones of the species in Turkey. Twenty-five trees (mother trees) were selected from each SS, SO and P seed sources and were screened with 11 Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. Estimated genetic diversity parameters were found to be generally high in all Anatolian black pine seed sources and the majority of genetic diversity is contained within seed sources (94%). No significant difference in genetic diversity parameters (numbers of effective alleles, % of polymorphic loci and heterozygosity) among seed source categories was found, except for a slight increase in observed heterozygosities in seed orchards. For all seed source categories, observed heterozygosity values were higher (H o  = 0.49 for SS, 0.55 for SO and 0.49 for P) than expected ones (H e  = 0.40 for SS, 0.39 for SO and 0.38 for P) indicating the excess of heterozygotes. In general, genetic diversity in seed stands has been transferred successfully into seed orchards and plantations. However, the use of seeds from seed orchards can increase the amount of genetic diversity in plantations further. The study also demonstrated that number of plus-tree clones (25–38) used in the establishment of seed orchards was adequate to capture the high level of diversity from natural stands. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9282-8 Authors Burcu Çengel, Forest Tree Seeds and Tree Breeding Research Directorate, Gazi, 06560 Ankara, Turkey Yasemin Tayanç, Forest Tree Seeds and Tree Breeding Research Directorate, Gazi, 06560 Ankara, Turkey Gaye Kandemir, Forest Tree Seeds and Tree Breeding Research Directorate, Gazi, 06560 Ankara, Turkey Ercan Velioglu, Forest Tree Seeds and Tree Breeding Research Directorate, Gazi, 06560 Ankara, Turkey Murat Alan, Forest Tree Seeds and Tree Breeding Research Directorate, Gazi, 06560 Ankara, Turkey Zeki Kaya, Department of Biological Sciences, Middle East Technical University, 06531 Ankara, Turkey Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    The financial viability of using improved seed material of Scots pine was assessed in Finnish conditions. Based on a few dozen field trials, a range of genetic gains for height growth was incorporated into a stand simulator. Technically genetic gain was modelled into individual growth models by applying the Chapman-Richards type function and using genetic gain estimates as asymptotic scaling parameters. Stand projections, including the effect of genetic gain, were further converted into monetary terms by calculating bare land values, i.e. BLVs according to the Faustman rotation model. Following this, the financial attractiveness of using improved seed material from Scots pine was determined by comparing the BLVs between stands with and without genetic gain. The study focused on the private forest owner’s point of view, reflecting the primary demand conditions for improved seed material. Comparisons between BLVs indicated that using improved seed material of Scots pine would be financially viable for private forest owners in most parts of Finland, the discount rate being 3%. The main results were robust, with pertinent changes in silvicultural costs and stumpage prices. This study demonstrates the need for financial analysis in decision-making in the context of regeneration material. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-14 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9284-6 Authors A. Ahtikoski, Finnish Forest Research Institute, Northern Finland Regional Unit, Eteläranta 55, 96300 Rovaniemi, Finland R. Ojansuu, Finnish Forest Research Institute, Southern Finland Regional Unit, Jokiniemenkuja 1, PO Box 18, 01301 Vantaa, Finland M. Haapanen, Finnish Forest Research Institute, Southern Finland Regional Unit, Jokiniemenkuja 1, PO Box 18, 01301 Vantaa, Finland J. Hynynen, Finnish Forest Research Institute, Southern Finland Regional Unit, Jokiniemenkuja 1, PO Box 18, 01301 Vantaa, Finland K. Kärkkäinen, Finnish Forest Research Institute, Northern Finland Regional Unit, Kirkkosaarentie 7, 91500 Muhos, Finland Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Estimation of accurate biomass of different forest components is important to estimate their contribution to total carbon stock. There is lack of allometric equations for biomass estimation of woody species at sapling stage in tropical dry forest (TDF), and therefore, the carbon stored in this forest component is ignored. We harvested 46 woody species at sapling stage in a TDF and developed regression models for the biomass estimation of foliage, branch, bole and the total aboveground part. For foliage and branch biomass, the models with only stem diameter as estimator showed greater R 2 . For bole and aboveground biomass, the models including wood specific gravity or wood density exhibited higher R 2 than those without wood density. Also, the model consisting of wood density, stem diameter and height had the lowest standard error of estimate for bole and aboveground biomass. Moreover, the R 2 values are very similar among models for each component. The measurement error of height and the use of a standard value of wood density together may introduce more than 2 % error into the models. Therefore, we suggest using diameter-only model, which may be more practical and equally accurate when applied to stands outside our study area. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9359-z Authors R. K. Chaturvedi, Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005 India A. S. Raghubanshi, Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005 India Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    The field survival of Pinus patula seedlings in South Africa is frequently below acceptable standards. From numerous studies it has been determined that this is largely due to the pitch canker fungus, Fusarium circinatum . Other commercial pines, such as P. elliottii and P. taeda , show good tolerance to this pathogen and better survival, but have inferior wood properties and do not grow as well as P. patula on many sites in the summer rainfall regions of South Africa. There is, thus, an urgent need to improve the tolerance of P. patula to F. circinatum . Operational experience indicates that when P. patula is hybridized with tolerant species, such as P. tecunumanii and P. oocarpa , survival is greatly improved on the warmer sites of South Africa. Field studies on young trees suggest that this is due to the improved tolerance of these hybrids to F. circinatum . In order to test the tolerance of a number of pine hybrids, the pure species representing the hybrid parents, as well as individual families of P. patula  ×  P. tecunumanii , a series of greenhouse screening trials were conducted during 2008 and 2009. The results indicated that species range in tolerance and hybrids, between P. patula and these species, are intermediate in tolerance to F. circinatum . Within P. patula  ×  P. tecunumanii , large family variation exists when pollen from the high elevation source of P. tecunumanii is used. The results of these studies illustrate the importance of developing pine hybrid breeding programs to overcome the susceptibility of our pure species to pathogens such as F. circinatum . Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-14 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9355-3 Authors R. G. Mitchell, York Timbers, Sabie, South Africa M. J. Wingfield, Forests and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa G. R. Hodge, Camcore, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, USA E. T. Steenkamp, Forests and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa T. A. Coutinho, Forests and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    The Australian hardwood plantation estate has significantly expanded in the last decade. Key production issues included: (1) will Eucalyptus nitens Maiden seedlings produced in nurseries on relatively mild sites be susceptible to transplant shock and browsing on cold out-planting sites and can this be managed? And; (2) what specifications should be required of nursery producers for Eucalyptus globulus Labill seedlings for out-planting on mild ex-pasture sites? This review outlines the research conducted in order to address these key questions. Nitrogen deprivation in the nursery induced accumulation of foliar anthocyanin which conferred hardiness to low temperature. Target specifications of 8–10 g/kg foliar nitrogen are recommended. Height of 〉120 mm, root collar diameter 〉2.8 mm, seedling container volume of ≥85 cm 3 , depth of ≥73 mm, density of ≥549 cells/m 2 and foliar nitrogen concentration of 15–20 g/kg were found to be key specifications for optimal E. globulus growth following planting onto mild ex-pasture sites. Exponential nutrient loading was a useful technique for attaining target foliar N concentrations. Seedling size was found not to affect growth of E. globulus post-planting on mild ex-pasture sites. However, large seedlings were preferentially browsed on high vertebrate-browse-pressure sites in Tasmania (poisons are banned and shooting is not effective on some sites) that did not affect subsequent growth rate but did increase the incidence of double-leaders. The ‘target seedling concept’ is applicable to eucalypts for Australian planting sites: specifications attained in the nursery should be matched to the factors limiting growth on the planting sites. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9321-0 Authors Dugald C. Close, Perennial Horticulture Centre, Tasmanian Institute of Agricultural Research, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 98, Hobart, TAS 7001, Australia Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Newly planted seedlings incur transplant stress resulting from poor root-soil contact, which limits access to soil moisture and nutrients and reduces growth for one or more growing seasons. Controlled release fertilizer (CRF) applied at planting may reduce transplant stress by augmenting rhizosphere nutrient availability yet with potential risk of root system damage due to elevated fertilizer salt concentrations, which may be further exacerbated by drought. Under controlled conditions, we examined northern red oak ( Quercus rubra L.) leaf physiological parameters and soluble sugar concentrations in response to varying nutrient levels (via CRF application) and moisture availability gradients ranging from drought to flooding. Net photosynthetic rates, transpiration rates, and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters responded positively to CRF application, and no interactions were observed between CRF and moisture availability; however, CRF did not increase soluble sugar concentrations. No effects of short-term drought were observed, but flooding exerted a rapid negative influence on net photosynthetic rates, transpiration rates, and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters; flooding also elevated soluble sugar concentrations, indicative of disrupted carbon partitioning and a much greater sensitivity to root-zone hypoxia than to drought in this species. Lack of interactions between CRF application and soil moisture availability indicates relatively similar responses of fertilized seedlings across moisture gradients. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-12 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9326-8 Authors Joshua L. Sloan, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA Douglass F. Jacobs, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Dryocosmus kuriphilus Yasumatsu, an invasive gall wasp originating from Asia, is the latest serious pest attacking Castanea sativa Mill. in Europe; the negative effects on fruit and wood production are considerable. The most effective defense strategy is biological control, but parasitoid effectiveness requires at least 6–10 years to reduce damage to acceptable levels. In Italy, prolonged productivity losses could adversely affect human activity in chestnut orchard stands, resulting in negative socio-economic and hydrogeologic consequences. Thus, it is necessary to quickly reduce the impacts of the infestation to avoid degradation of chestnut stands during the time delay required for parasitoid efficiency. We examined green pruning as a means to reduce negative impacts of gall wasps and stimulate healthy shoots in a young chestnut coppice in Central Italy. Two different pruning cuts (Long- and Short-cut) on growing shoots and four timings of application were tested. The development and phytosanitary status of nodes was observed over 2 years on pruned and control sprouts. Pruning was effective in reducing gall wasp damage though responses varied among pruning techniques and application times. Long-cut pruning made in spring during the full growth phase induced a higher number of new and better-developed shoots. Pruning during the end of the egg-laying period of the gall wasps promoted development of only healthy new shoots. Our results indicate that is possible, by choosing the best combination of time and technique, to identify a pruning method useful to maintain growth and development of C. sativa stands threatened by D. kuriphilus . Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-17 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9323-y Authors Alberto Maltoni, Dipartimento di Economia, Ingegneria, Scienze e Tecnologie Agrarie e Forestali (DEISTAF), Università degli Studi di Firenze, Florence, Italy Barbara Mariotti, Dipartimento di Economia, Ingegneria, Scienze e Tecnologie Agrarie e Forestali (DEISTAF), Università degli Studi di Firenze, Florence, Italy Douglass F. Jacobs, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center, Purdue University, 715 West State Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA Andrea Tani, Dipartimento di Economia, Ingegneria, Scienze e Tecnologie Agrarie e Forestali (DEISTAF), Università degli Studi di Firenze, Florence, Italy Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Ectomycorrhizal (EM) fungi incorporation in nursery production is necessary for afforestation with exotic tree species and native forests restoration programs. The fact that spore use as EM inocula is inexpensive and effective, makes it an option more realistic than vegetative inoculum production for many regions around the world. To determine spore activity from EM species selected as inoculants for Nothofagus pumilio and exotic conifers planted in Patagonia, two conservation methods were applied (i.e., dried fruit bodies and spore slurries), and their change over time was assessed (over 8–9 months). Spore activity decreased significantly with time for both native and exotic EM species. Conservation methods showed no significant differences for N. pumilio EM species considered together or for exotic conifer EM species. However, spore activity of different EM species behaved differently with conservation method and over time when considered separately. Taxa which better kept spore activity over time were Austropaxillus statuum and Setchelliogaster fragilis for N. pumilio , and Inocybe kauffmanii for exotic conifers. However, considering together fruit body spore density and spore activity, the species Hallingea purpurea and Cortinarius sp. also appeared as suitable for N. pumilio and Rhizopogon roseolus , R. villosulus , Suillus luteus and S. lakei for exotic conifers. Spore density found in EM fungal fructifications were also established in order to estimate fructification weights necessary to apply a reference dose of active spores in inoculation programs. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9357-1 Authors V. N. Bassani, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia, S.J. Bosco sede Esquel Ruta 259 km 4, 9200 Esquel, Chubut, Argentina C. Barroetaveña, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia, S.J. Bosco sede Esquel Ruta 259 km 4, 9200 Esquel, Chubut, Argentina M. Rajchenberg, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia, S.J. Bosco sede Esquel Ruta 259 km 4, 9200 Esquel, Chubut, Argentina Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung: Restoring forests: advances in techniques and theory Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9354-4 Authors Juan A. Oliet, Departamento de Silvopascicultura, Escuela de Ingeniería Forestal y del Medio Natural, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain Douglass F. Jacobs, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2061, USA Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Decades of deforestation and over logging have created large expanses of degraded lands in many countries including Vietnam. Reforestation may offer one means of mitigating these processes of degradation while sustaining biodiversity conservation. However a lack of information regarding trees, in particular threatened tree species has been identified as an important limitation in being able to reforest for biodiversity conservation. In the current study, conducted in the Tan Phu “protection forest”, the investigation surrounds the feasibility of biodiversity restoration in a fast-growing plantation after logging. Twelve threatened and native species mainly belonging to the Dipterocarpaceae and Fabaceae families have been considered. Seedlings grown in a local nursery have been planted under the canopy of a 50 ha pioneer forest, with a distance of 5 m between plants and between rows. The experimental design consists of blocks, each one with a replication of a 16-tree plot for each species. Four years after plantation, the survival rate of seedlings is high (〉70 %), except for Dipterocarpus costatus (〈10 %). Growth shows possible inhibitions under a closed canopy but the mean annual increment is generally satisfactory. The early performance of the seedlings is promising to make this plantation a good example of biodiversity restoration. These results could enhance the reforestation efforts of forest managers and encourage them to use native tree species including threatened ones in order to restore a high level of biodiversity in tropical degraded forests. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9344-6 Authors J. Millet, Université de Lyon, UMR 5023 Ecologie des Hydrosystèmes Fluviaux Naturels et Anthropisés, Université Lyon 1, ENTPE, CNRS, 6 rue Raphaël Dubois, 69622 Villeurbanne Cedex, France N. Tran, Nong Lam University, Thu Duc District, Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam N. Vien Ngoc, Nong Lam University, Thu Duc District, Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam T. Tran Thi, Tan Phu Protection Forest, Dinh Quan, Dong Nai Province, Vietnam D. Prat, Université de Lyon, UMR 5023 Ecologie des Hydrosystèmes Fluviaux Naturels et Anthropisés, Université Lyon 1, ENTPE, CNRS, 6 rue Raphaël Dubois, 69622 Villeurbanne Cedex, France Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Aspen ( Populus tremuloides Michx) has great potential as a reclamation species for mining sites in the boreal forest, but planting stock has shown poor field performance after outplanting. In this study we tested how different aspen seedling characteristics and planting times affect field outplanting performance on reclamation sites. We produced three different types of aspen planting stock, which varied significantly in seedling size, root-to-shoot ratio (RSR), and total non-structural carbohydrate (TNC) reserves in roots, by artificially manipulating shoot growth during seedling production. All three stock types were then field-planted either in late summer, late fall, or early spring after frozen storage. Seedlings were outplanted onto two reclaimed open-pit mining areas in the boreal forest region of central and east-central Alberta, Canada, which varied significantly in latitude, reclamation history, and soil conditions. Overall, height growth was better in aspen stock types with high RSR and TNC reserves. Differences in field performance among aspen stock types appeared to be more strongly expressed when seedlings were exposed to more stressful environmental site conditions, such as low soil nutrients and moisture. Generally, aspen seedlings planted with leaves in the summer showed the poorest performance, and summer- or fall-planted seedlings with no shoot growth manipulation had much greater stem dieback after the first winter. This indicates that the dormancy and hardening of the stem, as a result of premature bud set treatments, could improve the outplanting performance of aspen seedlings, particularly those planted during summer and fall. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9346-4 Authors Simon M. Landhäusser, Department of Renewable Resources, School of Forest Science and Management, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H1, Canada Javier Rodriguez-Alvarez, Department of Renewable Resources, School of Forest Science and Management, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H1, Canada Eckehart H. Marenholtz, Department of Renewable Resources, School of Forest Science and Management, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H1, Canada Victor J. Lieffers, Department of Renewable Resources, School of Forest Science and Management, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H1, Canada Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Forest restoration programs using Holm oak ( Quercus ilex ssp. ballota [Desf.] Samp.) have had limited success. The effect of plant provenance on plantation success is uncertain, although some previous studies suggest that some provenances may be better able to tolerate stress. We studied the tolerance to drought in seedlings from two Spanish provenances of Holm oak before and after outplanting. One provenance was from a continental climate with cold winters ( GR ) and the other was from a xeric climate ( HU ). Seedlings were subjected to a water stress test in the nursery during the summer and survival was visually assessed after 2 weeks. In addition, 35 healthy seedlings of each provenance that were not subjected to the water stress tests were used for outplanting experiment. In these plants the seasonal changes in water potential at dawn (Ψ), specific leaf area (SLA), cuticular transpiration (E c ), and loss of xylem hydraulic conductance of twigs (PLC) were measured over 18 months. After the water stress test in summer, mortality was 44.3 % for GR seedlings and 12.6 % for HU seedlings. In addition there were differences between the two provenances in plant water status after planting. The HU provenance had a better water status and was more water conservative in the summer (higher Ψ, lower E c , lower PLC), but not in the winter. The different drought tolerance and water relations parameters of these two provenances indicate that provenance should be considered in forest restoration and conservation programs involving Holm oak. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9347-3 Authors Enrique Andivia, Departamento de Ciencias Agroforestales, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Huelva, Campus Universitario de La Rábida, 21819 Palos de la Frontera, Huelva, Spain Felipe Carevic, Departamento de Ciencias Agroforestales, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Huelva, Campus Universitario de La Rábida, 21819 Palos de la Frontera, Huelva, Spain Manuel Fernández, Departamento de Ciencias Agroforestales, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Huelva, Campus Universitario de La Rábida, 21819 Palos de la Frontera, Huelva, Spain Reyes Alejano, Departamento de Ciencias Agroforestales, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Huelva, Campus Universitario de La Rábida, 21819 Palos de la Frontera, Huelva, Spain Javier Vázquez-Piqué, Departamento de Ciencias Agroforestales, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Huelva, Campus Universitario de La Rábida, 21819 Palos de la Frontera, Huelva, Spain Raúl Tapias, Departamento de Ciencias Agroforestales, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería, Universidad de Huelva, Campus Universitario de La Rábida, 21819 Palos de la Frontera, Huelva, Spain Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Competitive effects of dense herbaceous vegetation (ground cover) can inhibit forest restoration on mine sites. Here we review the evidence of ground cover interactions with planted tree seedlings on coal surface mines of the eastern US, discuss recent research into these interactions, and draw conclusions concerning ground cover management when restoring forests on reclaimed coal mines. Reclaimed mine sites have a high potential to support productive forests, however forest establishment is inhibited by reclamation practices that included soil compaction, and the seeding of competitive ground covers. In the first few years after tree planting, a dense ground cover of grass and legume species commonly seeded on mine sites often affect growth and survival negatively. Herbaceous vegetation providing less extensive and competitive ground coverage may either facilitate or inhibit tree establishment, depending on site conditions. The use of quality planting stock promotes the competitive ability of seedlings by improving nutrient status and the ability to capture available resources. Herbaceous species have contrasting functional characteristics, and thus compete differently with trees for available resources. Negative interactions with trees are more frequently reported for non-native cool-season grasses than for native warm-season grasses, while the effects of legumes change over time. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of tree/ground cover interactions. The development of seeding mixes that can control erosion, facilitate survival and growth of planted trees, and allow establishment by unplanted native species would aid forest restoration on eastern US, coal mines. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-20 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9342-8 Authors Jennifer A. Franklin, Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Tennessee, 274 Ellington Plant Sci., Knoxville, TN 37996, USA Carl E. Zipper, Department of Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Smyth Hall, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA James A. Burger, Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Cheatham Hall, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA Jeffrey G. Skousen, Department of Plant and Soil Science, West Virginia University, Agricultural Sciences Building 1106, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA Douglass F. Jacobs, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center, Purdue University, 715 West State Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Global deforestation and forest degradation have led to massive loss of biodiversity and decline of ecosystem services. Against this prospect, it is important not only to protect, but also to restore forest ecosystems. The paper analyzes the current and future role of the restoration of forests and degraded lands starting with the definition of various techniques, scales and objectives of forest restoration. Three key motivations for and targets of forest restoration are then discussed: forest biodiversity protection, biomass production, climate change mitigation and adaptation. The paper also briefly discusses three tools of increasing relevance for supporting forest restoration policies: the development of forest nursery techniques and the improvement of quality of forest reproductive material, the use of standard and certification tools, and financing of restoration investments, including projects aimed at reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation. We conclude by making some final remarks on the future challenges of forest restoration policies. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-18 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9350-8 Authors Lorenzo Ciccarese, Nature Conservation Department, Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via V. Brancati 48, 00144 Rome, Italy Anders Mattsson, Department of Forest and Wood Technology, Dalarna University, Högskolegatan 2, 791 88 Falun, Sweden Davide Pettenella, Land, Environment, Agriculture and Forestry Department, University of Padua, Via Università 16, 35020 Legnaro PD, Italy Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Natural regeneration by strip-clearcut has rarely been used for restocking of evergreen broad-leaved forests in the East Asia. To contribute to a better understanding of the likely reasons for either the successful recovery of these forests or failure, the early response of stand structure and tree species diversity to strip-clearcut were studied in Okinawa Island, southwest Japan. The 4,000 m 2 study area was divided into 10 adjacent sections of equal area with a 10 m × 10 m sampling plot in the center, of which five sections were strip-clearcut while the remaining five sections uncut. Eight-year secondary succession following strip-clearcut showed that the density of woody stems, tree species diversity increased significantly not only in the regenerating stands but also in the residual stands compared to the primary stands. The primary dominant target species, Castanopsis sieboldii , continued to dominate both the regenerating and residual stands although colonizing species invaded abundantly in the stands, occupying approximately one-third of total tree species in each treatment. The community similarity analyses showed that the species composition were similar between the primary stands and the regenerating stands or residual stands reflected the high similarity amongst the primary stands and the regenerating stands or the residual stands. The similar stand structure, high tree species diversity and greater community similarity after strip-clearcut provided no evidence of forest degeneration, suggesting that the regenerating stand might gradually develop into stand similar to that prior to strip-clearcut. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-16 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9353-5 Authors Lichao Wu, College of Forest Science, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004 Hunan, China Yanlin Deng, College of Forest Science, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004 Hunan, China Shin Watanabe, Iriomote Station, Tropical Biosphere Research Centre, University of the Ryukyus, Taketomo-Cho, Okinawa, 907-1541 Japan Shinzato Takakazu, Faculty of Agriculture, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, 903-0213 Japan Jie Qin, College of Forest Science, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004 Hunan, China Jie Zhong, College of Forest Science, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004 Hunan, China Jin Zhang, College of Forest Science, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Changsha, 410004 Hunan, China Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Seed germination and biochemical reserves of maritime pine ( Pinus pinaster Ait.) were studied with the aim of providing germination information for reforestation and conservation programs. Ten natural populations were used to assess variation in seed weight, germination characteristics and biochemical reserves and to examine the relationship between these characteristics. The analysis of variance showed highly significant population effects for seed weight, germination characteristics and protein content in both seeds and the female gametophyte. The mobilization of protein content in female gametophyte during seed germination differed more among populations than sugar content, suggesting that protein content was more sensitive to environment effects than sugar content. A strong positive correlation between germination capacity and the protein content in both seeds and female gametophyte indicated that the best populations in term of germination capacity may also be the richest in protein content. Seeds that were heavier and had a lower speed of protein content mobilization in the female gametophyte appeared to be better adapted to drought conditions. The results also suggested that as much as possible of the potentially valuable genetic variation among populations of this species should be preserved for reforestation and conservation purposes. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9348-2 Authors Nadya Wahid, Institut National des Plantes Médicinales et Aromatiques, Université Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, BP 159, Taounate, 34000 Maroc Lahouari Bounoua, Biospheric Sciences Laboratory Code 618, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), Greenbelt, MD 20771, USA Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Predicting progeny performance from parental divergence would potentially enhance the efficiency of breeding. Thirteen clones of Masson pine ( Pinus massoniana ) were crossed in a 4 × 9 tester mating design and 36 full-sib families were generated. There were significant variations in major growth traits and heterosis of growth traits among the 36 full-sib families. A total of 115 alleles were detected with 30 sets of SSR primers. Genetic distances (GDs) among the crossed clonal pairs were calculated based on SSR data. Parental GDs was significantly correlated with all traits evaluated in the full-sib progeny test ( P  〈 0.05), and the correlation coefficient was 0.398, 0.463 and 0.473 for tree height, DBH and wood volume. Parental geographical divergence was also significantly correlated with growth traits of progeny, while the correlation coefficient was lower than that of GDs. These results demonstrated the potential and feasibility of SSR markers for predicting progeny performance of Masson pine. Considering the influence of genotype × environment interaction effect on the stability of full-sib family performance, our results regarding the moderate contribution of parent GDs in predicting the performance of their full-sib progenies is of importance mainly for the specific region where the progeny test was carried out. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9340-x Authors Yi Zhang, Research Institute of Subtropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Da Qiao Road, 73#, Fuyang, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China Qing Yang, Research Institute of Subtropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Da Qiao Road, 73#, Fuyang, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China Zhichun Zhou, Research Institute of Subtropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Da Qiao Road, 73#, Fuyang, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China Guoqing Jin, Research Institute of Subtropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Da Qiao Road, 73#, Fuyang, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Drought is one of the crucial factors limiting plant growth and is expected to become even more limiting in many regions as the effects of climate change increase. Knowledge of genetic adaptation to environmental factors can help develop strategies for successful reforestation in arid terrain. In this study, Austrian pine ( Pinus nigra Arnold) seedlings grown from seed collected from 40 open-pollinated families from five Balkan Peninsula provenances were evaluated for survival and growth under imposed drought. Within each provenance, seed was collected from an extremely harsh habitat and from a favorable habitat. One-year-old seedlings, from each provenance, habitat type and open pollinated family were transplanted into three “stressbeds”, each designed to simulate different levels of water availability by filling with varying ratios of crushed stone and soil. Seedling height growth and survival were recorded every 20–30 days from April–September. In all provenances, seedlings grown from seed originating from the harsh habitats had lower survival regardless of stressbed treatment compared to those grown from seed collected from favorable habitats, with the exception of one population from the Višegrad provenance which had high survival rates throughout. Overall height growth was very low and did not follow consistent patterns among treatment groups. Cluster analyses of survival data showed that populations from a similar habitat generally grouped together, regardless of provenance. The lowest and highest survival values were found in seedlings from harsh habitats, while those from the favorable habitats clustered in the mid-range. These results suggest that higher seed quality from productive stands may be the most influential factor determining seedling vigor under drought stress and that genetic adaptation to drought was not detected in adjacent populations having different habitat conditions. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-14 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9351-7 Authors Milan Mataruga, Faculty of Forestry, University of Banja Luka, Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina Diane Haase, USDA Forest Service, Portland, OR 97208, USA Vasilije Isajev, Faculty of Forestry, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia Saša Orlović, Institute of Lowland Forestry and Environment, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Increasingly private landholders in Hawaii are considering native forest restoration for their lands, and some public agencies have already started such work. Initial efforts have focused on reestablishing Acacia koa to recover alien-grass-dominated sites. This study was done in Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, Island of Hawaii, to determine the efficacy of disk plowing to stimulate natural regeneration of koa from buried seeds. Sites with four different koa parent tree configurations were treated–single live overhead koa canopy, multiple live canopies, downed snags, and no parent koa tree. Tree growth and survival were assessed periodically over 21 years. Average initial stand densities ranged from 100 to 1,500 trees ha −1 of scarified land, although some open areas had as few as 20 trees ha −1 . The distributions of seedlings with increasing distance from plot center were variable within and between parent tree configurations. Initial seedling density was significantly greater for the multiple-live-parent than for the no-parent configuration. Densities for the single-live and dead configurations differed from the no-parent configuration only when densities were based on the entire scarified area of each plot. Stand densities declined 10–67 % during the next 20 years. Survival was a negative, non-linear function of initial stand density. Initial stand density exerted strong control over stem diameter and crown size at age 21-years, but had little effect on the proportion of trees with single-stems. The relationships between stand basal area and density at 21 years conformed to the existing koa stocking guidelines. While moderate to high densities of natural regeneration can be expected from scarifying around live and dead koa trees, single trees or low density stands are likely in open areas. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-18 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9352-6 Authors Paul G. Scowcroft, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station, Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry, 60 Nowelo Street, Hilo, HI 96720, USA Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Growing interest worldwide in bottomland hardwood restoration necessitates improved ecological understanding of flooding effects on forest tree seedlings using methodology that accurately reflects field conditions. We examined hardwood seedling survival and growth in an outdoor laboratory where the timing, depth, duration, and flow rate of flood water can be carefully controlled while simulating natural soil conditions occurring in floodplains. Flooding treatments were initiated in mid-May and included partial inundation (15–20 cm) during the growing season for 5-week flowing, 5-week standing, 3-week flowing, and control. We monitored the vigor, survival, and growth (changes in basal diameter and stem length) of six hardwood species representing a wide range in expected flood tolerance including eastern cottonwood ( Populus deltoides Bartr. Ex Marsh.), pin oak ( Quercus palustris Muenchh.), swamp white oak ( Q. bicolor Willd.), bur oak ( Q. macrocarpa Michx.), black walnut ( Juglans nigra L.), and pecan [ Carya illinoensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch]. All stock was 1-0 bareroot except that cuttings were used for eastern cottonwood. Five species—eastern cottonwood, bur oak, swamp white oak, pin oak, and pecan—exhibited high survival probabilities (〉0.62 for cottonwood; 〉0.77 for the others) regardless of flood treatment. But of the survivors, only eastern cottonwood and swamp white oak maintained positive growth and healthy green foliage. Despite high survival, bur oak and pin oak suffered stem growth losses and exhibited chlorotic foliage in flood treatments suggesting greater vulnerability to other abiotic or biotic stresses if outplanted on flood-prone sites. Pecan also suffered stem dieback in controls suggesting vulnerability to competition and browsing when outplanted despite high survival after flooding. Our quantitative data helps to confirm and/or refine previously published qualitative flood tolerance ratings for these species, and describes operation of an in situ outdoor flood experiment laboratory that may prove effective in guiding future flood tolerance research. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-16 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9331-y Authors John M. Kabrick, USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station, University of Missouri, 202 Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO 65211, USA Daniel C. Dey, USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station, University of Missouri, 202 Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO 65211, USA J. W. Van Sambeek, USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station, University of Missouri, 202 Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO 65211, USA Mark V. Coggeshall, Center for Agroforestry, University of Missouri, 203 Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO 65211, USA Douglass F. Jacobs, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2061, USA Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Oaks ( Quercus spp.) are one of the most important tree taxa in the northern hemisphere. Although they are dominant in mixed species forests and widely distributed, there are frequent reports of regeneration failures. An adequate population of large oak advance reproduction is a critical prerequisite to successful oak regeneration, and hence sustainability of oak. But, many oak forests lack sufficient density of large and competitive oak advance reproduction. Artificial regeneration of oak by underplanting is done to supplement natural populations of oak seedlings or to introduce oak in stands where it is missing. Planting high quality seedlings is important. Silvicultural practices that regulate stand density such as thinning and the shelterwood method are needed to increase oak’s regeneration potential by promoting accumulation and growth of natural and planted seedlings before the final regeneration harvest. Control of competing vegetation and herbivory are important elements in the regeneration prescription. Light in the understory is a limiting factor to the accumulation of large oak advance reproduction. Light levels (20–50 % +) sufficient for biomass production in oak reproduction result through management of stand density and other competing vegetation. We review and synthesize the literature on silvicultural approaches to using artificial regeneration to obtain successful oak regeneration that is grounded in fundamental principles of oak biology and ecology. Principles of oak regeneration presented here may also have relevance to other hydric, mesic and dry-mesic forest environments. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-24 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9330-z Authors Daniel C. Dey, Research Foresters, USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station, 202 Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO 65211, USA Emile S. Gardiner, Research Forester, Southern Research Station, USDA Forest Service, Stoneville, MS 38776, USA Callie J. Schweitzer, Research Forester, Southern Research Station, USDA Forest Service, Normal, AL 35762, USA John M. Kabrick, Research Foresters, USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station, 202 Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO 65211, USA Douglass F. Jacobs, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Post-fire salvage logging (i.e. felling and removing burnt trees, often eliminating the remaining woody debris) is a practice routinely performed by forest managers worldwide. In Mediterranean-type ecosystems, salvage logging is considered a measure to reduce future reforestation costs, but this assumption remains largely untested. We made a cost analysis of different management schemes, addressing the immediate post-fire burnt-wood management as well as the costs and success of subsequent reforestation efforts. Two experimental 25-ha plots were established in a burnt pine reforestation of SE Spain, in which three replicates of three post-fire treatments were applied: non-intervention (NI), partial cut plus lopping (PCL; felling and lopping off the branches from most of the trees, leaving all biomass in situ), and salvage logging (SL). After 4 years, a mechanised reforestation was undertaken, and seedling mortality was monitored for 2 years. The cost of all management operations was recorded in situ, and the cost of re-planting the dead seedlings was estimated according to the expenses of previous reforestation. Initial cost of wood management was greatest in SL and zero in NI. Reforestation cost was highest in NI and lowest in SL, and seedling-mortality rates proved lowest in PCL (43 % vs. 51 % and 52 % in SL and NI, respectively). Considering all the post-fire management operations, salvage logging did not provide particular economic advantages for forest restoration, and had an overall cost of 3,436 ± 340 €/ha. By contrast, NI and PCL reduced total restoration costs by 50 and 35 %, respectively, and PCL indeed promoted restoration success. We suggest that the full cost of management operations needs to be considered when evaluating the economic implications of post-fire salvage logging. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9327-7 Authors Alexandro B. Leverkus, Departamento de Ecología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain Carolina Puerta-Piñero, Unit 0948, APO AA, Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, 34002-0948 Washington, DC, USA José Ramón Guzmán-Álvarez, Grupo de Investigación Silvopascicultura, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain Javier Navarro, Sierra Nevada National Park, Consejería de Medio Ambiente, Junta de Andalucía, Granada, Spain Jorge Castro, Departamento de Ecología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Reduction in size and tissue nutrient concentration is widely considered to increase seedling drought resistance in dry and oligotrophic plantation sites. However, much evidence indicates that increase in size and tissue nutrient concentration improves seedling survival in Mediterranean forest plantations. This suggests that the ecophysiological processes and functional attributes relevant for early seedling survival in Mediterranean climate must be reconsidered. We propose a ecophysiological conceptual model for seedling survival in Mediterranean-climate plantations to provide a physiological explanation of the frequent positive relationship between outplanting performance and seedling size and nutrient concentration. The model considers the physiological processes outlined in the plantation establishment model of Burdett (Can J For Res 20:415–427, 1990 ), but incorporates other physiological processes that drive seedling survival, such as N remobilization, carbohydrate storage and plant hydraulics. The model considers that seedling survival in Mediterranean climates is linked to high growth capacity during the wet season. The model is for container plants and is based on three main principles, (1) Mediterranean climates are not dry the entire year but usually have two seasons of contrasting water availability; (2) summer drought is the main cause of seedling mortality; in this context, deep and large roots is a key trait for avoiding lethal water stress; (3) attainment of large root systems in the dry season is promoted when seedlings have high growth during the wet season. High growth is achieved when seedlings can divert large amount of resources to support new root and shoot growth. Functional traits that confer high photosynthesis, nutrient remobilization capacity, and non-structural carbohydrate storage promote high growth. Increases in seedling size and nutrient concentration strongly affect these physiological processes. Traits that confer high drought resistance are of low value during the wet season because hinder growth capacity. We provide specific evidence to support the model and finally we discuss its implications and the factors that may alter the frequent increase in performance with increase in seedling size and tissue nutrient concentration. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-16 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9328-6 Authors Pedro Villar-Salvador, Departamento de Ecología, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, 28871 Madrid, Spain Jaime Puértolas, Centro Nacional de Recursos Genéticos Forestales “El Serranillo”, Ministerio de Agricultura, Alimentación y Medio Ambiente, Apdo. 2025, 19080 Guadalajara, Spain Bárbara Cuesta, Departamento de Ecología, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, 28871 Madrid, Spain Juan L. Peñuelas, Centro Nacional de Recursos Genéticos Forestales “El Serranillo”, Ministerio de Agricultura, Alimentación y Medio Ambiente, Apdo. 2025, 19080 Guadalajara, Spain Mercedes Uscola, Departamento de Ecología, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, 28871 Madrid, Spain Norberto Heredia-Guerrero, Departamento de Ecología, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, 28871 Madrid, Spain José M. Rey Benayas, Departamento de Ecología, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, 28871 Madrid, Spain Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Reforestation efforts in dryland ecosystems frequently encounter drought and limited soil productivity, although both factors usually interact synergistically to worsen water stress for outplanted seedlings. Land degradation in drylands (e.g. desertification) usually reduces soil productivity and, especially, soil water availability. In dry sub-humid regions, forest fires constitute a major disturbance affecting ecosystem dynamics and reforestation planning. Climate change projections indicate an increase of drought and more severe fire regime in many dryland regions of the world. In this context, the main target of plantation technology development is to overcome transplant shock and likely adverse periods, and in drylands this is mostly related to water limitations. In this paper, we discuss some selected steps that we consider critical for improving success in outplanting woody plants, both under current and projected climate change conditions including: (1) Plant species selection, (2) Improved nursery techniques, and (3) Improved planting techniques. The number of plant species used in reforestation is increasing rapidly, moving from a reduced set of well-known, easy-to-grow, widely used species, to a large variety of promising native species. Available technologies allow for reintroducing native plants and recovering critical ecosystem functions for many degraded drylands. However, climate change projections introduce large uncertainties about the sustainability of current reforestation practices. To cope with these uncertainties, adaptive restoration approaches are suggested, on the basis of improved plant quality, improved techniques for optimizing rain use efficiency in plantations, and exploring native plant species, including provenances and genotypes, for their resilience to fire and water use efficiency. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-19 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9325-9 Authors V. Ramón Vallejo, Fundación de la Comunidad Valenciana Centro de Estudios Ambientales del Mediterráneo (CEAM), Unidad Mixta de Investigación Universidad de Alicante—Fundación CEAM, Parque Tecnológico, C/Charles Darwin, 14, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain Athanasios Smanis, Fundación de la Comunidad Valenciana Centro de Estudios Ambientales del Mediterráneo (CEAM), Unidad Mixta de Investigación Universidad de Alicante—Fundación CEAM, Parque Tecnológico, C/Charles Darwin, 14, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain Esteban Chirino, Fundación de la Comunidad Valenciana Centro de Estudios Ambientales del Mediterráneo (CEAM), Unidad Mixta de Investigación Universidad de Alicante—Fundación CEAM, Parque Tecnológico, C/Charles Darwin, 14, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain David Fuentes, Fundación de la Comunidad Valenciana Centro de Estudios Ambientales del Mediterráneo (CEAM), Unidad Mixta de Investigación Universidad de Alicante—Fundación CEAM, Parque Tecnológico, C/Charles Darwin, 14, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain Alejandro Valdecantos, Fundación de la Comunidad Valenciana Centro de Estudios Ambientales del Mediterráneo (CEAM), Unidad Mixta de Investigación Universidad de Alicante—Fundación CEAM, Parque Tecnológico, C/Charles Darwin, 14, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain Alberto Vilagrosa, Fundación de la Comunidad Valenciana Centro de Estudios Ambientales del Mediterráneo (CEAM), Unidad Mixta de Investigación Universidad de Alicante—Fundación CEAM, Parque Tecnológico, C/Charles Darwin, 14, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Forest restoration projects have become increasingly common around the world and planting trees is almost always a key component. Low seedling survival and growth may result in restoration failures and various mechanical site preparation techniques for treatment of soils and vegetation are important tools used to help counteract this. In this article, we synthesize the current state-of-knowledge concerning mechanical site preparation for improved tree establishment when carried out in different forest restoration situations, point out critical research gaps and provide some recommendations for future directions. Mechanical site preparation often results in improved seedling survival and growth. However, if not intensive methods with much soil disturbance are used, it is a rather ineffective tool for controlling competing vegetation. Methods such as scarification, mounding and subsoiling also lead to multiple interactions among soil physical and chemical properties that affect plant survival and growth, and it may be difficult to determine the actual cause–effect relationship of any positive seedling responses. Most research to date on mechanical site preparation and plantation performance has been conducted using a few conifer tree species. Seedling responses differ among tree species and alternative species are often used during restoration compared to production forestry indicating a need for additional research for improved understanding. Several management objectives such as soil protection and increased biodiversity are many times relevant during forest restoration, and mechanical site preparation methods should be implemented carefully because they can have large impacts on the environment. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-24 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9332-x Authors Magnus Löf, Southern Swedish Forest Research Center, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, P.O. Box 49, 230 53 Alnarp, Sweden Daniel C. Dey, U.S. Forest Service, Northern Research Station, P.O. 202, Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Bldg., Columbia, MO 65211, USA Rafael M. Navarro, School of Agricultural and Forestry Engineering, University of Cordoba, Edf. Leonardo da Vinci, Campus de Rabanales, 14071 Cordoba, Spain Douglass F. Jacobs, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2061, USA Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Over the last century, north-eastern North America has seen the gradual abandonment of much agricultural land that had become unsuitable for modern practices. This shift in land-use has released large areas that are now dominated by early-successional forests with limited mid- and late-successional species regeneration. Enrichment underplanting, with the partial preservation of the existing vegetation to serve as a shelterwood, has been proposed to restore the production of valuable timber. The present study reports mid-term (8–12 year) results from an enrichment planting experiment located at two sites in the St-Lawrence River Valley, eastern Canada. The objective was to identify the required frequency of low-intensity thinnings necessary to secure an optimal density of promising stems of black cherry ( Prunus serotina Ehrh.) and red oak ( Quercus rubra L.). Partial thinning treatments were applied during the 3rd and 7th growing seasons and compared to a single thinning applied at the 7th year. Each thinning treatment increased available light to 20–30 % in the understory (measured the following year at 2 m from ground level). The height of red oaks released twice was almost double that of red oaks thinned only once. The effect on black cherry was less dramatic and significant only at one of the two sites. A higher intensity or an earlier application of thinning regimes may be required for black cherry. The early thinning allowed a larger number of planted trees to react positively to the second thinning. The practice of double thinning over a period of 12 years allowed for the production of a significant number of competitively successful trees for the landowner. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-14 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9329-5 Authors Alain Cogliastro, Institut de Recherche en Biologie Végétale, Jardin botanique de Montréal, Université de Montréal, 4101 Sherbrooke est, Montreal, QC H1X 2B2, Canada Alain Paquette, Center for Forest Research, Université du Québec à Montréal, P.O. Box 8888, Centre-Ville Station, Montreal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    In the Canadian boreal forest, conifer plantations are mainly used to overcome poor natural regeneration following harvesting or wildfires. However, competitive interactions can impair the successful establishment of forest plantations, especially in the presence of ericaceous species, such as Kalmia angustifolia , that are good competitors for soil resources. We used data from a silvicultural trial established in northwestern Quebec (Canada) to test the hypothesis that Kalmia ’s effect on seedling growth is an asymptotic nonlinear function of proximity to Kalmia at time of planting. Our main objective was to derive species-specific thresholds of Kalmia -proximity tolerance at the time of planting for boreal sites prone to Kalmia invasion following harvesting. Using nonlinear quantile regressions (90th percentile), height, diameter and growth of planted Picea mariana and Pinus banksiana seedlings over 8 years was regressed against the initial distance to the nearest Kalmia stem at time of planting. We also investigated the relation between annual growth and the distance to nearest Kalmia stem during any given year between age 2 and 8-years. Finally, we evaluated how mechanical soil scarification influenced Kalmia recovery over time by looking at its rate of spread, estimated from mean distance to planted seedlings over 8 years. Silvicultural treatments increased the intercepts and asymptotes of all variables for Pinus . However, asymptotic values for Picea could not be identified, thus precluding threshold assessment for initial distance to Kalmia at planting for this species. For Pinus planted on scarified sites, a Kalmia -free radius of 60 cm would lead to ~80 to 85 % of the 90th percentile of maximum potential height at age 8 years. Mechanical scarification created Kalmia -free microsites that were rapidly re-invaded by spread of Kalmia ; planting immediately following soil preparation of these sites is therefore important for ensuring successful plantation establishment. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-20 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9324-x Authors Nelson Thiffault, Direction de la recherche forestière, Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune du Québec, 2700 rue Einstein, Québec, QC G1P 3W8, Canada Geneviève Picher, Direction de la recherche forestière, Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune du Québec, 2700 rue Einstein, Québec, QC G1P 3W8, Canada Isabelle Auger, Direction de la recherche forestière, Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune du Québec, 2700 rue Einstein, Québec, QC G1P 3W8, Canada Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    In addition to regeneration through seed, certain eucalypts are able to regenerate via the production of coppice shoots following felling, which can then be selectively thinned over time and managed as a coppice stand for the commercial production of timber. Little information could be found if tree form differs between coppiced (where one or two stems had been left per stump) and planted eucalypts, or whether different volume taper models would need to be developed. To determine if this was necessary, rotation-end stem taper data was collected from an Eucalyptus grandis × E. urophylla and an E. grandis × E. camaldulensis trial to compare volume taper equations for planted versus coppiced commercially grown Eucalyptus clonal hybrids. For treatment comparisons, taper data were collected from the parent crop (1R), the replanted crop (2R), as well as from coppiced stands where either a single (Cop_Sngl) or double stem (Cop_Dbl) had been left per stump. S tem taper functions used for treatment comparisons indicated differences between clones, as well as between treatment, with the models based on single stems (1R, 2R or Cop_Sngl) being significantly different from those containing two stems (Cop_Dbl). Despite any non-significant model differences (for example between 1R, 2R and Cop_Sngl single stem crops) the percentage magnitude of any bias in utilizable volume differences when comparing the individual models (between a 6.31% over-prediction to a 3.8% under-prediction) still needs to be taken into account as these differences may have importance in terms of the volume and product prediction. Content Type Journal Article Pages 129-141 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9275-7 Authors Trevor Morley, Institute for Commercial Forestry Research, PO Box 100281, Scottsville, 3209 South Africa Keith Little, Institute for Commercial Forestry Research, PO Box 100281, Scottsville, 3209 South Africa Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286 Journal Volume Volume 43 Journal Issue Volume 43, Number 2

Beschreibung:    An in vitro plant regeneration protocol via indirect organogenesis from morphogenetic callus was established for Casuarina cunninghamiana Miq. Effects of plant growth regulator NAA (naphthaleneacetic acid) and BAP (6-benzylaminopurine), sucrose and AgNO 3 on callus induction, adventitious bud differentiation and shoot development were examined. Explants used were epicotyl fragments from 45-day-old seedlings. The largest callus (4.29 mm in diameter) was obtained after 1 month on a basic culture medium consisting of Murashige and Skoog ½ macro- and full strength micro- elements, Nitsch and Nitsch vitamins, supplemented with 0.54 μM NAA, 3.30 μM BAP, and 30 g L −1 sucrose. The calli were subcultured in the same medium above for 2 months. They were then cultured for another 2 months for adventitious bud differentiation and shoot development. The highest mean adventitious bud differentiation, number of shoots formed per callus and number of shoots ≥2 cm long per callus (47.50%, 27.38 and 4.75, respectively) were achieved on the above medium modified with NAA at 0.27 μM and supplemented with AgNO 3 1 mg L −1 . Shoots were successfully rooted without plant growth regulator and the rooted plantlets survived and grew normally. This protocol for in vitro plant regeneration provides a tool not only for vegetative propagation but also for plant genetic transformation and gene function studies of C. cunninghamiana . Content Type Journal Article Category Report Pages 143-154 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9277-5 Authors Qingbin Jiang, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, No. 682 Guangshan Yi Road, Guangzhou, 510520 People’s Republic of China Yong Zhang, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, No. 682 Guangshan Yi Road, Guangzhou, 510520 People’s Republic of China Chonglu Zhong, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, No. 682 Guangshan Yi Road, Guangzhou, 510520 People’s Republic of China Bingshan Zeng, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, No. 682 Guangshan Yi Road, Guangzhou, 510520 People’s Republic of China Didier Bogusz, Equipe Rhizogenèse, UMR DIADE, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), 911 Avenue Agropolis, 34394 Montpellier Cedex 5, France Claudine Franche, Equipe Rhizogenèse, UMR DIADE, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), 911 Avenue Agropolis, 34394 Montpellier Cedex 5, France Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286 Journal Volume Volume 43 Journal Issue Volume 43, Number 2

Beschreibung:    Foliar nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) concentrations of 5 Symphyomyrtus ( E. botryoides , E. cladocalyx , E. microcorys , E. nitens , E. saligna ) and 7 Monocalyptus ( E. agglomerata , E. baxteri , E. globoidea , E. muelleriana , E. obliqua , E. pilularis , E. regnans ) species were determined for each of four hill country microsites; upper shady, lower shady, upper sunny and lower sunny slopes. ANOVA and correlation analysis were used to identify species and microsite effects, and nutrient associations. Significant ( P  ≤ 0.0014) species differences were identified for all nutrients, E. botryoides and E. saligna generally had high nutrient concentrations while stringybark species were low, particularly for N and K. Subgeneric contrasts revealed that Symphyomyrtus species had significantly higher concentrations of P ( P  = 0.05) N, K and Ca ( P  〈 0.0001) but lower Mg ( P  〈 0.0001) than Monocalyptus . Microsite had less influence on nutrient concentrations than species. N was strongly positively correlated with P and K in most Symphyomyrtus species but was not correlated with P in Monocalyptus . Mg was positively correlated with Ca but negatively correlated with K in most species. The results indicate that Monocalyptus and Symphyomyrtus species differ in ability to accumulate key macronutrients. Content Type Journal Article Pages 255-266 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9279-3 Authors J. P. Millner, Institute of Natural Resources, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, 4442 New Zealand P. D. Kemp, Institute of Natural Resources, Massey University, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, 4442 New Zealand Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286 Journal Volume Volume 43 Journal Issue Volume 43, Number 2

Beschreibung:    The Nelder (Biometrics 18:283–307, 1962) wheel design allows a researcher to test multiple tree densities in a single plot. Because spatial relationships among planted trees are fundamental to a Nelder wheel, a researcher needs a specific set of layout parameters to establish a Nelder plot. While Nelder (Biometrics 18:283–307, 1962) provides calculus-based equations for determining the required layout parameters, the presentation focuses on derivation of these equations and not their application to forestry research. Other authors have outlined the design of Nelder plots for forestry research, but have done so using trigonometry-based equations. Existence of two layout methodologies in the literature is a source of confusion. In this paper, we present a straightforward means to determine the design parameters critical to the establishment of Nelder plots used within tree density research. The layout equations presented are expressed in terms that allow applied forestry researchers to easily answer the following question. Given the number and range of tree densities I want to evaluate, what are the required Nelder wheel layout parameters? Finally, we provide a step-by-step example of the design and installation of a Nelder plot for a scenario familiar to tree density research and discuss analysis of Nelder wheel experiments. Content Type Journal Article Pages 245-254 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9278-4 Authors David L. Parrott, Department of Forestry, University of Kentucky, 210 Thomas Poe Cooper Building, Lexington, KY 40546-0073, USA Joshua S. Brinks, Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, 647 Contees Wharf Road, Edgewater, MD 21037-0028, USA John M. Lhotka, Department of Forestry, University of Kentucky, 210 Thomas Poe Cooper Building, Lexington, KY 40546-0073, USA Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286 Journal Volume Volume 43 Journal Issue Volume 43, Number 2

Beschreibung:    Changing climate conditions will complicate efforts to match seed sources with the environments to which they are best adapted. Tree species distributions may have to shift to match new environmental conditions, potentially requiring the establishment of some species entirely outside of their current distributions to thrive. Even within the portions of tree species ranges that remain generally suitable for the species, local populations may not be well-adapted to altered local conditions. To assist efforts to restore forests and to maximize forest productivity in the face of climate change, we developed a set of 30,000 quantitatively defined seed transfer “ecoregions” across the globe. Reflecting current and future conditions, these were created by combining global maps of potentially important environmental characteristics using a large-scale statistical clustering technique. This approach assigns every 4 km 2 terrestrial raster cell into an ecoregion using non-hierarchical clustering of the cells in multivariate space based on 16 environmental variables. Two cells anywhere on the map with similar combinations of environmental characteristics are located near each other in this data space; cells are then classified into relatively homogeneous ecoregion clusters. Using two global circulation models and two emissions scenarios, we next mapped the predicted environmentally equivalent future locations of each ecoregion in 2050 and 2100. We further depicted areas of decreasing environmental similarity to given ecoregions, both in current time and under climate change. This approach could help minimize the risk that trees used for production, restoration, reforestation, and afforestation are maladapted to their planting sites. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-19 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9322-z Authors Kevin M. Potter, Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources, North Carolina State University, 3041 Cornwallis Road, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA William W. Hargrove, Eastern Forest Environmental Risk Assessment Center (EFETAC), Southern Research Station, USDA Forest Service, Asheville, NC 28804, USA Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    In boreal forest regions, a great portion of forest tree seedlings are stored indoors in late autumn to prevent seedlings from outdoor winter damage. For seedlings to be able to survive in storage it is crucial that they store well and can cope with the dark and cold storage environment. The aim of this study was to search for genes that can determine the vitality status of Norway spruce ( Picea abies (L.) Karst.) seedlings during frozen storage. Furthermore, the sensitivity of the ColdNSure™ test, a gene activity test that predicts storability was assessed. The storability of seedlings was tested biweekly by evaluating damage with the gene activity test and the electrolyte leakage test after freezing seedlings to −25 °C (the SEL diff-25 method). In parallel, seedlings were frozen stored at −3 °C. According to both methods, seedlings were considered storable from week 41. This also corresponded to the post storage results determined at the end of the storage period. In order to identify vitality indicators, Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) was performed on bud samples collected during storage. Comparing physiological post storage data to gene analysis data revealed numerous vitality related genes. To validate the results, a second trial was performed. In this trial, gene activity was better in predicting seedling storability than the conventional freezing test; this indicates a high sensitivity level of this molecular assay. For multiple indicators a clear switch between damaged and vital seedlings was observed. A collection of indicators will be used in the future development of a commercial vitality test. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-14 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9320-1 Authors Eva Stattin, Dalarna University, 791 88 Falun, Sweden Nathalie Verhoef, NSure, Binnenhaven 5, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands Peter Balk, NSure, Binnenhaven 5, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands Monique van Wordragen, NSure, Binnenhaven 5, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands Anders Lindström, Dalarna University, 791 88 Falun, Sweden Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    We demonstrate, using height data from a clonal trial, how the genomic best linear unbiased predictor method (GBLUP) is ideal for determining future breeding potential in situations (either in plantations or wild stands) where high mortality due to biotic or abiotic factors has occurred. The method is effective because it does not require the development of structured pedigree or classical progeny testing, rather it uses DNA fingerprinting to determine the genealogical relationship among individuals. The resulting genetic network is known as the realized relationship matrix, which in turn is used in classical quantitative genetics analyses to determine the genetic worth of all fingerprinted individuals. Selection of desirable individuals among the surviving population is aimed at maximizing genetic diversity even when the original genetic source is unknown. This is accomplished by determining the number of founder genome equivalents which can be used to estimate the inbreeding effective population size. During the selection phase, genetic diversity can be balanced against genetic gain so that diversity is maximized while gain for any particular attribute is optimized. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-7 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9338-4 Authors Yousry A. El-Kassaby, Department of Forest Sciences, Faculty of Forestry, The University of British Columbia, 2424 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada Jaroslav Klápště, Department of Forest Sciences, Faculty of Forestry, The University of British Columbia, 2424 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada Robert D. Guy, Department of Forest Sciences, Faculty of Forestry, The University of British Columbia, 2424 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    The aim of this study was to examine the influences of early pruning and microsite conditions on the growth and health status of holm oak plantations on former agricultural land in Central-Western Spain. With that purpose, we designed a cross-sectional study to examine the effects of topographic position, gravel surface cover and accompanying vegetation cover on holm oak plantations density, growth (height and basal diameter) and health status. We surveyed three technically identical and multi-patched holm oak plantations dating from 1995, 1998 and 2003, aged 15, 12 and 7 respectively, covering an homogeneous climate and soil area of about 500 ha located in Central-Western Spain. Six hundred and seventy-two pruned and unpruned trees were sampled in 107 systematically sampled plots covering a wide range of site conditions in the studied area. At the tree level, two linear mixed effect models were adjusted for each year under study to explore the influence of pruning and microsite factors on height and diameter. Also at a tree level, a linear mixed effect model was fitted in order to analyze the influence of microsite factors and pruning on the health status of trees. At plot level, we performed a Multifactor Analysis of variance model to explore the influence of the microsite predictor variables and of the age of plantations on stocking. The results revealed that both basal diameter and height were increased by early pruning in all plantations under study. The effects on height and basal diameter of the three microsite parameters analysed varied with the age of plantations. The oldest plantations (15 years old), were affected by the surface gravel cover, while vegetation cover was significant in 12 years old plantations. Slope position was near relevant ( p  〈 0.1) only in the youngest plantations. When significant, a high surface gravel cover was directly related to higher trees and larger basal diameters. Plantations density was significantly affected by the topographic position and, in all the plantations studied, pruned trees were associated with a better health status. Overall, our results show that early pruning and microsite conditions significantly influence the growth of holm oak seedlings. These results suggest that the management and growth modelling of holm oak should take into consideration the spatial distribution of the different microsites represented. Moreover, early- pruning should be considered as a positive practice affecting not only final tree form but also the growth and health status of trees. Finally, our results should lead to for further studies and help for improving future projects in areas with similar conditions. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-17 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9335-7 Authors Luis Carlos Jovellar Lacambra, Departamento de Construcción y Agronomía, Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain Armando García Martín, Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain Roberto San Martín Fernández, Departamento de Estadística e Investigación Operativa, Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    The objective of this study is to analyse the performance of Quercus ilex plantations established under semiarid conditions on different soils formed on calcareous and gypsiferous parent material. We studied eighteen 300 m 2 plots in which 1 year-old seedlings had been planted after subsoiling on the contour. Plots were stratified according to aspect (north and south) and previous land use/parent material: shrubland on limestone (LM-SH), shrubland on gypsum rock (GY-SH), and cropland on colluvium (CO-AG). Soils developed on limestone and colluvium had average rooting depths of 27 and 37 cm, respectively, and mean concentrations of active lime and phosphorus (P) of 130 and 190 mg g −1 and 10 and 19 mg kg −1 , respectively. Soils developed on gypsum had a mean rooting depth of 26 cm, and a mean gypsum concentration of 73 %. Height and diameter of trees varied significantly according to parent material/previous land use but not to slope aspect. Mean height and diameter of trees were significantly higher in CO-AG plots than in LM-SH and GY-SH plots. Soil P and depth were the main variables explaining differences in dominant height across all 18 plots. In CO-AG plots mean height was negatively related to soil pH but positively related to soil P concentration. In LM-SH plots, mean diameter and height were negatively related to active lime concentration. This study suggests that soil P is a major determinant of holm oak performance in shallow calcareous soils and highlights the importance of conducting detailed soil studies in order to assess the viability of plantations with this species. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9337-5 Authors S. Pascual, Dept. Medi Ambient i Ciències del Sòl, Universitat de Lleida, Rovira Roure, 177, 25198 Lleida, Spain J. R. Olarieta, Dept. Medi Ambient i Ciències del Sòl, Universitat de Lleida, Rovira Roure, 177, 25198 Lleida, Spain R. Rodríguez-Ochoa, Dept. Medi Ambient i Ciències del Sòl, Universitat de Lleida, Rovira Roure, 177, 25198 Lleida, Spain Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Seedling survival and successful forest restoration involves many silvicultural practices. One important aspect of a successful forest restoration program is planting quality seedlings with high survival capability. Thus the nursery needs to create seedlings with plant attributes that allow for the best chance of success once a seedling is field planted. Since the mid-twentieth century, research foresters have critically examined plant attributes that confer improved seedling survival to field site conditions. This review describes the value of commonly measured seedling quality material (i.e. shoot height, stem diameter, root mass, shoot to root ratio, drought resistance, mineral nutrient status) and performance (i.e. freezing tolerance and root growth) plant attributes defined as important in answering the question of why seedlings survive after planting. Desirable levels of these plant attributes can increase the speed with which seedlings overcome planting stress, become ‘coupled’ to the forest restoration site, thereby ensuring successful seedling establishment. Although planting seedlings with these desirable plant attributes does not guarantee high survival rates; planting seedlings with desirable plant attributes increases chances for survival after field planting. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-28 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9336-6 Authors Steven C. Grossnickle, CellFor Inc., Saanichton, Canada Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Field performance can be predicted by evaluating nursery stock quality, but optimal morphological variables for use in these assessments may vary by species especially under dry Mediterranean conditions. Our objective was to identify initial seedling morphological characteristics that successfully predict field performance of five Mediterranean species ( Pinus halepensis , Quercus ilex , Quercus coccifera , Ceratonia silqua and Pistacia lentiscus ). Container seedling morphology was evaluated following the nursery phase, and then seedlings were outplanted in the field where field survival was monitored for two successive years. Results indicate that survival can successfully be predicted from seedling initial morphological characteristics for all these species, yet not all the initial characteristics were good predictors. Survival of P. halepensis and Pist. lentiscus seedlings was positively correlated to initial seedling root-collar diameter, total dry weight and Dickson’s quality index, and can be reliably predicted by these variables. In contrast, seedling field survival of the two Mediterranean evergreen oak species was correlated with few initial morphological attributes; initial diameter provided an accurate index to predict second-year outplanting survival for both species while height/diameter was a good survival predictor for Q. coccifera seedlings. For C. siliqua seedlings, seedlings with larger initial diameter and total biomass survive better in the field. Thus, diameter was the common variable that accurately predicted survival for all species, which should be 〉5 mm for P. halepensis seedlings and 〉7 mm for the remaining species. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9339-3 Authors Marianthi Tsakaldimi, Laboratory of Silviculture, School of Forestry and Natural Environment, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, PO Box 262, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece Petros Ganatsas, Laboratory of Silviculture, School of Forestry and Natural Environment, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, PO Box 262, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece Douglass F. Jacobs, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center, Purdue University, 715 West State Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Increasing plant size has been considered a way to improve survival and growth of planted containerized stock under dry conditions. Additionally, deep planting provides advantages to seedlings in dry areas because roots are placed deeper into the soil where there is likely more water available. In this study, we tested the effect of Zizyphus lotus stock size (300, 400 and 1,000 cm 3 container volume) and planting depth (0 cm and 15 cm below ground level, shallow and deep, respectively) with shelters in a factorial experiment in the arid coastal flats of Southeastern Spain. In the nursery, total biomass of Z. lotus produced in 1,000 cm 3 container volume averaged 219 % of those grown in 300 and 400 cm 3 , although no significant differences were found in shoot-to-root ratio or nutrient status. Root growth potential (RGP) of plants produced in 1,000 cm 3 container (209 mg of new roots dry mass) was significantly higher than those of the two other volumes (63 mg in average), but the ratio shoot mass:RGP did not vary significantly between container volumes. After outplanting, and during the first year, volumetric water content (12–20 cm deep from ground level) averaged 3.9 % higher around the deep- versus shallow- planted treatments. Predawn water potential ( ψ pd ) of seedlings measured in July of the first year differed significantly among planting depths, with lower values for shallow-planted (−3.3 MPa) than for deep-planted (−2.7 MPa) seedlings. However, predawn water potential did not differ among the three container sizes. Survival 40 months after planting was significantly higher for deep-planted seedlings (58.5 %) than for shallow ones (42.7 %), but no differences appeared for container size. PAR radiation at shoot height within the shelter was lower during winter for deep-planted seedlings than for shallow-planted seedlings, and relative differences among planting depths were reduced in summer. Based on survival results, we concluded that deep planting with seedlings of Z. lotus produced in 300 cm 3 container is a very effective way to improve planting success under the arid conditions of our experiment. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9345-5 Authors Juan A. Oliet, Department of Silvopasciculture, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain Francisco Artero, Instituto de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Centro de Investigación Forestal, Ctra. de La Coruña, 28040 Madrid, Spain Simón Cuadros, Department of Forest Engineering, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus de Rabanales, 14071 Córdoba, Spain Jaime Puértolas, Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YQ UK Lourdes Luna, Department of Forest Engineering, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus de Rabanales, 14071 Córdoba, Spain Jose M. Grau, Instituto de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Centro de Investigación Forestal, Ctra. de La Coruña, 28040 Madrid, Spain Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Pinus pseudostrobus Lindl. is a widely distributed species in Mexico that also occurs in Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador and has been tested outside its natural range in Brazil, Chile, Colombia, New Zealand, South Africa and Venezuela. Due to its great potential, it is necessary to select genotypes capable of increasing its production in the shortest possible time through genetic improvement strategies, where individuals are subjected to conditions forcing them to express their growth potential in advance. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the genetic variation among half-sib progenies and to estimate heritability ( h 2 ) of stem height (SH) and diameter (SD) for seedlings grown under different competitive conditions in a common garden trial. A split-plot experimental design with four replications and three competitive environments (treatments) was used: (I) low inter-family competition (0.25 × 0.12 m), (II) high inter-family competition (0.12 × 0.06 m), and (III) high intra-family competition; 13 half-sib families were assessed, carrying out monthly evaluations for 10 months. Estimated h 2 at individual and family-means levels for both SH and SD varied among competitive environments. For conditions I and II, a trend towards increasing h 2 with age of seedlings was shown, but for condition III, a reverse trend was observed (values close to zero). High genetic stability in SH performance was found in both I and II, and II and III, pairs of environments, as measured by the type-B genetic correlation (0.70 ≤  r B  ≤ 1.0), but it tended to decrease after 9 months, when competition increased; genetic stability in SD was lower (0.20 ≤  r B  ≤ 0.80) in both pairs of the environments that were sampled. It was concluded that the competition conditions used in field trials for genotype evaluation may significantly affect the variance components, estimation of genetic parameters and genotype stability. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-14 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9312-1 Authors Víctor Hugo Cambrón-Sandoval, Instituto de Investigaciones Agropecuarias y Forestales, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo (IIAF-UMSNH), Km 9.5 carretera, Morelia–Zinapécuaro, 58880 Tarímbaro, Michoacán, México Nahum M. Sánchez-Vargas, Instituto de Investigaciones Agropecuarias y Forestales, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo (IIAF-UMSNH), Km 9.5 carretera, Morelia–Zinapécuaro, 58880 Tarímbaro, Michoacán, México Cuauhtémoc Sáenz-Romero, Instituto de Investigaciones Agropecuarias y Forestales, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo (IIAF-UMSNH), Km 9.5 carretera, Morelia–Zinapécuaro, 58880 Tarímbaro, Michoacán, México J. Jesús Vargas-Hernández, Forestal, Colegio de Postgraduados, Km. 36.5 carretera, México-Texcoco, 56230 Montecillo, Estado de México, México María Luisa España-Boquera, Instituto de Investigaciones Agropecuarias y Forestales, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo (IIAF-UMSNH), Km 9.5 carretera, Morelia–Zinapécuaro, 58880 Tarímbaro, Michoacán, México Yvonne Herrerías-Diego, Facultad de Biología (UMSNH), Av. Francisco J. Mújica s/n, Col. Felícitas del Río, 58040 Morelia, Michoacán, México Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    The expansion of tree species within a grassland-woodland matrix relies heavily on an abundant seed crop, which may be affected by many factors; among these, browsing by livestock has gone largely ignored. Here we explore how seed production is affected by tree size, grazing by large domestic herbivores and interannual climate fluctuations in a small-sized tree ( Polylepis australis , Rosaceae), which dominates the remnant forests in the high mountains of central Argentina. Seed number and seed mass per tree were quantified in 100 different-sized trees located in areas with and without livestock. Using seed traps we also determined seed rain variation in 15 plots between 2005 and 2008. The estimated number of seeds per tree ranged from 0 to 224,000 and increased with tree height (power relation); for trees smaller than 354 cm in height, seed production was lower in areas with livestock and higher in areas without livestock. Mass per seed increased with tree height, with no significant livestock effect. The largest seed rain was recorded in 2008, probably due to growth of seed trees and not in response to climate. To promote seed production and forest expansion, livestock should be excluded from areas with small trees, such as forest edges. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9313-0 Authors Julieta Pollice, Centro de Ecología y Recursos Naturales Renovables Dr. Ricardo Luti, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Av. Vélez Sarsfield 1611, X5016GCA Córdoba, Argentina Paula Marcora, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas-CONICET-Argentina, Buenos Aires, Argentina Daniel Renison, Centro de Ecología y Recursos Naturales Renovables Dr. Ricardo Luti, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Av. Vélez Sarsfield 1611, X5016GCA Córdoba, Argentina Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung: Erratum to: Phenology, pollination and breeding system of Aegle marmelos (Linn.) Correa (Rutaceae) from India Content Type Journal Article Category Erratum Pages 1-1 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9310-3 Authors Vijay Kumar Singhal, Department of Botany, Punjabi University, Patiala, 147002 Punjab, India Atula Salwan, Department of Botany, Punjabi University, Patiala, 147002 Punjab, India Puneet Kumar, Department of Botany, Punjabi University, Patiala, 147002 Punjab, India Jaspreet Kaur, Department of Botany, Punjabi University, Patiala, 147002 Punjab, India Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    The aim of this work was to study the effects of gap size and age on natural regeneration of endangered tree species Picea mongolica W. D. Xu, which is only found in the semi-arid region of Northern China. For this purpose, six random transect belts of varying size were established in Baiyinaobao Natural Reserve. The number, height and age of P. mongolica saplings were inventoried. Results show that the total number of saplings per hectare and corresponding number and relative share of saplings in height class I (0.1–0.99 m) decreased along with increasing gap size, opposite to height class III (6–9 m). In height class II (1–5.99 m) the number of saplings per hectare and their relative share increased first slightly and then decreased with the increase of gap size. The number of saplings and their relative share in each height class changed similarly with the increase in the distance to the edge of the mature stand ( p  〈 0.05). Gap age also significantly affect the number of saplings per hectare or their height distribution except in height class II. The distance to the mature stand edge played a very important role in the success of natural regeneration for species P. mongolica . Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-14 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9318-8 Authors Chao Zhang, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Urbanization and Ecological Restoration, East China Normal University, North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai, 200062 China Chun Jing Zou, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Urbanization and Ecological Restoration, East China Normal University, North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai, 200062 China Heli Peltola, School of Forest Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, 80101 Joensuu, Finland Kai Yun Wang, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Urbanization and Ecological Restoration, East China Normal University, North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai, 200062 China Wen Duo Xu, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, 110016 China Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Plants can assimilate amino acids from soils. This has been demonstrated in controlled environments and soils of various forest ecosystems. However, the role of root-absorbed amino acids in plant nitrogen nutrition is still poorly understood. We investigated the agroecological performance and nutrient use physiology of two conifers ( Abies fraseri and Pinus resinosa ) and one hardwood species (hybrid poplar) under amino acid fertilization. Arginine fertilizer (arGrow ® Complete) was applied at varying rates (0, 56, 112, 224, and 336 kg N/ha) and compared to an inorganic control treatment (ammonium sulfate 112 kg N/ha). Parameters monitored included tree growth response, foliar nitrogen concentration, and inorganic nitrogen leaching below the rootzone. Results obtained indicate a significant growth and foliar nitrogen response to amino acid treatments, with increasing amino acid application leading to greater growth and foliar nitrogen. However, rates two to three times higher than that of the inorganic control were necessary to provide similar growth and foliar nitrogen responses. These observations were suggested to be due to competition with soil microbes for organic nitrogen, growth inhibition due to the presence of large concentrations of amino acids, or adsorption to cation exchange sites. Amino acid applications did not increase the leaching of inorganic nitrogen due either to the binding of positively charged arginine cations to exchange sites or rapid mineralization followed by plant assimilation. Mineral nitrogen collected in leachate samples increased with the application rate suggesting at least some mineralization in high amino acid application rates. We conclude that growth response and nitrogen use physiology of these species when treated with arginine are largely controlled by soil processes including microbial competition and adsorption. Further studies are being conducted to confirm these hypotheses. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9317-9 Authors Alexa R. Wilson, Department of Forestry, Michigan State University, 126 Natural Resources Bldg, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA Pascal Nzokou, Department of Forestry, Michigan State University, 126 Natural Resources Bldg, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA Deniz Güney, Department of Forestry, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey Şemsettin Kulaç, Faculty of Forestry, Düzce University, Düzce, Turkey Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Cultivating black truffle ( Tuber melanosporum Vittad.) is highly profitable in sites suitable for its development. Land use history is an important factor when choosing suitable habitat, and lands with non-ectomycorrhizal host species are recommended when introducing T. melanosporum -inoculated seedlings in order to reduce competition from native, soil-borne ectomycorrhizal (ECM) inoculum. Nearly every year Mediterranean wildfires cause the loss of forested lands where soil and climatic characteristics are suitable for truffle cultivation. Introducing T. melanosporum -inoculated seedlings in these sites could promote reforestation with a native ECM fungus and, in addition, may provide economic incentives. We tested the viability of burnt forest lands for truffle cultivation by introducing T. melanosporum -inoculated Quercus ilex seedlings in burnt forest sites with and without resprouting forest species which act as repositories for native ECM fungi. We also evaluated the role of the ECM host plants, which resprout after a forest fire, in the maintenance and dynamic processes of the ECM fungal community. The study followed a factorial design with two levels: (1) T. melanosporum -inoculated and non-inoculated Q. ilex seedlings and (2) presence and absence of ECM host plants resprouting after the fire. We established 10 experimental plots with 360 holm oaks. After four and a half years, the truffle-inoculated holm oaks maintained 36 % of their root tips colonized with T. melanosporum , and 10 years after plantations, 26.2 % of the surviving inoculated holm oaks displayed a “truffle burn” area. A greater ECM morphotype richness was associated with seedlings planted in plots with the presence of ECM host plants, whereas the T. melanosporum mycorrhizal ratio was constant. These results suggest that reforestation with T. melanosporum -inoculated seedlings can be successful following forest fires and highlights the competitiveness of this fungus within the ECM community in these soils. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-16 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9316-x Authors Juan Martínez de Aragón, Centre Tecnològic Forestal de Catalunya, Ctra. de Sant Llorenç de Morunys, km. 2, 25280 Solsona, Spain Christine Fischer, Centre Tecnològic Forestal de Catalunya, Ctra. de Sant Llorenç de Morunys, km. 2, 25280 Solsona, Spain José Antonio Bonet, Centre Tecnològic Forestal de Catalunya, Ctra. de Sant Llorenç de Morunys, km. 2, 25280 Solsona, Spain Antoni Olivera, Centre Tecnològic Forestal de Catalunya, Ctra. de Sant Llorenç de Morunys, km. 2, 25280 Solsona, Spain Daniel Oliach, Centre Tecnològic Forestal de Catalunya, Ctra. de Sant Llorenç de Morunys, km. 2, 25280 Solsona, Spain Carlos Colinas, Centre Tecnològic Forestal de Catalunya, Ctra. de Sant Llorenç de Morunys, km. 2, 25280 Solsona, Spain Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    This paper is an assessment of the effect of gap size on stand structure and species composition 48 years following treatment in a mixed broadleaf upland forest. Established in 1960, the study tests three circular openings, 15.2 m (0.02 ha), 45.7 m (0.16 ha), and 76.2 m (0.46 ha). Forty-eight years following treatment (2008) basal area, top height, and quadratic mean diameter were significantly lower in 15.2 m openings. Maple ( Acer spp.) species had the highest mean importance value across treatments (0.40). Trends suggest that species composition of dominant and codominant trees among opening sizes may have been influenced by shade tolerance adaptations of the species groups present. Whereas 15.2 m openings were dominated by shade tolerant maple species, 45.7 and 76.2 m openings produced a mixture of commercial species including shade intolerant species such as yellow-poplar ( Liriodendron tulipifera L.), trees of intermediate shade tolerance like oak ( Quercus spp.), and shade tolerant maple. Data further suggest the density of overstory oak was highest in the intermediate opening size (45.7 m), while yellow-poplar increased in the larger opening sizes. Evaluation of species shifts between 1981 and 2008 showed that relative basal area of maple increased across all treatments. Relative basal areas from 45.7 to 76.2 m openings suggest declines in yellow-poplar and other non-commercial species were balanced by increases in oak and maple. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9319-7 Authors John M. Lhotka, Department of Forestry, University of Kentucky, 210 T.P. Cooper Building, Lexington, KY 40546-0073, USA Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Performances of Pinus taxa were studied to 10 years of age in two trials in each of Misiones and Entre Ríos provinces across the Mesopotamia region of Argentina. Taxa comprised 22 populations from sources in Argentina, Australia, Brazil and Zimbabwe including Pinus elliottii var. elliottii (P ee ), Pinus caribaea var. hondurensis (P ch ), their four, inter-specific hybrids (F 1 , F 2 and backcrosses from F 1 to P ch and to P ee —all as broadly based bulks); other P ee and Pinus taeda (P t ) comprised narrower or unspecified bulks. Variable numbers of taxa were missing at each site. Mean survival across sites at age 10 years ranged 53.2–91.3% averaging 74.2%. Analysis of variance of plot means indicated population effect was statistically significant ( p  〈 0.05) for all or most growth and quality traits at all sites. However, significant differences from the nominated check seedlot at the Entre Ríos sites (P ee , Australia) were extremely rare, while quite common at the northern, Misiones sites (check seedlot a P t population). In the Misiones trials, F 1 , F 2 and both backcross hybrids showed better stem straightness than P ee and P t from Argentina, generally with statistically significant differences ( p  〈 0.05). P t showed lowest forking scores (desirable). Taxon × environment interaction was statistically significant ( p  〈 0.01) for growth traits only ( p  〉 0.05). However, this interaction contributed an average of only 34.1% of the taxon variance suggesting a lack of practical importance. Taxa most suitable for deployment in the Mesopotamia region, Argentina are suggested. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-22 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9311-2 Authors Eduardo P. Cappa, Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Instituto de Recursos Biológicos, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), De Los Reseros y Dr. Nicolás Repetto s/no, CP 1686, Hurlingham, Buenos Aires, Argentina Martín Marcó, Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), E.E.A Concordia, C.C. No 34, CP 3200 Concordia, Entre Ríos, Argentina D. Garth Nikles, Department of Employment, Economic Development & Innovation, Horticulture and Forestry Science, Level 3A West, Ecosciences Precinct, GPO Box 267, Brisbane, QLD 4001, Australia Ian S. Last, Forestry Plantations Queensland Pty Ltd, Fraser Rd, Gympie, QLD 4570, Australia Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Propagation of subtropical eucalypts is often limited by low production of rooted cuttings in winter. This study tested whether changing the temperature of Corymbia citriodora and Eucalyptus dunnii stock plants from 28/23°C (day/night) to 18/13°C, 23/18°C or 33/28°C affected the production of cuttings by stock plants, the concentrations of Ca and other nutrients in cuttings, and the subsequent percentages of cuttings that formed roots. Optimal temperatures for shoot production were 33/28°C and 28/23°C, with lower temperatures reducing the number of harvested cuttings. Stock plant temperature regulated production of rooted cuttings, firstly by controlling shoot production and, secondly, by affecting the ensuing rooting percentage. Shoot production was the primary factor regulating rooted cutting production by C. citriodora , but both shoot production and root production were key determinants of rooted cutting production in E. dunnii . Effects of lower stock plant temperatures on rooting were not the result of reduced Ca concentration, but consistent relationships were found between adventitious root formation and B concentration. Average rooting percentages were low (1–15% for C. citriodora and 2–22% for E. dunnii ) but rooted cutting production per stock plant (e.g. 25 for C. citriodora and 52 for E. dunnii over 14 weeks at 33/28°C) was sufficient to establish clonal field tests for plantation forestry. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9315-y Authors Stephen J. Trueman, Agri-Science Queensland, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD 4558, Australia Tracey V. McMahon, Faculty of Science, Health and Education, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD 4558, Australia Mila Bristow, Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation, Agri-Science Queensland, Locked Bag 16, Gympie, QLD 4570, Australia Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Eucalyptus globulus is the most important forest species in Uruguay, with more than 250,000 ha of commercial plantations. Despite its high susceptibility to diseases, production losses caused by foliar diseases have not been properly quantified in this country. This study analyzes the effects of foliar damage on growth and survival using data from a progeny test of E. globulus naturally infected by Teratosphaeria leaf disease and eucalypt rust ( Puccinia psidii ). The severity of leaf spots and defoliation were quantified 8 months after planting and tree growth and mortality were evaluated 2, 4 and 6 years later. The trial had a high incidence of foliar damage, with a mean leaf spot severity of 28.7% and a mean defoliation of 37%. The greatest impact of foliar damage, both on growth rate and mortality, occurred in the first 2 years after damage was assessed. During this period, leaf spot severity less than 40% and defoliation below 50% did not affect growth, while survival was affected when leaf damage was 70% or greater. By the sixth year both stem growth and survival were affected by severe foliar damage (spotting or defoliation of 80% or more), with a loss of up to 25% in diameter and an accumulated mortality over 70%. It has been established for the first time that under the intensive Uruguayan productive conditions, E. globulus trees can tolerate a relatively high degree of leaf spotting or defoliation but severe foliar damage in the first months can cause considerable production losses, putting at risk the economical viability of this species. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9314-z Authors Gustavo Balmelli, Programa Nacional Forestal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), Ruta 5, Km 386, Tacuarembó, Uruguay Sofía Simeto, Programa Nacional Forestal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), Ruta 5, Km 386, Tacuarembó, Uruguay Nora Altier, Programa Nacional Forestal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (INIA), Ruta 5, Km 386, Tacuarembó, Uruguay Virginia Marroni, Plant and Food Research, Private Bag 4704, Christchurch, New Zealand Julio J. Diez, Departamento de Producción Vegetal y Recursos Forestales, Instituto de Gestión Forestal Sostenible, Universidad de Valladolid, Avenida Madrid 44, Palencia, Spain Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Aspen ( Populus tremuloides Michx.) and white spruce ( Picea glauca (Moench.) Voss) were planted 0.5 m apart in intimate mixtures in 5 × 4 m plots, with two moisture regimes—irrigation versus control—and five species compositions—pure aspen (Aw100), mixed aspen and spruce (Aw83Sw17, Aw50Sw50, Aw17Sw83), and pure spruce (Sw100), replicated six times. Fifth-year assessments indicated that irrigation increased individual tree growth (height, RCD, crown width), plot leaf area index (LAI), and wood biomass. Increased aspen composition reduced the availability of soil moisture and consequently the growth of individual trees. With increased aspen composition more growth was allocated to stem in aspen and to foliage in white spruce. Comparatively, aspen responded more to irrigation and thus their growth is more dependent on precipitation than that of spruce. Among the three growth variables assessed, height responded more to irrigation in both species. Equal mixtures and aspen-dominated mixtures in control plots had higher productivity in terms of total wood biomass in both absolute and relative terms. The implications of these findings are discussed in relation to managing aspen and white spruce mixedwood forests under increasing drought expected as a result of climate change. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-16 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9297-1 Authors Rongzhou Man, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Ontario Forest Research Institute, 1235 Queen St. E., Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 2E5, Canada Ken J. Greenway, Alberta Sustainable Resource Development, 9920—108th Street, Edmonton, AB T5K 2M4, Canada Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    We have evaluated the effects of improving substrate fertility on the growth and reproduction of a P. halepensis plantation in a restored limestone quarry on a stony calcareous regolith (R plots). The natural substrate was supplemented by adding a 0.2 m layer of a fine textured soil (RS plots) or a sewage sludge amended soil (RSS plots). The treatments were performed when the pines were 7 years old, and tree growth (height and trunk and canopy diameter) was monitored over the subsequent 12 years. The reproductive status of the trees was also measured when the pines were 20 years old. Tree growth was proportional to the amount of soil nutrients: 12 years after treatment the mean height of the R, RS and RSS trees was 1.5, 3.1 and 6.2 m respectively and growth increases over the baseline were 76, 264 and 632%. The treatment also affected the age of onset of reproduction (15, 11 and 9 years, respectively), the average number of cones per tree (12, 43 and 61), and the amount of seeds per cone (37, 52 and 72), but did not modify the germination percentage of pine seeds (ca 71.5%). Soil organic carbon increased proportionally to the vegetation development, contributing to carbon sequestration. These results suggest that improving the nutritional status of the soil not only improves the growth of trees, but it also ameliorates their reproductive ability (earlier reproduction onset and larger seed crop size). Implications for soil restoration through afforestation are also discussed. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-17 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9286-4 Authors O. Ortiz, CREAF (Center for Ecological Research and Forestry Applications), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain G. Ojeda, Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, IMAR—Institute of Marine Research, University of Coimbra, 3004-517 Coimbra, Portugal J. M. Espelta, CREAF (Center for Ecological Research and Forestry Applications), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain J. M. Alcañiz, CREAF (Center for Ecological Research and Forestry Applications), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Tropical forests are large reservoirs of biomass and there is a need for information on existing carbon stocks in these ecosystems and especially the effects of logging on these stocks. Reliable estimates of aboveground biomass stocks within the Atlantic Forest are rarely available. Past human disturbance is an important factor affecting forest structure variation and biomass accumulation among tropical forest ecosystems. To support the efforts of improving the quality of estimations of the current and future biomass carbon storage capacity of this disturbed forest region we tested a non-experimental small scale approach to compare the aboveground tree biomass (AGB) of forest sites. Three sites with known disturbance histories have been investigated: complete cut down, selective logging and conservation since 70 years. The woody plant community (dbh ≥ 10 cm) was censused and canopy openness in conjunction with leaf area index has been obtained by hemispherical photographs at each site. Estimates of aboveground tree biomass have been carried out using an allometric equation for moist tropical forests already applied for the study area. Additionally, a FAO standard equation has been employed for crosschecking our results. We identified significant differences in recent AGB of the three compared forest sites. With 313 (±48 Mg ha −1 ) the highest AGB-values have been found in the preserved forest area within a National Park, followed by 297 (±83) Mg ha −1 at the former clear cut site. Lowest AGB has been calculated for the area with past selective logging: 204 (±38) Mg ha −1 . Values calculated with the FAO standard equation showed the same trend but at a lower AGB level. Our results based an a small scale approach suggest that biomass productivity can recover in a forest which was completely cleared 60 years ago to reach AGB values up to a level that almost represents the situation in a preserved forest. Selective logging may slow down AGB accumulation and the effect is measurable after several decades. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9281-9 Authors André Lindner, Department of Systematic Botany and Functional Biodiversity, Institute for Biology I, University of Leipzig, Johannisallee 21-23, 04103 Leipzig, Germany Dietmar Sattler, Department of Physical Geography and Geo-Ecology, Institute for Geography, University of Leipzig, Johannisallee 19, 04103 Leipzig, Germany Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Eastern white pine ( Pinus strobus L.) is a moderately shade-tolerant species that co-occurs with hardwood tree species in many forests of the eastern United States, as well as in pure stands. The species is valued for its timber, as well as for wildlife and recreation. Regeneration of this species is somewhat unpredictable and often occurs in patches of similarly-aged cohorts. We described the regeneration patterns of this species and examined their relation to environmental variables within hardwood forests of southwestern Virginia, USA. An average of 5.3 white pine patches per ha were observed in this study. The majority of patches consisted of saplings (85%), with 9% of patches in pole size classes, and 6% in seedling size classes. The average density of patches was 43.5 stems with an average age of 20 years. The size of patches averaged 80.6 m 2 . The total density of seedlings and the number of regeneration patches of all sizes of regeneration (seedlings, saplings, and poles) in plots was related to the surrounding density of large white pine trees (potential seed trees). The density of seedlings or patches was not significantly related to current vegetation cover or soil surface cover variables, but more than half of regeneration patches were located in or adjacent to old canopy gaps, most of which were old logging gaps. While seedling regeneration may occur within the understory of these forests near seed trees, advancement to the sapling and pole stage appears to be associated with canopy gap formation. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9300-x Authors Todd S. Fredericksen, Ferrum College, Ferrum, VA 24088, USA Angel Rolando Endara Agramont, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Toluca, Mexico Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Populus euphratica is a salt tolerant species, and Populus  ×  canescens is a salt sensitive species. Because stress tolerance is mediated by an array of overlapping defense mechanisms, we hypothesized that P. euphratica would confer co-tolerance to heavy metal stress. To test this hypothesis, both poplar species were exposed to 50 μM Cd for 24 h in hydroponic solutions. For the analyses of stress symptoms in roots and leaves, we used nutrient element concentrations and transcriptional responses of 28 stress- and defense-related genes. The roots showed strong Cd accumulation, but less in P. euphratica than in P.  ×  canescens . In contrast, the leaves of P. euphratica accumulated 10-times more Cd than those of P . ×  canescens . Cd-stressed leaves of P. euphratica displayed water loss and wilting. Both species revealed contrasting transcriptional responses of defense genes to Cd stress. In P. euphratica , glutathione reductase, dehydroascorbate reductase and glutathione S -transferases of the theta and tau classes showed increases in transcript levels in response to Cd, pointing to oxidative stress and a strong activation of detoxification mechanisms. In contrast, in P . ×  canescens transcript levels of genes involved in signaling, activation of, and protection from drought stress were significantly increased including glutathione S -transferases of the phi class (early response to dehydration). Our data show that P. euphratica salt tolerance does not confer Cd tolerance and suggest that failure to activate early protection contributed to higher Cd sensitivity in P. euphratica than in P . ×  canescens . Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9301-9 Authors A. Polle, Department of Forest Botany and Tree Physiology, Büsgen-Institut, Georg-August Universität Göttingen, Büsgenweg 2, 37077 Göttingen, Germany T. Klein, Laboratory for Radio-Isotopes, Georg-August Universität Göttingen, Büsgenweg 2, 37077 Göttingen, Germany C. Kettner, Department of Forest Botany and Tree Physiology, Büsgen-Institut, Georg-August Universität Göttingen, Büsgenweg 2, 37077 Göttingen, Germany Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Natural resource conservation and rehabilitation are the best options to control land degradation and enhance biomass for fodder and fuelwood. Rainwater harvesting structures viz. Contour trench (CT), gradonie (G), box trench (BT) and V-ditch (VD) with a control were prepared in 〈10%, 10–20% and 〉20% slopes and Acacia catechu L. seedlings were planted in August 2005 to enhance soil water, nutrient and biomass and to rehabilitate degraded hill. Soil pH, SOC and NH 4 -N decreased while EC, NO 3 -N and PO 4 -P increased in June 2009. Soil water, nutrients, plant growth and biomass were highest ( P  〈 0.05) in 〈10% and lowest in 10–20% slopes. Soil waters were 13 and 52% greater in 〉20 and 〈10% than in soil at 10–20% slope. The soil waters were 18, 16, 24 and 14% greater in CT, G, BT and VD treatments, respectively over control, which enhanced plant height and collar diameter in December 2009 over 2005. The highest growth and biomass were in CT and VD plots, respectively. Herbage biomass was highest ( P  〈 0.05) in 〈10% slope in 2005, 10–20% slope in 2006/2008 and 〉20% slope in 2007/2009. Harvesting of rainwater increased herbage biomass by 24–71%, and was highest in VD plots. Conclusively, rainwater harvesting enhanced soil water, nutrients, vegetation covers and plant growth and biomass during restoration of degraded hills. Gradonie and CT/BT facilitated herbage and plant growth, respectively, whereas V-ditch was effective for both. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-16 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9285-5 Authors G. Singh, Division of Forest Ecology, Arid Forest Research Institute, New Pali Road, Jodhpur, 342005 India Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Gmelina arborea is a valuable plantation tree species that is native to South and Southeast Asia. In this study, 534 samples representing 19 natural populations in India, China, Thailand and Myanmar were analyzed with 10 polymorphic microsatellite markers. The genetic diversity analysis revealed highly polymorphic loci (N a  = 16.4), a good level of genetic diversity (H o  = 0.56; H e  = 0.83) and the deficiency of heterozygotes in G. arborea populations evidenced by positive fixation index and deviation from Hardy–Weinberg Equilibrium in all loci and most populations. The Analysis of Molecular Variance attributed 21, 10 and 69% of total genetic diversity to among-region, among-population (within region) and within-population variation. Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Mean dendrogram and Principle Coordinate Analysis revealed three separate clusters composed of China, India and Thailand/Myanmar that were consistent with geographical distance and the presence of natural barriers to gene flow. Populations from within India grouped together genetically consistent with geographical locations, with the exception of the Nowgong population (eastern India), that might have originated from the Kasa area (western India) with which it has high genetic similarity. Understanding genetic diversity and structure of G. arborea populations serve as an important reference for tree breeding programs and conservation strategy. Breeding populations of G. arborea should include selections from each of the major geographic regions to maximize genetic diversity and heterosis. Vegetative propagated clones of elite trees can be used for plantation to address the issue of high level of segregation among seed derived plants. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-18 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9288-2 Authors Alison K. S. Wee, Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore, 117543 Singapore ChunHong Li, Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, National University of Singapore, 1 Research Link, Singapore, 117604 Singapore William S. Dvorak, Camcore, Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA Yan Hong, Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, National University of Singapore, 1 Research Link, Singapore, 117604 Singapore Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Interspecific hybrids of Eucalyptus urophylla S. T. Blake ×  E. tereticornis Smith were used for quantitative genetic analysis of cold hardiness ( CH ) and growth traits height ( H ), diameter at breast height ( D ) and volume ( V ) at 0.5, 1.5, 2.5 and 4 years of age. The effect of E. tereticornis male variance was significant ( P  〈 0.05) for CH as well as 2.5- and 4-year-old growth except for H 4 , and E. urophylla female ×  E. tereticornis male interaction was significant for 0.5- and 1.5-year-old growth and CH except for CH 0.5 , whereas E. urophylla female effect was not significant for the majority of traits analyzed. Both additive and dominance gene action were present in the genetics of all the traits measured at most ages, indicating that those traits may be improved by hybrid breeding. The σ D 2 / σ A 2 ratios tended to decline after 1.5 years of age in CH and growth traits, implying that breeding value predictions derived from older performance might be more reliable. Estimates of narrow-sense heritability ( h 2 ) for CH and growth ranged from 0.03 ± 0.05 to 0.28 ± 0.13, depending on trait and age. Additive genetic correlations between CH and V were 0.28 ± 0.48 and 0.69 ± 0.30 at ages 1.5 and 2.5, respectively, suggesting that selection for growth would cause a favorable increase in cold hardiness in E. urophylla  ×  E. tereticornis hybrids. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-12 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9287-3 Authors Xudong He, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry and National Key Laboratory of Forest Tree Genetics and Breeding, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Longdong, Guangzhou, 510520 People’s Republic of China Fagen Li, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry and National Key Laboratory of Forest Tree Genetics and Breeding, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Longdong, Guangzhou, 510520 People’s Republic of China Mei Li, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry and National Key Laboratory of Forest Tree Genetics and Breeding, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Longdong, Guangzhou, 510520 People’s Republic of China Qijie Weng, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry and National Key Laboratory of Forest Tree Genetics and Breeding, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Longdong, Guangzhou, 510520 People’s Republic of China Jisen Shi, The Key Laboratory of Forest Genetics and Biotechnology of Ministry of Education, Nanjing Forestry University, 159 Longpan Road, Nanjing, 210037 People’s Republic of China Xiaoyong Mo, College of Forestry, South China Agricultural University, 284 Block, Wushan Street, Guangzhou, 510642 People’s Republic of China Siming Gan, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry and National Key Laboratory of Forest Tree Genetics and Breeding, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Longdong, Guangzhou, 510520 People’s Republic of China Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Land use changes are complex ecological processes driven by the interaction of biophysical and human related factors. The prediction of forest land use changes is important for sustainable forest management and biodiversity conservation. This study investigates the modelling process of the spatial dynamics of a forest ecosystem in north eastern Greece. For the prediction of forest expansion, based on land use data of the study area, a deterministic approach using logistic regression and heuristic methods of multi-criteria evaluation is adopted. The set of factors driving forest expansion are: the slope, the distance to roads, the distance to urban areas, the distance to forest, the soil depth, the soil erosion and the influence from the land uses of the neighbourhood. The spatial autocorrelation of driving factors is addressed using an autologistic regression model. The multicriteria evaluation approach is developed using weighted linear combination (WLC) and ordered weighted averaging (OWA) methods. In WLC method the relative importance of each factor was estimated using the analytical hierarchy process. In the OWA method, decision strategies are generated using a selection of relative linguistic quantifiers, which allow different Risk in decisions. The accuracy of the models produced was tested with real data for the year 2001 using the ROC validation method. All the methods produced satisfactory results. Autologistic regression showed slightly better performance than multicriteria evaluation methods due to higher degree of objectivity in defining the importance of driving factors for forest expansion. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-19 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9308-x Authors Dimitrios P. Triantakonstantis, Laboratory of Soils and Agricultural Chemistry, Agricultural University of Athens, Botanikos, 75 Iera Odos, 11855 Athens, Greece Dionissios P. Kalivas, Laboratory of Soils and Agricultural Chemistry, Agricultural University of Athens, Botanikos, 75 Iera Odos, 11855 Athens, Greece Vassiliki J. Kollias, Laboratory of Soils and Agricultural Chemistry, Agricultural University of Athens, Botanikos, 75 Iera Odos, 11855 Athens, Greece Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    There is growing interest in the use of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) for ecological restoration. Numerous commercial AMF products are now available and are often used in preference to collecting indigenous AMF in treating restoration plants. Commercial AMF products are typically based on AMF strains exotic to the plant species and locations where they are used. We treated rooted cuttings of an endemic New Zealand tree species ( Podocarpus cunninghamii ) and an exotic and invasive grass ( Agrostis capillaris ) with an indigenous, pot-cultured AMF ( Acaulospora laevis ) and an exotic commercial AMF product ( Glomus spp.). P. cunninghamii was grown in monoculture and together with A. capillaris , the latter to simulate field competition that often occurs in restoration plantings. In monoculture, the indigenous AMF resulted in significant increases in P. cunninghamii growth rates and tissue concentrations of both nitrogen and phosphorus. The commercial AMF had either no effect or a negative effect on P. cunninghamii growth and nutrient levels. A. capillaris growth and nutrient status were unaffected by the different AMF treatments. Competition eliminated any AMF benefit for P. cunninghamii . The results show that, for our chosen indigenous woody plant species, the commercially available AMF did not improve its early growth and nutrient acquisition in monoculture while, over the same period, the indigenous AMF induced positive growth and nutrient responses. These results have potential implications for forest restoration, particularly for nursery production of indigenous woody species. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9309-9 Authors Alwyn Williams, Rural Ecology Research Group, School of Forestry, University of Canterbury, Private Bag 4800, Christchurch, 8140 New Zealand Hayley J. Ridgway, Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Lincoln University, Lincoln, 7647 New Zealand David A. Norton, Rural Ecology Research Group, School of Forestry, University of Canterbury, Private Bag 4800, Christchurch, 8140 New Zealand Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    The future of South Africa’s most important pine species, Pinus patula , is threatened by the pitch canker fungus, Fusarium circinatum . Pinus maximinoi and P. tecunumanii represent two subtropical species that provide an alternative to planting P. patula on the warmer sites of South Africa. Extending the planting range of P. tecunumanii and P. maximinoi to include higher and colder altitude sites will reduce the area planted to P. patula and the risk of F. circinatum . During 2007 progeny trials of P. tecunumanii and P. maximinoi were planted on a sub-tropical and sub-temperate site. Shortly after the establishment of these trials, unusually cold weather conditions were experienced across South Africa (−3°C at the sub-temperate site) resulting in severe mortality. This provided the opportunity to assess the variation in survival as a measure of frost tolerance within these two species to determine whether it could be improved upon through selection. Results indicated that the variation in survival was under genetic control in P. tecunumanii (h (0,1) 2  = 0.16, h L 2  = 0.27) and P. maximinoi (h (0,1) 2  = 0.11, h L 2  = 0.23) at the sub-temperate site. Correlations in provenance ranking for survival across sites were high for both species. Moderate correlations in family survival for P. tecunumanii ( r  = 0.52) were found at the two sites. Improvements in cold tolerance can thus be made in both species extending their planting range to include greater areas planted to P. patula thereby limiting the risk of F. circinatum . Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-12 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9306-z Authors R. G. Mitchell, York Timbers, Tree Breeding Division, Sabie, South Africa M. J. Wingfield, Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa G. R. Hodge, Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA W. S. Dvorak, Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA T. A. Coutinho, Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Abies fabri (Mast.) Craib is an endemic and dominant species in typical sub-alpine dark coniferous forests distributed in mountainous regions of the eastern Tibetan Plateau, China. We investigated the ecophysiological responses of A. fabri seedlings to short-term artificially-applied drought, nitrogen addition alone, and the combination of these treatments. Drought was created by excluding natural precipitation with an automatically controlled plastic roof that covered the seedlings. Nitrogen fertilization was applied weekly by spraying over seedlings with ammonium nitrate solution. Experiment results showed that drought caused a reduction in photosynthetic nitrogen use efficiency and leaf mass per area. Nitrogen addition enhanced photosynthetic performance by increasing net photosynthetic rate. In the drought plots, nitrogen addition increased net photosynthetic rate and instantaneous water use efficiency. These results showed that applied nitrogen improved plant water use efficiency and N accumulation in plant organs under drought conditions. Especially under drought conditions more N was concentrated into needles by applied nitrogen as compared with other organs. In conclusion, our results indicated that the combination of nitrogen addition and drought may result in positive effects on A. fabri seedlings in the short-term. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-14 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9295-3 Authors Yan Yang, Institute of Mountain Hazards and Environment, The Alpine Ecosystem Observation and Experiment Station of the Gongga Mountain, Chinese Academy of Sciences, #9, Block 4, Renminnanlu Road, Chengdu, 610041 People’s Republic of China Jianying Guo, Institute of Mountain Hazards and Environment, The Alpine Ecosystem Observation and Experiment Station of the Gongga Mountain, Chinese Academy of Sciences, #9, Block 4, Renminnanlu Road, Chengdu, 610041 People’s Republic of China Genxu Wang, Institute of Mountain Hazards and Environment, The Alpine Ecosystem Observation and Experiment Station of the Gongga Mountain, Chinese Academy of Sciences, #9, Block 4, Renminnanlu Road, Chengdu, 610041 People’s Republic of China Liudong Yang, Institute of Mountain Hazards and Environment, The Alpine Ecosystem Observation and Experiment Station of the Gongga Mountain, Chinese Academy of Sciences, #9, Block 4, Renminnanlu Road, Chengdu, 610041 People’s Republic of China Yang Yang, Institute of Mountain Hazards and Environment, The Alpine Ecosystem Observation and Experiment Station of the Gongga Mountain, Chinese Academy of Sciences, #9, Block 4, Renminnanlu Road, Chengdu, 610041 People’s Republic of China Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    We examined the effects of various mechanical site preparation methods and windrow burning on container-grown planted lodgepole pine ( Pinus contorta var . latifolia ) survival and growth for 20 years after treatment at a sub-boreal site in north-central British Columbia, Canada. Survival was uniformly high (≥80%) regardless of treatment, indicating that site preparation was not necessary to establish pine on this site. Significant treatment effects on height, diameter, and stem volume were present at all assessment dates, but only the windrow burning treatment was associated with growth gains over the untreated control after two decades. Pine planted at the disk trench hinge were significantly larger than control pine only until year five. Of the mechanical treatments, only coarse mixing (by bedding plow) continued to have a significant effect on pine growth for as many as 9 years after treatment. Despite the disappearance of significant differences between mechanical treatments and the untreated control by year 20, the magnitude of stand volume increases suggests the potential for mechanical site preparation to have a beneficial effect on future timber supply. Repeated measures analysis confirmed that trends in early diameter growth differed between the untreated control and the windrow burning or coarse mixing treatments. These data are also potentially valuable for verifying growth and yield or carbon budgeting modelling tools. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-16 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9292-6 Authors Jacob O. Boateng, BC Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, Resource Practices Branch, PO Box 9513 Stn. Prov. Govt., Victoria, BC V8W 9C2, Canada Jean L. Heineman, J. Heineman Forestry Consulting, 2125 E. 5th Ave., Vancouver, BC V5N 1M5, Canada Lorne Bedford, BC Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, Resource Practices Branch, PO Box 9513 Stn. Prov. Govt., Victoria, BC V8W 9C2, Canada Amanda F. Linnell Nemec, International Statistics and Research Corp., P.O. Box 39, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1R3, Canada John McClarnon, BC Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, Resource Practices Branch, PO Box 9513 Stn. Prov. Govt., Victoria, BC V8W 9C2, Canada R. Allan Powelson, BC Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, Resource Practices Branch, PO Box 9513 Stn. Prov. Govt., Victoria, BC V8W 9C2, Canada Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Two Burkholderia strains 8111 and 8201 were isolated from root nodules of Dalbergia odorifera , an endemic woody legume in southern China. Phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA gene and 16S-23S gene intergenic spacer (ITS) showed that these two bacterial strains were closely related to Burkholderia cepacia and they were also similar in carbon source utilization using Biolog GN2 plate tests. The DNA G+C content of strains 8111 and 8201 were 65.8 and 65.5 mol%. Inoculation tests demonstrated that both strains 8111 and 8201 formed functional root nodules in their original host D. odorifera , and significantly enhanced plant growth (as measured by plant biomass and nitrogen content), compared to the no-inoculated control plants. Sequencing of 16S rRNA gene in nodules of D. odorifera seedlings inoculated with strains 8111 and 8201 confirmed their identity. However, these two strains did not induce root nodulation in Acacia auriculiformis and Erythrophleum fordii . This implies that the nodulation capacity between Burkholderia strains 8111 or 8201 and their legume hosts may be specific. Our results show that both Burkholderia strains 8111 and 8201 are able to form functional nodules on D. odorifera and are potentially beneficial inoculants for seedling propagation to be used in large scale D. odorifera plantations. Content Type Journal Article Category Report Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9290-8 Authors J. K. Lu, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Guangzhou, 510520 Guangdong, The People’s Republic of China X. H. He, Centre for Ecosystem Management, School of Natural Resources, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA 6027, Australia L. B. Huang, Centre for Mined Land Rehabilitation, Sustainable Minerals Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia L. H. Kang, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Guangzhou, 510520 Guangdong, The People’s Republic of China D. P. Xu, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Guangzhou, 510520 Guangdong, The People’s Republic of China Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    The increasing threats from pests and diseases demand that the South African forest industry explores options to deploy alternative pine species in plantation development. This is especially true for species, such as Pinus patula Schiede and Deppe ex Schltdl. and Cham., which are highly susceptible to the pitch canker fungus Fusarium circinatum . Losses due to F. circinatum have been confined mostly to nurseries and at field establishment resulting in a significant cost to the industry. Although, the fungus has not as yet resulted in stem and branch infections on established P. patula in South Africa, it has caused pitch canker on other, more susceptible species such as P. radiata D. Don., and P. greggii Engelm. ex Parl. As alternatives to P. patula , on the warmer and cooler sites in South Africa, families of P. elliottii Engelm var. elliottii , P. tecunumanii (Schw.) Eguiluz and Perry, P. maximinoi H. E. Moore and P. pseudostrobus Lindl. were screened for tolerance to infection by F. circinatum in greenhouse studies. Seedlings were wounded and inoculated with spores of F. circinatum . Lesion development following inoculation was used to differentiate the levels of tolerance between families. The results showed that P. maximinoi , P. pseudostrobus , and the low elevation variety of P. tecunumanii are highly tolerant to infection with very little family variation. The narrow sense heritability estimates for these species were less than 0.06. In contrast, P. elliottii showed good tolerance with some family variation and a heritability of 0.22, while the high elevation source of P. tecunumanii showed a high degree of family variation and a heritability of 0.59. These results provide the industry with valuable information on pine species tolerant to F. circinatum that could be used as alternatives to P. patula in South Africa. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-17 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9293-5 Authors R. G. Mitchell, York Timbers, Sabie, South Africa M. J. Wingfield, Forests and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa G. R. Hodge, Camcore, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA E. T. Steenkamp, Forests and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa T. A. Coutinho, Forests and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Sphagnum peat has been the most commonly used growing medium in containers in tree nurseries worldwide for its good growing properties. As a result of increasing costs and environmental incentives, seedling-growers are seeking more local growing medium components such as composts. Composts are, however, diverse products with varying chemical, physical, and hygienic properties and therefore require thorough testing before real-world use. In this study, a commonly used compost (raw materials: sewage sludge, biowaste, peat, wood chips) was tested for feasibility as a component (0–30 vol.%) of a sphagnum peat container medium for growing Norway spruce ( Picea abies (L.) Karst.) container seedlings in a forest-tree nursery. In proportions of up to 30% in peat, the compost additive used was shown to be a feasible material for seedling growing in forest nurseries. On average, the seedlings grew best in pure peat, but the compost additions to peat showed no marked reduction in seedling growth in greenhouses, nor were there any effect on seedling growth in the first summer after outplanting. However, a slightly elevated risk of seed non-germination and of seedling mortality was observed when the growing media contained compost in proportions of 20% or more. The compost additive in peat also changed the bulk density, structure, and chemical properties of the medium during nursery growing. The results suggest that seedling watering and fertilisation should be adjusted for each growing medium mix separately to achieve correct water, oxygen, and nutrient availability in containers during nursery growing. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-18 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9304-6 Authors Juha Heiskanen, Suonenjoki Research Unit, Finnish Forest Research Institute, Juntintie 154, 77600 Suonenjoki, Finland Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Although bigleaf mahogany ( Swietenia macrophylla King) is one of the most important commercial timber species in the neotropics, little is known about its site preferences in the Yucatan Peninsula. We evaluated the association of mahogany with soil characteristics using the easily observed characteristics of soil color, stoniness, and relief position. The study was conducted in a commercially managed, medium-height, semi-evergreen, dry tropical forest. A total of 609 mahogany were located along 119 km of transects established in the forest. Forest site conditions were classified in 2,464, 0.78 m 2 circular plots located systematically along transects, and site conditions of mahogany along the transects were recorded for the area within 1 m radius of each tree. Mahogany preferred level sites with 93% occurring on level conditions compared to 75% for forest site plots ( P  〈 0.001). There was also a preference for black soils (76% of mahogany versus 68% of forest site plots) and a negative preference for red soils (17% versus 27%, P  〈 0.001). Observed soil site preferences can improve management decisions, including where to plant mahogany and where to apply silvicultural treatments, such as liberation thinning. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9303-7 Authors Patricia Negreros-Castillo, Instituto de Investigaciones Forestales, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Mexico Carl W. Mize, Natural Resource Ecology and Management, Iowa State University, Santos Degollado #81-5, 91000 Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Stem-girdling treatments were applied in early spring to stimulate cone formation in two genotypes of interior Douglas-fir ( Pseudotsuga menziesii var. glauca (Beissn.) Franco). After girdling treatments, male cone yield increased significantly in the next growing season. The increase was 14-fold in genotype 9137. In genotype 9550, more than 8,700 male cones were induced from each tree whereas no male cones were found in controls. Female cone yield was zero in controls and low for girdled trees in both genotypes. Multiple phytohormone-related compounds, including gibberellins (GAs), cytokinins, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), abscisic acid (ABA) and their selected metabolites, were analyzed in developing long shoots after girdling treatments by high performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–ESI–MS/MS) in multiple reaction monitoring mode. Concentrations of GA 4 were slightly higher at week 2 following girdling treatment, whereas at week 8 lower GA 4 concentrations were found in girdled samples. Stem girdling did not affect concentrations of IAA and major cytokinins, such as zeatin riboside and isopentenyl adenosine. Concentrations of ABA differed two-fold between the genotypes. Although girdling treatment did not cause differences in ABA concentrations, it generally resulted in higher concentrations of ABA glucose ester. Concentration increase of 7′-hydroxy ABA by girdling was only found in genotype 9550 at week 8. Girdling caused little change in concentrations of phaseic acid in both genotypes. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9294-4 Authors Lisheng Kong, Centre for Forest Biology, University of Victoria, 3800 Finnerty Rd., Victoria, BC V8W 3N5, Canada Patrick von Aderkas, Centre for Forest Biology, University of Victoria, 3800 Finnerty Rd., Victoria, BC V8W 3N5, Canada Stacey J. Owen, Plant Biotechnology Institute, National Research Council of Canada, 110 Gymnasium Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W9, Canada Barry Jaquish, Tree Improvement Branch, BC Ministry of Forests, Lands & Natural Resource Operations, Kalamalka Forestry Centre, 3401 Reservoir Rd., Vernon, BC V1B 2C7, Canada Jack Woods, SelectSeed Company Ltd., 3250 West 15th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V6K 3A9, Canada Suzanne R. Abrams, Plant Biotechnology Institute, National Research Council of Canada, 110 Gymnasium Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W9, Canada Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    This study examines the ecological niche of American chestnut ( Castanea dentata (Marsh.) Borkh) and the latest blight resistant American chestnut × Chinese chestnut ( Castanea mollissima Blume) hybrids. Planted seedlings of chestnut, tulip poplar ( Liriodendron tulipifera L.) and chestnut oak ( Quercus prinus L.) were subjected to two levels of light and two soil types in parallel field and greenhouse studies. The field study took place in the Appalachian ridge and valley province of Virginia. Growth and survival were quantified after three growing seasons. The interaction between light levels and topographic position (soil type) was significant for growth rates in the field and greenhouse. Species were significantly different from each other although hybrid varieties were not significantly different from each other or from pure American chestnut. Tulip poplar showed the greatest growth rates under all treatments in the field. Both tulip poplar and chestnut had the greatest growth rates in large gaps within mesic, mid and lower slope (MML) sites in the field. In contrast to growth, optimal conditions for survival differed among species. Tulip poplar had the greatest survival (71%) within large gaps in MML sites while chestnuts and oaks had the greatest overall survival (64%) in small gaps within xeric, upper slope and ridge (XUR) sites. In the greenhouse, tulip poplar did not outperform chestnut. Discrepancies in field and greenhouse studies were accounted for by uncontrolled factors, such as rodent predation. We conclude that optimal sites for planting American chestnut hybrids are in small gaps located within XUR sites. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9291-7 Authors H. P. Griscom, James Madison University, MSC 7801, Harrisonburg, VA 22807, USA B. W. Griscom, The Nature Conservancy, 4245 N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA 22203, USA Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Morphological and biochemical changes of Chinese horse chestnut ( Aesculus chinensis Bge.) seeds were studied during the process of maturation. Fruit and seed diameter increased linearly from DPA (Days Post Anthesis) 60 to DPA 150 and were stable thereafter. The weight of fruit and seed increased sigmoidally between DPA 100 and DPA 160. The water contents of whole seeds, axes and cotyledons had a sharp reduction from DPA 110 to DPA 130 but changed little after DPA 130. The water contents of whole seeds, axes and cotyledons were 1.42, 1.93 and 1.30 g g −1 DW, respectively at the end of maturation. The starch content of cotyledons from mature seeds was high on a dry weight basis (31.4%) while the total soluble sugar content varied between 12 and 20%. In both axes and cotyledons, the total soluble sugar content decreased during the process of maturation, as did all five soluble sugar components measured (glucose, sucrose, trehalose, raffinose and stachyose). Sucrose and stachyose contents remained relatively high at the time of seed maturation, followed by glucose and a trace level of trehalose. The oligosaccharide/disaccharide (O/D) ratio in the axes was 3.1 at DPA 140. The high level of sucrose and stachyose might contribute to the greater desiccation tolerance of Aesculus chinensis seeds relative to typical recalcitrant tropical seeds. High levels of ABA content in seed coats and a low GA 3 /ABA ratio in both seed coats and axes might also influence the desiccation tolerance and shallow dormancy of mature Aesculus chinensis seeds. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-12 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9289-1 Authors Fangyuan Yu, College of Forest Resources and Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037 People’s Republic of China Shufen Chen, College of Forest Resources and Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037 People’s Republic of China Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    The success of direct seeding, as a low-cost approach to forest restoration, varies with tree species and seed characteristics. A system to predict which tree species are likely to be suitable for direct seeding would therefore be useful for improving forest restoration projects. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effects of seed traits on the success of direct seeding to restore tropical forest in southern Thailand. Seeds of 19 indigenous lowland tropical forest tree species were collected, from both the east and west sides of the Thailand peninsular and the following parameters measured: seed size, shape, coat thickness and moisture content. Field trials were established to determine seed germination rates and to calculate a “direct seeding suitability score” for each species, which combined seedling establishment and growth rates. Seed size, shape and moisture content were associated with germination percentage. Species with higher seedling survival tended to have large or intermediate-sized seeds, round or oval seeds and seeds with low or medium moisture content. Only seed coat thickness was significantly correlated with the suitability score ( r  = 0.65, p  〈 0.01). Seed coat thickness 〉0.4 mm coincided with higher rank suitability score. These conditions successfully predicted the success or failure of direct seeding for 15 out of 19 species tested. Eight tree species are recommended as suitable for restoring lowland evergreen forest ecosystems in southern Thailand, by direct seeding. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-15 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9283-7 Authors Panitnard Tunjai, Ecology and Biodiversity Program, School of Science, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80160 Thailand Stephen Elliott, Forest Restoration Research Unit, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200 Thailand Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    The morpho-physiological quality of seedlings is negatively affected by the wide scale use of forest soils as substrates in developing countries. With the objective of finding long-term sustainable supply of growing media, compost was produced from shredded branches of three fast growing species ( Acacia cyanophylla ( AA ), Acacia cyclops ( AS ) and Eucalyptus gomphocephala ( EG ). The composting process covered three different periods over the course of a year. Pile temperatures were monitored daily and the composts were routinely sampled and analyzed for 19 chemical variables. Although composting is feasible year-round in arid climates, compost produced in the humid cool conditions of autumn, winter and early spring reaches the maturation phase more quickly than compost produced under hot, dry summer conditions. It also requires less turning and water. The evolution of the composting process and quality of the final product can be assessed using three chemical variables (C/N, pH, EC). Seed germination rates in the three types of compost were similar to that in a peat:vermiculite substrate and vigorous high quality seedlings were produced in the two acacia composts. However, compost-grown seedlings had significantly smaller shoots and root systems than those produced in peat substrate. Principal components analyses showed that the quality of a compost-based substrate is reproducible and that its final chemical composition can be predicted from its raw organic materials. The EG composts had higher pH than the acacia composts, whereas the AA and EG composts were higher in mineral salts than the AS . Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-20 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9280-x Authors Mustapha Bakry, Département des Sciences du bois et de la forêt, Faculté de Foresterie, de Géographie et de Géomatique, Pavillon Abitibi-Price, Université Laval, 2405 rue de la Terrasse, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada Mohammed S. Lamhamedi, Direction de la Recherche Forestière, Ministère des Ressources Naturelles et de la Faune du Québec, 2700 rue Einstein, Québec, QC G1P 3W8, Canada Jean Caron, Département des sols et de génie agro-alimentaire, Faculté des Sciences de l’Agriculture et de l’Alimentation, Pavillon Comtois, Université Laval, 2425 rue de l’Agriculture, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada Hank Margolis, Département des Sciences du bois et de la forêt, Faculté de Foresterie, de Géographie et de Géomatique, Pavillon Abitibi-Price, Université Laval, 2405 rue de la Terrasse, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada Abdenbi Zine El Abidine, École Nationale Forestière d’ingénieurs BP 511, Tabriquet, Salé, Morocco M’Hammed Bellaka, Centre Régional de la Recherche Forestière de Marrakech, Circuit de la Palmeraie, Km 2.5, B.P 13360, Poste Annakhil, Ain Itti, Marrakech, Morocco Debra C. Stowe, Département des Sciences du bois et de la forêt, Faculté de Foresterie, de Géographie et de Géomatique, Pavillon Abitibi-Price, Université Laval, 2405 rue de la Terrasse, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Many teak plantations are established on acidic soils with low nutrient availability. There is also poor documentation of nutrient budgets for teak, therefore, a pot experiment with optimal hybrid regression design (Roquemore R311A) was implemented with calcium, boron and nitrogen treatments with teak seedlings ( Tectona grandis L.f.) planted in acidic lateritic red soil substrate. Seedling growth, biomass production and root development, and soil pH, and exchangeable Ca and Al concentration were measured. Plant height, root collar diameter, biomass of leaves, stems and roots, root volume, taproot length, number of lateral roots of teak seedlings were significantly and positively correlated with soil exchangeable Ca, pH and Ca/Al molar ratio, and negatively correlated with exchangeable Al. All growth traits were significantly affected by calcium, nitrogen and their interaction, but B fertilizer and other interactions had insignificant effects. To effectively cultivate teak seedlings in acidic soil substrates, 1.68 g kg −1 quicklime (CaO) and 0.65 g kg −1 urea was suggested to be added to neutralize soil acidity, and enhance soil exchangeable Ca content and Ca/Al molar ratio. Urea should not be added without quicklime. Content Type Journal Article Pages 231-243 DOI 10.1007/s11056-011-9276-6 Authors Zaizhi Zhou, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Longdong, Guangzhou, 510520 People’s Republic of China Kunnan Liang, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Longdong, Guangzhou, 510520 People’s Republic of China Daping Xu, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Longdong, Guangzhou, 510520 People’s Republic of China Yuchen Zhang, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Longdong, Guangzhou, 510520 People’s Republic of China Guihua Huang, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Longdong, Guangzhou, 510520 People’s Republic of China Huaming Ma, Research Institute of Tropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Longdong, Guangzhou, 510520 People’s Republic of China Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286 Journal Volume Volume 43 Journal Issue Volume 43, Number 2

Beschreibung:    Plantation forestry is one of the most important approaches to restoring forest cover in China. Of the remaining sites suitable for afforestation in China, 52 % are considered harsh and only 13 % considered good, which indicates that successfully establishing a plantation in the future will become more and more difficult. Seedling quality in terms of morphology, physiology, and viability is a critical aspect for successful plantation establishment. Due to a large area in need of afforestation, and because of its diverse harsh sites, many studies have focused on nursery techniques of promoting seedling stress resistance, including inoculating ectomycorrhizal fungi, applying plant growth regulators, use of fall fertilization, induced water stresses, or a combined use of these methods. Most of relevant results of this research have been published in Chinese, and are unknown to researchers from other countries. Moreover, no comprehensive review of stress resistance research in forest tree seedlings in China has been completed. Therefore, this review intends to provide a concise synthesis of literature related to plant manipulation techniques that offer seedling stress resistance in Chinese nurseries, discuss potential shortcomings of these studies, and define priorities for future seedling stress resistance research. With this paper we hope to enhance communication about nursery and plantation seedling culture among researchers from China and other countries. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-11 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9341-9 Authors Y. Liu, Key Laboratory for Silviculture and Conservation, Ministry of Education, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083 China S. L. Bai, College of Forestry, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010019 China Y. Zhu, Key Laboratory for Silviculture and Conservation, Ministry of Education, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083 China G. L. Li, Key Laboratory for Silviculture and Conservation, Ministry of Education, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083 China P. Jiang, Key Laboratory for Silviculture and Conservation, Ministry of Education, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083 China Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Due to the high economic importance of Pinus pinaster Ait., there is considerable interest in developing, improving and extending the use of its families for mass clonal propagation and in breeding programmes. In the current study, we evaluated shoot growth, rooting ability and mini-cuttings production of P. pinaster in response to nitrogen fertilization and seasons. We compared eight half-sib families of P. pinaster from Asturias and Galicia (Northern Iberian Peninsula), searching for useful parameters and growing conditions to be included in a mass propagation program for clonal family forestry. We fertilized P. pinaster seedling mother plants kept in a greenhouse with three levels of nitrogen: high (HN), medium (MN) and low (LN) to evaluate rooting ability of mini-cuttings. In addition, we evaluated the maximal potential production of rooted mini-cuttings considering nine cycles of propagation over 1 year, also using three levels of nitrogen. The HN treatment significantly influenced the rooting process, with length, area and volume of roots all being positively affected. Spring was the most favourable season for mini-cuttings in the HN treatment. This study provides valuable new information to optimize the clonal propagation protocol for P. pinaster and shows that the mini-cuttings technique has great potential in mass scale cloning, providing high quality sprout production and well-formed new plants. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-13 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9333-9 Authors Celia Martínez-Alonso, CETEMAS, Sección Forestal, Finca Experimental “La Mata”, Grado, 33820 Asturias, Spain Angelo Kidelman, SERIDA, Sección Forestal, Finca Experimental “La Mata”, Grado, 33820 Asturias, Spain Isabel Feito, SERIDA, Sección Forestal, Finca Experimental “La Mata”, Grado, 33820 Asturias, Spain Tania Velasco, SERIDA, Sección Forestal, Finca Experimental “La Mata”, Grado, 33820 Asturias, Spain Ricardo Alía, Departamento de Sistemas y Recursos Forestales, CIFOR, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria (INIA), Carretera de La Coruña, Km. 7.5, 28040 Madrid, Spain Maria João Gaspar, Departamento Florestal, Centro de Investigação e de Tecnologias Agro-Ambientais e Biológicas, Universidade Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal Juan Majada, CETEMAS, Sección Forestal, Finca Experimental “La Mata”, Grado, 33820 Asturias, Spain Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Assessment of chlorophyll fluorescence (CF) of forest tree seedlings can provide important insight into physiological function, dormancy status, and stress resistance. This evaluative tool has been measured routinely using foliage on conifer seedlings to assess seedling physiological status during winter dormancy. Absence of foliage during dormancy has thus far precluded the potential application of CF to seedling quality assessment of temperate deciduous hardwood seedlings. Because stems contain chlorophyll, however, assessment of CF using stem tissue may serve as an effective alternative tissue type to facilitate CF measurements. We collected Juglans nigra L. (black walnut) seed from two provenances (Alabama and Indiana, USA) and subjected 1-year-old container seedlings from these provenances to a simulated hardening regime (i.e., progressively decreasing temperatures and photoperiods) in a growth chamber environment over an 18-week period; CF of stem tissue (evaluated as ΦPSII, efficiency of photosystem II) was sampled periodically at seven time intervals. Though both provenance and measurement period significantly affected ΦPSII, measurement period had a much more pronounced effect. Values for ΦPSII fluctuated (ranging from 0.45 to 0.72) during the simulated growth and hardening regimes, generally decreasing over time for both provenances. Our results suggest that physiological status of temperate deciduous seedlings may be effectively evaluated during dormancy by assessing CF of stem tissue. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-8 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9334-8 Authors Barrett C. Wilson, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2061, USA Douglass F. Jacobs, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2061, USA Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Sophora davidii is an important leguminous scrub that is widely used for revegetation in the semiarid Loess Plateau and other arid valley areas of China, where it usually suffers drought stress. This study investigated the effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi ( Glomus mosseae and Glomus constrictum ) and water stress on the growth and physiological performance of S. davidii seedlings under greenhouse pot conditions. Two soil water availability treatments (well-watered (WW) −0.10 MPa; water-stressed (WS) −0.86 MPa) were applied for 61 days. At the end of this experiment, G. mosseae and G. constrictum had colonized the roots of S. davidii seedlings. Water stress inhibited AM colonization, plant growth, chlorophyll concentration, gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence of S. davidii seedlings. Mycorrhizal seedlings had greater shoot dry weight, root dry weight, plant height, root length, instantaneous water use efficiency (iWUE), net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (g s ), maximal photochemical efficiency of PSII photochemistry (Fv/Fm), lower intercellular CO 2 concentration and photochemical quenching values (qP), when compared with non-mycorrhizal seedlings under both WW and WS conditions. Furthermore, G. constrictum was found to be more efficient at improving the shoot and root mass, plant height, iWUE, Pn, g s , qP, and ΦPSII of S. davidii seedlings, when compared with G. mosseae under both WW and WS conditions. Our results demonstrate that AM Glomus symbiosis enhanced S. davidii seedling resistance by improving its growth and physiological performance under water stress conditions. This suggests that Glomus inoculation is a potential tool for enhancing outplanting performance of S. davidii in semiarid areas of China. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-10 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9349-1 Authors Minggui Gong, College of Forestry, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi, China Ming Tang, College of Forestry, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi, China Hui Chen, College of Forestry, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi, China Qiaoming Zhang, College of Forestry, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi, China Xinxin Feng, College of Forestry, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, 712100 Shaanxi, China Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    We evaluated eight-year-old seedlings in a black walnut ( Juglans nigra L.) progeny test for two quantitative and two qualitative traits. We also used 12 microsatellite markers to genotype the 328 progeny and their maternal parents. Seedling family growth and quality was evaluated based on the progeny test map. These values were compared to family growth and quality after seedlings were genotyped and reassigned to families by parentage assignment software. After genotyping and parentage analysis, about 80 % of the offspring were assigned to the same half-sib family indicated on the planting map. Considerable differences were observed between the ranks of half-sib families based on the planting-map versus the ranks of the families based on the exclusion/assignment of progeny to their family based on genotypes. Analysis of the data without genotypic assignment of progeny to their correct family revealed that the family effect for height was significant, as was family effect for diameter. After seedlings were reassigned to half-sib families based on genotypic information, neither the family effect for height nor the family effect for diameter was significant. The efficiency of the mixed model ANOVA, as measured by Akaike Information Criterion improved by about 30 % after genotyping and exclusion/reassignment of progeny. These results show that genotyping progeny can have a significant effect on the rank of families and potential selection of individuals from a progeny trial, the quality of data analysis, and the efficiency and efficacy of breeding operations. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-12 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9343-7 Authors Peng Zhao, College of Forestry, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China Shuoxin Zhang, College of Forestry, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China Keith Woeste, U.S.D.A. Forest Service Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center (HTIRC), Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University, 715 West State Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    Sustainable forest management ought to include the production of non-use value, mainly in forests with low value of direct production. Predictions on climate change points out increase in aridity and changes in fire regime (increasing fire risk, recurrence and severity), particularly in the Mediterranean Basin. However, we have to question whether this implies a decrease in forest resilience and productivity. In summer 1994, large forest fires burned a huge surface of Aleppo pine stands in Spain. In areas naturally regenerated, we carried out early thinning and sampled 18 plots. In winter 2008 and 2009, we inventoried all pine trees in sampling plots, recording total height, diameter and canopy cover for scaling-up results to stand-level estimation. In addition, we destructively sampled 54 individual pine trees, selecting various thinning and dating treatments, to measure and estimate biomass and partitioning. The date of thinning influenced allometric relationships, earlier thinning stimulated the productivity of individual pine saplings, increasing the three components of carbon intake. Although, the total net carbon value was lower in almost all thinned plots (at least for short periods after thinning), differences were actually found depending on the cutting age and thinning severity. Control and thinned plots (mainly those thinned earlier and heavier) showed similar amounts of carbon but comprised in a low number of living trees with high productivity. Thus, productivity and carbon storage assessment should be monitored, in the long-term, to check prediction of proposed models for evaluation on early treatments. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-14 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9356-2 Authors Jorge De las Heras, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros Agrónomos, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain Daniel Moya, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros Agrónomos, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain Francisco R. López-Serrano, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros Agrónomos, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain Eva Rubio, Instituto de Desarrollo Regional, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286

Beschreibung:    In order to maximize early growth and establishment of planted hybrid poplars in the boreal region of Eastern Canada, growth response of four clones to fertilization was tested in two plantations. The first two fertilization treatments were based on Diagnosis and Recommendation Integrated System (DRIS), a method based on nutrient ratios: DRIS I was based on previously established norms from a study that had been conducted in the same area, and DRIS II was based on DRIS norms developed from hybrid poplars in northern Ontario, Canada. Nutrient status and growth of trees under these 2 treatments were compared to unfertilized trees and to trees under standard (STD) fertilization treatment (40 N–20P–20 K). Leaf nutrient concentrations and DRIS indices showed that fertilization treatments, and especially DRIS I corrected N deficiencies but failed to correct P deficiencies. Fertilization increased volume relative growth rate by 7.51, 4.76 and 13.25 % on average at the agricultural site for DRIS I, DRIS II and STD treatments respectively, compared to no fertilizer application. At the forest site, fertilization treatments based on DRIS indices (DRIS I and DRIS II) increased growth rates (6.67 %) slightly more than the standard treatment (5.80 %). Overall, although DRIS-based fertilization treatments generally increased growth rates, they were often equal to or less efficient than the STD treatment, and may not be as practical as using a standard fertilization recipe. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-22 DOI 10.1007/s11056-012-9358-0 Authors Raëd Elferjani, Chaire Industrielle CRSNG-UQAT-UQAM en Aménagement Forestier Durable, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, 341, rue Principale Nord, Amos, QC J9T 2L8, Canada Annie DesRochers, Chaire Industrielle CRSNG-UQAT-UQAM en Aménagement Forestier Durable, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, 341, rue Principale Nord, Amos, QC J9T 2L8, Canada Francine Tremblay, Chaire Industrielle CRSNG-UQAT-UQAM en Aménagement Forestier Durable, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue, 341, rue Principale Nord, Amos, QC J9T 2L8, Canada Journal New Forests Online ISSN 1573-5095 Print ISSN 0169-4286