Development and dynamics of mountain spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karsten) stand regeneration

We summarized development and dynamics of natural regeneration in mountain spruce forests in areas affected by bark beetle gradation in the Sumava National Park. Detailed measurements of the regeneration were carried out using Field-Map technology (www.fieldmap.com) on ten permanent research plots. Research plots included the forests with decaying tree layer, stands in partial decline and stands with a generally healthy, or only partially damaged tree layer. Differences in rates of regeneration are very significant between the particular types of plots, especially in the youngest age class. Differences are also evident in the seedling height under varying treatments. The highest numbers of recruits (9,880 per ha) were found under intact overstorey canopies, while the fastest height growth oc - curred on clearcuts. This study also investigated and evaluated artificial regeneration done in the past.