Responses to defoliation of Robinia pseudoacacia L. and Sophora japonica L. are soil water condition dependent

Abstract Key message Defoliation significantly affected biomass allocation of Robinia pseudoacacia L. and Sophora japonica L., but leaf physiology readjusted to control levels at the end experiment. Considering carbon or sink limitation relative height growth rate, defoliated R. grew faster than S. under well-watered conditions, while had similar performance drought conditions. Context Climate change may result in increases both intensity insect survival, thereby affecting exotic native trees warm temperate forests. Aims In this study, we examined interaction effects defoliation on an species a area, provide theoretical basis for predicting distribution dynamics two future climate change. Methods greenhouse, were exposed three soil moisture (75%, 55%, 35% field capacity) treatments (no defoliation, 50% 100% defoliation). Leaf physiology, biomass, non-structural carbohydrate determined. Results did not differ from controls trees, seedlings allocated relatively more resources leaves was limited limited, individuals drought. Defoliated grow rapidly rate Conclusions clearly affects species, physiology. limitation, be by global scenarios.