In this open access article, the authors describe a novel field experiment that examined the effects of increased mechanical strain and light exposure on tree growth and development. The experiment, conducted between 1996 and 1999, has been analysed now to inform the incorporation of wind acclimation effects into wind risk models. Changes in stem, root and branch growth of Sitka spruce trees were examined following thinning and guying treatments in which light availability was increased and wind movement was either increased or decreased. This investigation was designed to improve our understanding of tree physiology and growth responses to changes in light availability and wind exposure, and to explore the implications of increased exposure on growth, wind stability and management of natural and plantation forests.
Full reference
Nicoll, B.C., Connolly, T. and Gardiner, B.A. 2019. Changes in Spruce Growth and Biomass Allocation Following Thinning and Guying Treatments. Forests 10, 253.
Barry Gardiner is a senior researcher at EFI's Planted Forests Facility.