Non-native Douglas fir seedlings outcompete native Norway spruce, silver fir and Scots pine under dry and nutrient-poor conditions.

ABSTRACT: Climate change is expected to significantly alter forest ecosystems, reducing the suitability of the key economic tree species Norway spruce (Picea abies) and European beech (Fagus sylvatica) in low- and mid-elevation forests of Central Europe. As these species face increasing pressures from drought, storms, and pests, it is crucial to identify alternative tree species that are economically viable and capable of maintaining primary ecosystem services. This study investigated the potential of Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), a non-native conifer, to establish from seed and compete with native broadleaf and conifer species during the early regeneration stage under differing resource availabilities. We assessed the growth performance and phenotypic plasticity of Dougl

SUBMITTER: Moser B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11966113 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature