Mitigating the risk of drought-induced stem cracks in conifers in a changing climate

It is widely accepted that climate change will see an increase in the frequency and intensity of drought events that will inevitably impact on the commercially-important coniferous forests in Western Europe. Of particular concern is the likely increase in the incidence of drought-induced, radial-longitudinal stem cracks that will have serious consequences for forest health and wood structural properties. This paper reviews the existing knowledge on drought-induced stem cracking in coniferous species. It summarises the current impact of drought on coniferous forests and predicted future impacts of a changing climate. Available information on the mechanism of radial splitting and the role of wood properties in this process is examined. It also considers the influence of soil properties on the development of drought stress within trees associated with stem cracking. The final part of the review discusses the knowledge gaps and suggestions for further research.