Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco) in Europe: an overview of management practices

Abstract Douglas-fir ( Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco), one of the most commercially important tree species in western North America and valuable timber trees worldwide, was introduced to Europe 1827. It became a major for afforestation Western after WWII, currently grows 35 countries on over 0.83 million ha is widespread non-native across continent. A lower sensitivity drought makes potential alternative more drought-sensitive Norway spruce so its importance expected increase future. fastest growing conifer cultivated Europe, with largest reported dimensions 2.3 m diameter 67.5 height. Pure stands have high productivity (up 20 3 −1 ) production (over 1000 ). The generally regenerated by planting (initial stocking density from less than seedlings 4000 ), using European provenance derived seed orchards or certified stands. As range end-uses wood very wide, rotation period highly variable ranges between 40 120 years. When large-sized, knot-free targeted, thinnings are always coupled pruning up 6 m. There an increasing interest mixtures managing through close-to-nature silviculture, but species’ intermediate shade tolerance means that it best managed group selection shelterwood systems.