Scientific Reports of the National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine

Influence of shrub species on the natural regeneration of the main forest-forming tree species in Husiatyn forest district of the Chortkiv forestry

Svitlana Adamenko*, Dmytro Yarosh, Volodymyr Shlapak

fotyniya7139@gmail.com

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Abstract

This article examined the characteristics of understorey formation in oak stands of the Chortkiv forestry and its influence on the growth, development, and survival of the principal tree species. The dominant shrub species recorded in the region’s oak forests were common hazel, European spindle, warty spindle, common dogwood, wayfaring tree, Tatar maple, and field maple. Field investigations were carried out in Husiatyn Forest District on a series of experimental plots differing in shrub-layer composition. Particular attention was given to the effects of common hazel, Tatar maple, and Siberian peashrub on the growth of pedunculate oak and common ash. The most favourable results were obtained in plots with common hazel, where survival reached 92.8% for pedunculate oak and 95.7% for common ash. Trees in these plots also attained the greatest height, stem diameter, and crown size. The positive effect of common hazel appears to be associated with the creation of a more favourable microclimate, suppression of competing herbaceous vegetation, and reduced competition for soil moisture and nutrients. By comparison, plots containing Tatar maple or Siberian peashrub showed lower growth performance and a slight reduction in oak survival. Changes in understorey composition and density were also assessed across stands of different ages and stocking densities. It was found that Tatar maple predominates in young forest plantations, whereas European spindle and warty spindle dominate in middle-aged and mature stands. The obtained results confirm the important role of the understorey in creating a favourable microclimate, maintaining biodiversity, and ensuring the successful natural regeneration of oak forests

Keywords

pedunculate oak; common ash; understorey; forest stands; stocking density; stand density; light conditions

Suggested citation
Adamenko, S., Yarosh, D., & Shlapak , V. (2026). Influence of shrub species on the natural regeneration of the main forest-forming tree species in Husiatyn forest district of the Chortkiv forestry. Scientific Reports of the National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, 22(4),81-93. https://doi.org/10.31548/dopovidi/4.2026.81
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