Recent changes in the natural and social environments require new solutions regarding the management of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) stands, i.e. one of the key forest−forming and economically−important tree species in Europe. The long tradition combined with efforts to perfect the management by clear−cutting, there is still a search for alternative methods of managing in all European biogeographical regions, in which Scots pine plays a leading role. Regeneration and renewal over large areas is difficult to achieve (Mediterranean or boreal regions). And even in places where it remains possible, it can end up with large, even−aged stands of inevitably simplified structure, which prove highly, and perhaps increasingly, vulnerable to damage from both abiotic (frost or windthrow) and biotic (pathogenic fungi and insect pests) agents. These management methods also generate abrupt change in the forest landscape and, while this actually just represents advantage being taken of the natural capacity of pines to reoccupy extensive cleared areas (such as those following fires or gales), it frequently now proves unacceptable to the public. This is seen in particular in the areas around large cities or nature protection areas. The aim of this article is to review both traditional and alternative means of management of Scots pine stands within three largest biogeographical regions of Europe. While obviously relating to the environmental conditions holding sway in these different regions, silviculture in pine stands is based around a similar spectrum of applied methods that favour the emergence of single−, double− or multi−generation stands. In the boreal region, where the species finds suitable conditions for its growth, we search for effective methods to imitate small−scale natural disturbances, initiating the regeneration within gaps of differing sizes. In turn, in the continental region, research focuses on devising methods to make full use of natural regeneration, as well as seeking to limit the negative effects of clear− −cutting in the forest landscape, e.g. by leaving seed or residual trees, and clumps of the old−growth. Here too, the alternatives to clear−cutting may lie in partial or full felling being confined to smaller areas; as well as in the gradual inclusion within the main stand of trees regenerating successfully beneath the tree canopy. Finally, in the Mediterranean region, where the main factor limiting regeneration is drought, various shelterwood−felling variants are applied to fully benefit from the shielding that the mother stand offers. All the regions witness more and more frequent restrictions on the use of management means based on clear−cutting, with wider use of alternative silvicultural methods looking inevitable in the near future, in the context of both climate and social change. The need to compromise between the production−related and other functions of pine stands, and to devise generally−acceptable methods for their management, are now among the more−difficult challenges facing European forestry.

Sylwan 165 (5): 355-370