Silvicultural interpretation of natural vegetation dynamics in ageing Scots pine stands for their conversion into mixed broadleaved stands

Abstract In many West-European regions there is principal consensus on the conversion of homogeneous even-aged Scots pine plantations into mixed broadleaved stands. In recent years, interest is growing for conversion management in which managers try to maximise the use of natural processes by steering or accelerating spontaneously occurring developments, or initiating new developments, according to current insight into natural vegetation dynamics and the factors controlling it. We present the most comprehensive models of natural vegetation dynamics in ageing temperate Scots pine forest ecosystems on poor sandy soils in Europe—a linear succession model and a multiple pathway model. We use the multiple pathway model to define three silvicultural strategies for the conversion of ageing Scots pine stands, in accordance with natural processes. For each strategy the conversion target, the conversion type and recommendations on scale, intensity and frequency of management interventions are presented. The proposed strategies provide an uncomplicated ecological framework for planning and implementing conversion management within a realistic time span. Limitations of the proposed strategies and alternative management approaches are discussed. The described models and strategies are valid in large areas of the West-European Atlantic biogeographic region.