Soil properties affecting the frost sensitivity of beech bark in southern Sweden

Decline in pH and leakage of base cations have been recorded in beech forest soils in southern Sweden. This study investigated the influence of soil properties on frost sensitivity in beech bark and evaluated the effects on frost sensitivity of soil treatment with lime, wood ash or excessive N fertilization. Beech trees on five experimental sites were studied. The results indicated that beech trees subjected to a comparatively low C/N ratio and low concentration of nutrient elements in the mineral soil layer were predisposed to a higher sensitivity to frost. Seven years after treatment, no effects of N fertilization were detectable in the soil, but positive effects of liming were recorded. There were no obvious effects of bark ash amendments, owing to large differences among blocks at the site.