Effects of uprooting tree on herbaceous species diversity, woody species regeneration status and soil physical characteristics in a temperate mixed forest of Iran

We conducted a study to examine the pattern of development of herbaceous plant species, woody species regeneration and soil physical characteristics after tree uprooting in 20-ha areas of Experimental Forest Station of Tarbiat Modares University located in a temperate forest of Mazandaran province in the north of Iran. Soil bulk density, soil texture and moisture from pit and mound (PM) were measured in the laboratory. Results show that the soil bulk density was most in soil deeper layers at mound top, and the soil moisture content was most in soil deeper layers at Pit bottom. Our study supports that the micro-topography of PM (pit and mound) topography will create a mosaic of environmental conditions. This environmental heterogeneity could be responsible for the diversity of herbaceous plant species and regeneration of woody species. It is recommend that the fallen trees with PM structure should remain in the protected area without clearing as the best option for forest restoration. This information can be useful for forest management that attempts to emulate natural processes.