Adaptation of beech plants from different provenances to natural growth conditions [Articol]

Abstract

This study assessed the adaptive potential of Fagus sylvatica L. seedlings from various provenances under natural growth conditions in the Republic of Moldova. Between 2022 and 2024, seedlings of different ages and origins (Slovakia, Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine) were transplanted and monitored. Key indicators included adaptation rate, survival rate and annual growth. Seedlings from Slovak provenances (Nitra-19 and Rožňava-22) showed the highest initial transplant resistance, with survival rates of 96.15% and 97.00%, respectively. Plants from Ciorești-21 (Republic of Moldova) followed closely, demonstrating the highest survival rate (87.00%) one year after transplantation. Growth assessments showed that although Romanian seedlings (Humosu-20) were initially taller, those from Slovakia and Republic of Moldova surpassed them in growth after one year. Adaptation was influenced by genetic and epigenetic factors, seedling morphology, precipitation levels, and climatic similarity between the origin site and the planting location. These results highlight the importance of selecting suitable provenances sites for beech seed collection and conditions for successful conservation and restoration of beech forests.