Abstract :
[en] In Europe, because of previous intense forest use in the past centuries, the plantation of
coniferous stands, especially Norway spruce with high production potential has been a common
strategy. However, the characteristics of Norway spruce such a
s susceptibility to windfall, forest
dieback and soil acidification have caused negative ecological impacts at many sites. Conversion
of conifers into deciduous or mixed stands has been suggested in order to improve ecological
conditions and biodiversity o
f forest ecosystems. In this study, six broadleaved species were
planted at the same site, thus being subjected to similar condition in terms of soil type, land use
history and climate. The aim of this research was to study of foliar nutrient status and nu
trient
return to the forest floor through litterfall 11 years after conversion of Norway spruce (Picea abie
s
(L.) KARST.) into a mixed stand with common alder (Alnus glutinosa (L.) GAERTN.), european
beech (Fagus sylvatica L.), pedunculate oak (Quercus rob
ur L.), silver birch (Betula pendula
ROTH.), goat willow (Salix caprea L.) and rowan (Sorbus aucuparia L.). Our results revealed that
tree species had a different foliar nutrient status and an effect on nutrient input fluxes through
litterfall. For example
, litter nutrient contents (N, Ca, Mg, K) were highest under alder, rowan and
willow. Total litterfall and nutrient fluxes from leaf litter were highest under rowan. Our results
demonstrate that, on poor sites, plantation of pioneer species, especially row
an, may improve the
nutrient status of the forest floor through higher input in litterfall.
