Silvicultural characteristics and natural regeneration of Pinus brutia Ten. - a review

Pinus brutia Ten. is a characteristic species of the eastern Mediterranean. P. brutia and P. halepensis Mill. are distinct species; but P. eldarica, P. stankewiczii and P. pityusa are subspecies of P. brutia. Fire is the major disturbance in P. brutia forests, and several adaptations generally contribute to post-fire regeneration of P. brutia; however, P. brutia can also naturally regenerate without fire. Flowering occurs between March and May. Seed distribution occurs throughout the year, with maximum dispersal in August and the great majority of seeds dispersing within the period July-December.P. brutia retains some closed cones and so establishes a natural canopy seed bank. Seed germination occurs in the rainy season with two frequency peaks: the major one in spring and a minor one in autumn. P. brutia seedlings develop rapidly-growing tap roots. Shelterwood, clearcutting and strip clearcut methods can successfully be applied to P. brutia forests, depending on local conditions. Density of P. brutia seedlings was greater and seedlings were more vigorous when the natural regeneration methods were combined with prescribed fire. Clearcutting methods combined with laying cone bearing branches on the surface of the soil and additional seeding increases regeneration success. Ground litter of 2–4 cm creates a medium that reduces evapotranspiration, delays growth of competing vegetation, and increases seedling survival. Successful regeneration must be established by the end of first vegetation period.