Interannual radial growth response of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco) to severe droughts: an analysis along a gradient of soil properties and rooting characteristics

Abstract Key message We analyzed stem growth responses of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco) to severe drought in 2003/04 and 2018. The results showed high drought tolerance in sandy, loamy, and most silty soils, with limitations on clayey soils. This study indicates the susceptibility of Douglas-firs with shallow root systems to extreme drought and the importance of deep rooting for high drought resilience. Context Although Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco) is considered a more drought-tolerant substitute for Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) in Europe, there is considerable uncertainty about the drought tolerance of Douglas-fir under climate change, specifically concerning soil properties. Aims This study aimed to assess the influence of soil texture, plant-available water capacity, and rooting characteristics on the interannual stem growth response of Douglas-fir when exposed to severe drought. Methods Along a soil texture gradient from sand to clay, we selected seven closely spaced sites at elevations of approximately 500 m a.s.l. in southern Germany. Mixed-effects models were used to analyze the effects of soil physical and rooting characteristics on growth response indices (resistance, recovery, resilience) related to the severe to extreme droughts in 2003/04 and 2018. Results Douglas-fir showed high drought tolerance in sandy, loamy, and most silty soils. However, the results suggest a higher drought stress risk on clayey soils, as well as at specific silty sites with shallow root systems. A higher effective rooting depth increased the resilience of Douglas-fir during the extreme drought in 2018. Conclusion Douglas-fir demonstrated its drought tolerance in most soil textures. In addition, this study supports the need for combined above- and below-ground investigations on factors influencing drought tolerance and the importance of rooting for drought resilience.