The More the Merrier or the Fewer the Better Fare? Effects of Stand Density on Tree Growth and Climatic Response in a Scots Pine Plantation

In forests, the growth and productivity of individual trees stands as a whole are regulated by stand density among other factors, because access to vital resources is limited competition between trees. On 18 experimental plots Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) planted with 500–128,000 trees/ha in south taiga (Middle Siberia), interactions density, tree- stand-scale productivity, tree-ring parameters were investigated. Tree-scale variables, width, latewood width had stable negative allometric relationships (R2 > 0.75), except for tree height (insignificant inventory surveys at ages 20 25 years; R2 0.4 age 35 years), while positive allometry was registered variables 0.7) all-time average ratio = 0.5 planting density). Tree-ring aside from trends correlate (p < 0.05) demonstrate common responses moderate moisture deficit. Although, its seasonality apparently depends on resource base intensity changes density. February–June precipitation more important dense stands, July–August conditions affect stronger sparse medium-density resistant winter frosts.