Trees across Europe are increasingly dying prematurely. A new study conducted by the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape (WSL) reveals that the risk of tree mortality is not only heightened by drought but also by unusually warm or wet springs. The research suggests that even seemingly ideal growth conditions can eventually prove disastrous for the forests.
An international team, led by the French Laboratoire des Sciences du Climat et de l’Environnement and the WSL, analyzed data from the French forest inventory covering the period from 2015 to 2023. The scientists discovered that variations from the usual seasonal climate were the trigger for tree death in France. Surprisingly, the study also found that warm, wet springs unexpectedly increased the mortality risk.
These findings have significant implications for forest management. Specifically, forest practices should focus more intensely on growing drought-resistant species originating from southern European regions. Furthermore, large trees that consume a significant amount of water should be removed earlier from the forest inventory to ensure adequate water supply for the remaining vegetation. Researchers believe that the knowledge gained from this study can be effectively applied to other regions across Europe.
