Beskydy 2015, 8, 55-58
Potential of Douglas‑fir as a partial substitute for Norway spruce – review of the newest Czech literature
Presentation summarizes the results concerning the effects of cultivation of Douglas‑fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii /Mirb./ Franco), especially in the last decades, on the intensity of production as well as non‑production forest functions in the conditions of the Czech Republic. It analyzes the research outcomes from the point of view of volume and value production in comparison with other native tree species, from the point of view of the soil effects and effects on the ground vegetation diversity, and from point of view of stability and cultivation in the last period. Main aim is represented by the comparison with the Norway spruce, which can be with advantages replaced by this species, with favourable impact on amount and value of the timber production, on the soil and biodiversity status of the ground vegetation. Also the stability of forest stands can be supported considerably. Douglas‑fir represents favourable alternative to the Norway spruce in lower and middle altitudes and it can contribute highly to the competitiveness of the Czech forestry.
Funding
This paper was supported by a project NAZV QJ1520299: Applying Douglas fir in forest management of the Czech Republic
