Soil Legacies of Tree Species Composition in Mature Forest Affect Tree Seedlings’ Performance

• DOI: 10.1007/s10021-024-00923-y
• Publication Date: 2024-08-05T16:55:42Z
• Authors: Els Dhiedt; Lander Baeten; Pallieter De Smedt; Bogdan Jaroszewicz; Kris Verheyen
• Keywords: Tree (set theory); Affect

Abstract Trees affect the biotic and abiotic properties of soil in which they grow. Tree species-specific effects can persist for a long time, even after trees have been removed. We investigated to what extent such legacies different tree species may impact seedlings their emergence growth. performed plant–soil feedback experiment, using that was conditioned plots vary composition Białowieża Forest, Poland. Soil taken from varying proportion birch, hornbeam, pine, oak. In each soil, seeds same four target were sown pots. Seedling growth monitored one growing season. To further explore implications legacies, ectomycorrhizal root tip colonization oak, keystone forest species, determined. found no effect on measures. We, however, clear negative pine total biomass all seedling species. addition, we relationships between presence fertility colonization. Root positively correlated with oak seedlings. conclude leave has These influence next generation likely via pathways. Thus, choice today’s also matter structure future forests.