Effects of competition reduction on intra-annual radial growth of European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) at stem base and crown base

Key message In beech stands, thinning affects growth differently along tree stems, with higher and longer duration increment at stem base than crown while unmanaged stands depict opposite patterns. Abstract Forest management individual dynamics different levels of the bole. Here, we assessed stem-growth patterns as a function bole height (stem base) competition reduction using high-resolution dendrometer records. We measured radial increments throughout vegetation periods 2015 2016 in two managed European ( Fagus sylvatica L.) central Germany. one stand, trees had been repeatedly released from other remained for about 40 years. To assess temporal phases diameter increment, fitted Weibull curves to data. Stem basal area stand were always stand. monthly highly correlated until July when surpassed base. Conversely, was often lower both started earlier However, began lasted Our results confirm that increases duration. Future research is needed test whether tapers residual have implications biomass carbon storage modeling.