The Effects of Tree and Stand Traits on the Specific Leaf Area in Managed Scots Pine Forests of Different Ages

The purpose of this study was to understand the relationships between stand structure (tree size, volume, biomass, social position, density) and variability specific leaf area (SLA) at level, which could improve forest management modeling. carried out on 100 trees selected from 10 stands Scots pine located in northwestern Poland. had been established a similar way were similarly managed. Five mid-aged (51–60 years) five mature (81–90 pure selected. To obtain SLA index, we used direct method, involves scanning ca. 50 needles each part tree crown. average 4.65 6.62 m2·kg−1 differed significantly according crown measured (p < 0.0001) age 0.0001). smallest upper largest lower crown, is line with known relation light exposure needles. Mid-aged have higher values than ones. Dominant more shaded intermediate ones, probably due different lighting conditions within canopy. No clear relationship observed density SLA.