Regeneration dynamics in aging black pine (Pinus nigra Arn.) plantations on the south slopes of the Middle Balkan Range in Bulgaria

To study the regeneration dynamics in mature black pine (Pinus nigra Arn.) plantations in the Middle Balkan Range, Bulgaria, a total of 48 research plots (sized 0.1 ha) were established; 26 plots were established in the foothills of the mountains (foothill zone) and 22 in the main massive (mountainous zone). Pine overstorey as well as advance regeneration in subplots were recorded. Analysis of variance and regression analysis showed that in general relative stand basal area (RSBA) was the most important predictor of deciduous advance regeneration density, top height as well as age span of the regeneration layer. In the mountainous zone soil depth (SD) and the presence of mature deciduous trees (MDT) explained a significant amount of the variation in regeneration features. Lower RSBA induced by earlier thinnings resulted in higher regeneration density, larger top heights and wider age span of deciduous species. Under the pine canopy oak regeneration can persist longer compared to natural broadleaved canopies. In the studied plantations pine regeneration was confined to few scattered seedlings and regeneration groups. Based on these findings silvicultural concepts for the further management of black pine plantations in the Middle Balkan Range are discussed.