Tree Species Composition in Mixed Plantations Influences Plant Growth, Intrinsic Water Use Efficiency and Soil Carbon Stock

Species interactions in mixed plantations can influence tree growth, resources capture and soil fertility of the stands. A combined approach tree-ring analyses carbon stable isotope was used to check growth water use efficiency two species, Populus alba L. Juglans regia L., intercropped with each other N-fixing or competitive production species. Furthermore, were performed understand how different intercropping systems characteristics, particular stock. Dendrochronological data showed that during first years, principal species favored by intercropping. This positive effect decreased following years most stands, due light competition crown companion Carbon P. J. had highest intrinsic when growing Elaeagnus umbellata Thunb, a shrubby shallow root system favors non-competitive exploitation resources. Finally, Corylus avellana promoted C Our findings confirmed importance consider plantation dynamics wood formation long-run apply appropriate thinning pruning interventions counteract interspecific competition.