Abstract: In this research, the emergence and survival of Quercus brantii and Pistacia atlantica seedlings following the seed sowing was investigated under different shelter types in the western forests of Iran during 2018–2019 was investigated. For this purpose; three dominant oak habitats were selected in the northern aspect at the same altitude. In each habitat, two transects were established perpendicular to the slope, and along each transect the different shelter types including tree, shrub, bush, rock, and bare area were determined. One transect belonged to the Q. brantii, and the second to the P. atlantica. Under or around each shelter type, 12 holes were dug and sowed with the seeds of Q. brantii and P. atlantica in the winter 2017. The number of emerged seedlings was determined in the spring 2018 and their survival rate in the summer 2018 and spring and summer 2019. The results showed that the effect of the shelter on the emergence of seedlings and their survival is significant. The highest emergence and survival of seedlings was found under the crown of trees. The survival of seedlings in the second year compared to the first year and in summer compared to spring showed a decrease. For both species the efficiency of rock and bush in terms of seedling emergence and survival was better than that of shrub and bare area. It is suggested that for the successful restoration of oak forests, the shelter should be taken into account to provide shade and maintain soil moisture. Also seed sowing should be done in places where the shelter, especially the crown of the tree, exists.
Cite this article as: Hosseini, A. (2024). Shelter effect on the emergence and survival of Quercus brantii Lindl. and Pistacia atlantica Desf. seedlings in the western forests of Iran. Forestist, Published online July 22, 2024. doi:10.5152/forestist.2024.24011.