Research article

SILVER BIRCH (BETULA PENDULA ROTH.) AGE-CLASS COMPOSITION AND NATURAL REGENERATION FEATURES IN RUDNY ALTAI CONDITIONS

Sarsekova Dani1*, Kalachev Andrey2 and Toktassynov Zhailau1

Online First: March 8, 2023


Silver birch (Betula pendula Roth.), along with Siberian fir (Abiessibirica L.) and aspen (Populustremula L.), is one of the most common tree species in mountain forests of Rudny Altai. Due to its ecological and biological characteristics, is the first species that appears in areas cleared by forest fire or clear felling, thus causing species replacement. It regenerates not only by seed, but also vegetative, through the formation of accessory and dormant buds located on the stump and root spur. The silver birch rarely regeneratesby root stalks. Shoot formationability depends on the origin and age of the cut tree. This article presentsthe results of a study about the age-class composition and vegetative regeneration features of the silver birch. Studied birch stands are as per definitionof different ages. Shoot formationability is determined depending on both origin and age. The study showed that stumps with a diameter of less than 40 cm and tree age of up to 60 years have the best ability for natural regeneration by shoot formation. Subsequently, shoot formationability is reduced and completely ceases when reachingage class VIII. The shoots originated from accessory buds located on theroot spurplay a key role in birch shoot formation.

Keywords

Silver birch; Age-class composition; Vegetative regeneration; Shoot growth