Fertilization modifies forest stand growth but not stand density: consequences for modelling stand dynamics in a changing climate

Abstract Knowledge of the maximum forest stand density and self-thinning process is important for understanding, modelling scheduling thinnings in silviculture. The upper trajectories stem number, N, vs mean diameter, dq or tree volume number are often used quantifying density. long debate about how site conditions modify these relationships presently revived due to global change. A crucial question whether environmental alter themselves just velocity at which stands move along them. Our contribution based on fully stocked plots from long-term Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) fertilization experiments an ecological gradient South Germany. This allows us compare fertilized unfertilized under different conditions. We can show that repeated with nitrogen did not change N ~ trajectories. Assuming affects forests a similar way as ongoing atmospheric N-deposition, this means growth, mortality, accumulation proceed faster time but still follow same allometric Furthermore, we found level line generally increases annual precipitation. exponent, however, respond Finally, quantitatively demonstrate discuss implications consequences results regarding understanding dynamics, carbon sequestration development adaptation silvicultural guidelines view climate