Experimental research in ageing holm oak (Quercus ilex L.) coppices: preliminary results

The initial data of a long-term research program directed towards determining the silvicultural choices for management of ageing holm oak coppices are reported. The various treatments being tested are the following: treatment A and B respectively with 50 and 250 reserve trees per hectare, all of the same age; treatment C with 140 reserve trees per hectare, with three different ages; treatment D, conversion into high forest; and treatment E, natural evolution (the control). A total of 15 permanent plots were established (5 treatments x 3 replicates) and the experimental design used is that of randomized blocks. The results presented regard the structural development of the coppice during the first two year after coppicing. Regeneration from seed showed a significant correlation with treatment. Data relative to the characteristics of the stands existing before the various interventions also are given. Such preliminary results need further periodical observations.