Dossier

Provenance Research – the Backbone of Tree Improvement

Mirko Liesebach

FG Institute of Forest Genetics

Most tree species are distributed over wide ranges of land, covering different site conditions. With the adaptation to these differing sites, genetic variation evolves between populations. The knowledge about local adaptation is important to identify well performing species and also populations and provenances resistant against diseases and environmental influences.

At the Thünen-Institute for Forest Genetics we test the suitability and adaptability of numerous broadleaved and coniferous forest tree species in provenance trials. The climate change gives this research a new dimension. There are large gaps in knowledge in estimating the role genetic differences play in the degree of adaptation to differing site conditions and how rapidly populations are able to adapt to them.

The investigations are connected with the legal regulations for procurement, trade, deployment, and nursing, as well as the use of forest reproductive materials.

Experimental plots throughout Germany

The Thünen Institute of Forest Genetics looks after more than 400 trial plots in Germany. There we test how trees of different origins and from different families are suited for cultivation. On these plots we observe the survival of the trees, their susceptibility to diseases and pests, and their growth dynamics.
So far, we have mainly used the results to provide forestry practice with indications for the site-appropriate selection of provenances for cultivation. Currently, the data is also increasingly being used to make statements about the adaptability of different provenances to climate change.

Expertise

Tree Breeding Strategy Developed – a Tool for Political Decisions

Forest tree breeding can only be successful in Germany if all involved institutions cooperate and share in the task. Future tree breeding will focus on six tree species or species groups.

Scots pine and beech: How do different provenances respond to drought?

When summers become dryer due to climate change, trees are also increasingly stressed. Forest researchers are testing the suitability of different pine and beech provenances with differing approaches.

Growth of six beech provenances in Schleswig-Holstein

A comparison of six beech provenance originating from cold and warm areas, respectively, leads to surprising results.

American and European Red Oak Provenances in Germany

In field trials at various sites in Germany, the European origins of red oak showed better growth performance than provenances of American origin. This is significant for future afforestation.

Transfer of Forest Reproductive Material within Europe – What do we know?

In several European countries considerable amounts of non-adapted reproductive material is still being used. This can lead to high mortality rates and poor growth performance.

Breeding of Hybrid Larch – an Example for Successful Forest Tree Breeding?

Naturally occurring hybrids of European and Japanese larch show exceptionally high wood production. This has led to successful breeding programs. Shortcomings exist in the practical implementation.