Drought spells and their impact on the growth of young plantations established with the containerized planting stock

Abstract

In 2013-2016, the growth and post-planting losses were monitored of bare-rooted and containerized planting stock of European beech, Norway spruce and Douglas fir together with the course of weather in seven regions of the Czech Republic, most endangered by drought. Precipitation deficits occurred especially in the spring period of 2015 and in the summer period of 2016, significant drought spells being recorded also in the summer periods of years 2013 and 2015. If there is a normal weather after planting, the containerized planting stock exhibits better growth. If the planting is followed by severe spells of drought, both the bare-rooted and the containerized planting stock dies, the containerized planting stock more so. The containerized planting stock responds worse to repeated drought spells. Drought spells are at all times better endured by the containerized planting stock with the large root balls, root ball coverage and strong root collar. Coverage of clear-cut areas is significantly affected by the success of regeneration, which depends on the used type of planting stock, as well as by the spells of drought. Good growth in the first year after planting does not guarantee the success of regeneration, particularly if the containerized planting stock is concerned.