Chamaecyparis obtusa (Hinoki) seedlings preferentially cluster near stumps and stems

This study investigated the distribution of Chamaecyparis obtusa (Hinoki) seedlings in monoculture timber plantations and revealed that they preferentially cluster near stumps and stems. Proximity effects on current-year seedlings resulted in unique spatial distributions that appeared from pre-emergence to a several weeks post-germination. High correlations between soil acidity and seedling counts underscored that acidity influenced distribution patterns. Stemflow supply significantly enhanced the survival of seedlings shortly after germination. This suggests the possibility that stemflow-induced acidification might have a protective effect against soil fungi. Therefore, stumps, which act as legacies because they accumulate acidification during the tree’s lifespan, have a newly recognized role in conifer regeneration.