The vitality of Taxus Baccata L. in forest stands in Slitere National Park, Latvia

Taxus baccata L., a relic of the Atlantic flora, is fourth of Latvia’s coniferous tree species, and it is endangered with a limited utilization because of its rare distribution. Evaluation of species condition, tree vitality and unfavourable factors influencing tree growth is crucial to improve species status. Measurements of forest stands with T. baccata autochthon and anthropogenic populations were collected, crown condition was rated, damages of trees were assessed, and projective cover of vegetation (canopy closure, shrub and herbaceous layer) was evaluated to determine the effect on T. baccata populations in Slitere National Park, Latvia. Main results show that factors strongly influencing the vitality of T. baccata are soil reaction and light conditions. Mostly the light conditions were determined by the canopy closure. Major conditions of shade negatively influenced the vitality and distribution of T. baccata.