Observing phenologicaly the selected species on the FGM plot for Abies alba in Bavaria

From the beginning of May 2015 onwards, ASP started phenological observations of some mature trees and saplings on the FGM plot for Abies alba (silver fir) in Bavaria (Germany).

The first step was to select 40 mature trees for phenological observations. In each natural regeneration subplot 20 saplings were selected. For both, the adult and the natural regeneration, bud break was monitored. To estimate if trees would bear cones this year we observed male and female flowering of mature trees. For this we selected the highest trees with the biggest crowns. These trees are expected to yield good crop of cones.

Based on the phenology results we will see the differences in time when different trees start their growing season and if these trees overlap or not. For example according to the flowering phenology we can predict the crop of cones which is a very important issue for the foresters and the tree nurseries.

The most important thing is that phenological observations must be done on the same trees at regular intervals to capture all phenological stages.