White poplar (Populus alba L.) stands in Ukraine: the current state, growth specificities and prospects of using for forest plantations - Sciendo

FOLIA OECOLOGICA – vol. 48, no. 1 (2021), doi: 10.2478/foecol-2021-0008

 White poplar (Populus alba L.) stands in Ukraine: the current state,
 growth specificities and prospects of using for forest plantations

 Natalia Vysotska, Maksym Rumiantsev*, Oleksii Kobets

 Ukrainian Research Institute of Forestry and Forest Melioration named after G. M. Vysotsky,
 Pushkinska Str. 86, 61024, Kharkiv, Ukraine

 Abstract
 Vysotska, N., Rumiantsev, M., Kobets, O., 2021. White poplar (Populus alba L.) stands in Ukraine: the cur-
 rent state, growth specificities and prospects of using for forest plantations. Folia Oecologica, 48 (1): 63–72.

 The aim of the study was to assess the current state and evaluate the productivity of white poplar stands by
 natural zones within Ukraine and to define the prospects for their use for plantation forest cultivation. The ob-
 jects of the study were white poplar stands in Ukrainian forests grown on the area of more than 7,600 hectares
 in various natural zones, namely Polissya (forest zone in Ukraine), Forest-Steppe, and Steppe. The study was
 carried out based on the analysis of forest inventory data (Ukrainian forest fund database) containing given
 stand characteristics such as origin, age, diameter, height, type of forest site conditions, etc. The characteris-
 tics were estimated by grouping the plots by age. The growth specificities (dynamics of the main mensuration
 characteristics) and the productive capacity of the white poplar stands were analyzed based on the developed
 tables. It was found that white poplar stands are mainly concentrated in Steppe and Forest-Steppe in Ukraine.
 The stands are of coppice or artificial origin; they grow in moist fairly fertile, fresh fairly fertile and moist fer-
 tile sites. The age distribution of the white poplar stands is severely imbalanced due to a significant predomi-
 nance of stands aged over 40 years in all natural zones within Ukraine. More productive are the white poplar
 stands growing within Polissya and Forest-Steppe. The developed growth and productivity tables should be
 used when planning and prioritizing the relevant forestry interventions in white poplar stands.

 Keywords
 mathematical models, productive capacity, short-rotation plantations, white poplar (Populus alba L.), yield
 tables

Introduction 1975) and is continuing (Tkach, 1999; Lakida et al.,
 2011; Vysotska, 2017; Vysotska and Kobets, 2018).
Stands of white poplar (Populus alba L.) are of notable Populus alba L. is a widespread tree species (Zsuffa,
ecological and economic importance among the members 1993; Jakucs, 2002; Global Invasive Species, 2015;
of the genus Populus L. in the Ukrainian forests. They cover Taran and Dyachenko, 2018). It is of commercial
an area of more than 7,600 ha. They rank third among the importance through the following biotechnological
poplar forests in terms of the area after the aspen (Populus advantages: fairly rapid growth (Harfouche et al.,
tremula L.) (34,300 ha) and black poplar (Populus nigra 2007; Katanić et al., 2015), a simple method of in vitro
L.) (13,500 ha) stands (Vysotska and Tkach, 2016). The propagation (Klopfenstein et al., 1997; Kaldorf et al.,
study of poplar forests in Ukraine was initiated in the 2004), wide use in reclamative afforestation (Eichhorn
1960s (Starova, 1962; Lavrinenko et al., 1966; Redko, et al., 2006), especially as windbreaks in plains, as well as

*Corresponding author:
e-mail: maxrum-89@ukr.net
© 2021 Authors. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

 63

for landscaping (Ishchuk, 2016). It is also used in short- Institute of Forestry and Forest Melioration (URIFFM).
rotation forestry (Klašnja et al., 2006) due to the high Data selection necessary for the further calculations was
biomass accumulation as a result of the formation of deep exported into the .xls format in Microsoft Excel 2016
root systems (Newman et al., 1997). White poplar stands in compliance with the developed algorithm (Vedmid et
are considered to be of superior productivity and wood al., 2006). The stand characteristics were estimated by
quality to stands of other poplar species (Mashkina et al., grouping the plots by age.
2016; Ehrst et al., 2019). The growth specificities (dynamics of the main
 P. alba is an indigenous species in river floodplains; mensuration characteristics) and the productive capacity
at the same time, it is intolerant to prolonged flooding. of the white poplar stands were analyzed based on the
White poplar prefers moist and damp relatively fertile developed tables. Mathematical modeling of poplar stand
and fertile forest sites (Borodina et al., 2008; González growth was carried out according to previously tested
et al., 2010). It forms predominantly pure closed stands, methods (Anuchin, 1982; Lakida et al., 2006; Miklush,
which inhibits the growth of other trees and shrubs species 2007; Hrom, 2010) using forest management materials
by reducing the available sunlight, nutrients, and water and mathematical statistics methods (Lapach et al.,
(Global Invasive Species, 2015). 2001). About 3,400 survey plots in white poplar stands
 P. alba regenerates mainly by natural seed way. It often have been analyzed to provide sufficient sampling for
produces shoots from accessory buds (González et al., the construction of mathematical models of growth. We
2010; Korshikov et al., 2008; Global Invasive Species, developed an electronic subcompartment database using
2015). Generally, artificial regeneration of poplar stands is the forest inventory data including 150 survey plots in
used in plantation forestry. Polissya zone, 1,550 survey plots in the Forest-Steppe and
 Plantation forestry with the use of fast-growing species 1,700 survey plots in the Steppe zone.
(including white poplar) is one of the ways to increase An important indicator for determining the course
productivity and sustainability of forests, to intensify wood of growth is the average height of the stand since it is
production, namely to improve wood quality, to reduce related to the other parameters; it has less variation than
growing time and to increase yield per unit area (Rusin, other stand characteristics. The Mitcherlich function was
2008; Tsarev et al., 2010). For example, poplar stands can applied to model the height. This function is widely used
produce technically suitable timber with a rotation period in modeling stand growth processes (Lakida et al., 2006).
of 20 years or even less (Tsarev et al., 2010). Poplar The age of 25 years was used as a basic one because white
wood is used as a raw material for biofuel production not poplar stands have the maximum stock volume at this age.
only in Ukraine but elsewhere in the world (Filimonova, The typological analysis of forests was done in
1962; Corenblit et al., 2016; Maksimenko et al., 2016; compliance with the main methodical statements of the
Holloway et al., 2017; Strenge et al., 2018). forest-ecological (Ukrainian) school of the forest typology
 The aim of the study was to assess the current state (Ostapenko and Tkach, 2002; Migunova, 2014; 2017).
and to evaluate the productivity of white poplar stands by
natural zones within Ukraine and define the prospects for
their use for plantation forest cultivation. Results

 About half of the white poplar stands area in the forest
Materials and methods fund of Ukraine are concentrated in Steppe – 49.4%.
 Their area in Forest-Steppe is 42.4% and in Polissya
The objects of the study were white poplar stands in 8.2% only. By origin, stands naturally regenerated from
Ukrainian forests. They cover a total area of more than seeds predominate in Polissya; their area is 55.8%. Forest-
7,600 hectares and grow in various natural zones, namely Steppe and Steppe zones are dominated by stands of
Polissya (forest zone in Ukraine), Forest-Steppe, and vegetative (coppice) origin, with 42.4% and 47.5% of the
Steppe. The study covered pure and mixed stands of area, respectively. In general, the forests of the country
various origin, namely coppice, naturally regenerated are dominated by white poplar stands of vegetative origin
from seeds and planted from seeds, within the white poplar (42.8%) and those regenerated artificially from seeds
range (Fig. 1). (31.0%) (Table 1). However, it should be noted that stands
 The study was carried out based on analysis of forest of vegetative origin have significantly lower productivity
management materials (database of Ukrainian forest compared to artificial stands planted from seeds.
fund), which contained certain forestry and mensuration The age distribution of the white poplar stands is
characteristics of stands (origin, age, diameter, height, severely imbalanced. The analysis of forest management
type of forest site conditions, etc.). To analyze the forest materials indicates a significant predominance of stands
area of white poplar stands, we developed an electronic aged over 40 years in all natural zones within Ukraine. For
subcompartment database using the forest inventory data example, in Polissya, their area is 76–83% depending on
of the Ukrderzhlisproekt Production Association as on the origin. They cover 57–77% in Forest-Steppe and 77–
2016, then converted it from the .vff into .mdb format 87% in the Steppe (Table 2). Such stands rapidly lose their
of MS Access by means of the NewUnPackOHOTA ecological functions. They need to be gradually replaced
programme developed in the Laboratory of New to continue to perform the essential environmental and
Information Technologies of the Ukrainian Research protective functions effectively.

64

Fig. 1

 Table 1
 Table 1
 Table 1. Distribution of the area of white poplar stands in the forest fund of Ukraine by origin within the natural zones
 Table 1. Distribution of the area of white poplar stands in the forest fund of Ukraine by origin within the natural zones
 The age distribution of the white poplar stands is severely imbalanced. The analysis of
 The age distribution of the white poplar stands is severely imbalanced. The analysis of
 forest management materials indicates a significant predominance of stands aged over 40
 forest management materials indicates a significant predominance of stands aged over 40
 years in all natural zones within Ukraine. For example, in Polissya, their area is 76–83%
 years in all natural zones within Ukraine. For example, in Polissya, their area is 76–83%
 depending on the origin. They cover 57–77% in Forest-Steppe and 77–87% in the Steppe
 depending on the origin. They cover 57–77% in Forest-Steppe and 77–87% in the Steppe
 (Table 2). Such stands rapidly lose their ecological functions. They need to be gradually
 (Table 2). Such stands rapidly lose their ecological functions. They need to be gradually
 replaced to continue to perform the essential environmental and protective functions
 replaced to continue to perform the essential environmental and protective functions
 effectively.
 effectively.
 Table 2
 Table 2
 Table 2. Distribution of the area of white poplar stands by 10 year age classes in natural zones
 Table 2. Distribution of the area of white poplar stands by 10 year age classes in natural zones
 Most
 Fig. 1. Distribution map of White poplarMost white poplar(Palancean
 (Populus stands grow inal.,
 moist relatively fertile sites. For example, the
 poplar stands grow et
 white alba) 2018).
 in moist relatively fertile sites. For example, the
Table 1 Fig. 1. Distribution map of Whiteproportion
 proportion of the stands in this forest site type is 76% for Polissya, 32% for Forest-Steppe,
 poplar (Populus alba)in(Pthis
 of the stands forest siteet type
 ALANCEAN al., 2018).
 is 76% for Polissya, 32% for Forest-Steppe,
 and 28% for the whole of Ukraine. The Steppe is dominated by stands in moist fertile sites
Table 1. Distribution of the area of white poplar standsand
 in the
 28% forest fund
 for the wholeof Ukraine
 of Ukraine.by origin
 The Steppe within the natural
 is dominated zones
Table 1. Distribution of the area of white poplar stands in the
 (32%). forest
 In thisfund of zone,
 natural Ukraine by origin
 the proportion within
 of standsthe naturalinbyzones
 growing
 stands in moist fertile sites
 moist relatively fertile sites is
Fig. 2 (32%). In this natural zone, the proportion of stands growing in moist relatively fertile sites is
 16%. Stands in moist fertile sites Origin
 are also common in Forest-Steppe and Steppe; they make
 16%. Stands in moist fertile sites are also common in Forest-Steppe and Steppe; they make
 30 Natural zones Units 31% and 16%Natural
 respectively (Table 3). Artificial from
 31% and 16% respectively (Table 3). Total
 Table 3
 vegetative seed seed
 25 Table 3
 Table 3. Distribution of the area of white poplar stands by types of forest site conditions in natural zones
 ha Table 3.100.1 350.6 poplar stands by types178.1 628.8zones
 Height, m

 Distribution of the area of white of forest site conditions in natural
 20 Polissya
 % 15.9 55.8 models for modal
 To develop mathematical 28.3stands’ growth, 100.0
 it is essential to determine
 15 ha To develop mathematical
 the1,371.1 976.4 models
 correlations between weighted
 for modal stands’ growth,3,231.9
 averages of884.4
 it is essential to determine
 their mensuration characteristics. We defined
 Forest-Steppe the correlations between weighted averages of their mensuration characteristics.
 10 % 42.4 and strength of
 the direction 30.2 100.0used theWe
 27.4mensuration metrics
 relationships between
 defined
 correlation
 the direction and strength of relationships between mensuration metrics used the correlation
 ha 1,791.3 (Table 4). There
 coefficients 674.6 1,303.0
 were strong positive 3,768.9age (A), height (H),
 relationships between
 5 Steppe coefficients (Table 4). There were strong positive relationships between age (A), height (H),
 % 47.5 17.9 34.6
 diameter (D), the sum of cross-sectional areas per 1 ha (G) and stock 100.0 volume per 1 ha (M).
 0 ha
 diameter (D), the sum of cross-sectional areas per 1 ha (G) and stock volume per 1 ha (M).
 The3,262.5 2,001.6
 relationships between 2,365.5 and the stand
 those stand characteristics 7,629.6
 density (N) were either
 Total forest5fund 10 15
 of Ukraine 20 25 30 35 40 45 between
 The relationships 50 those55 stand 60characteristics
 65 31.0 70and the stand100.0density (N) were either
 % strong 42.8 26.2
 negative or very strong negative.
 Age,
 strongyears
 negative or very strong negative.
 Table 4
 Table 4
 Polissya Forest-Steppe Steppe
 Table 4. Correlation matrix of mensuration characteristics of white poplar stands
 Table 4. Correlation matrix of mensuration characteristics of white poplar stands
 Most white poplar stands grow in moist relatively The following functions (1–3) are selected to
fertile sites. For example, the proportion of the stands in approximate the average height of modal stands:
 The following functions (1–3) are selected to approximate the average height of modal
this forest site type is 76% for Polissya, 32% for Forest-The following functions (1–3) are selected to approximate the average height of modal
Steppe, and 28% for the whole of Ukraine. The Steppe stands:
 is
 stands:
dominated by stands in moist fertile sites (32%). In this = 2.13 × (1 − −0.027× )1.06 × 25 
 
 (1) (1)
 = 2.13 × (1 − −0.027× )1.06 × 25 (1)
natural zone, the proportion of stands growing in moist − = 2.23 × (1 − −0.024× 1.01
 ) × 25 
 (2)
relatively fertile sites is 16%. Stands in moist fertile sites − = 2.23 × (1 − −0.024× )1.01 × 25 
 (2) (2)
are also common in Forest-Steppe and Steppe; they make
31% and 16% respectively (Table 3). = 2.22 × (1 − −0.025× )1.04 × 25 
 (3) (3)
 To develop mathematical models for modal stands’Using the Mitcherlich function, we modeled the height dynamics for the white poplar
growth, it is essential to determine the correlations between
 stands. According to the developed mathematical relationships, stands growing within the
weighted averages of their mensuration characteristics. We Using the Mitcherlich function, we modeled the height
 Polissya zone have slightly greater heights compared to stands within the Forest-Steppe and
defined the direction and strength of relationships between dynamics for the white poplar stands. According to the
mensuration metrics used the correlation coefficients Steppe (Fig.developed
 2). The difference is 2–9%.
 mathematical relationships, stands growing
(Table 4). There were strong positive relationships between within the Polissya zone FIG. have2 slightly greater heights
age (A), height (H), diameter (D), the sum of cross- compared to stands within the Forest-Steppe and Steppe
 Fig. 2. Dynamic changes in height of planted modal stands of white poplar.
sectional areas per 1 ha (G) and stock volume per 1 ha (Fig. 2). The difference is 2–9%.
(M). The relationships between those stand characteristics The average diameter is mostly influenced by age and
 The average diameter is mostly influenced by age and height, so the diameter to height
and the stand density (N) were either strong negative or height, so the diameter to height ratio (D/H) approximated
very strong negative. ratio (D/H) by
 approximated
 functionsby functions
 (4–6) (4–6) to
 was used wasmodel
 used tothe
 model
 average the average diameter:
 diameter:
 
 = −0.000024 × 2 + 0.0095 × + 1.094, R2 = 0.90 (4)
 
 65
 − 
 = 0.000055 × 2 + 0.0115 × + 1.05, R2 = 0.92 (5)
 
 = −0.000128 × 2 + 0.014 × + 1.041, R2 = 0.83 (6)

Polissya zone have slightly greater heights compared to stands within the Forest-Steppe and
Steppe (Fig. 2). The difference is 2–9%.
 FIG. 2

 Fig. 2. Dynamic changes in height of planted modal stands of white poplar.

 The average diameter is mostly influenced by age and height, so the diameter to height
ratio (D/H) approximated by functions (4–6) was used to model the average diameter:
 
 = −0.000024 × 2 + 0.0095 × + 1.094, R2 = 0.90 (4) One
 (4)
 of the main stand characteristics is the sum of the
 
 cross-sectional areas of trunks (G). We have adopted it
 
 − 
 = 0.000055 × 2 + 0.0115 × + 1.05, R2 = 0.92 (5) in accordance
 (5) with the regulatory reference materials for
 poplar stands (Kashpor and Strochinskiy, 2013). It is
 = −0.000128 × 2 + 0.014 × + 1.041, R2 = 0.83 (6) (6)
 approximated by the function (7):
 Table 2
 
 One of the main stand characteristics is the sum of the cross-sectional areas of trunks
 Table
(G). We 2.
 have 2. Distribution
 adopted of the area
 it in accordance of
 with of white
 thewhite poplar
 regulatory stands by 10 year
 reference age classes in natural zones
 Table Distribution of the area poplar standsmaterials for poplar
 by 10 year age classes in natural zones
stands (KASHPOR and STROCHINSKIY, 2013). It is approximated by the function (7):
 Natural zones
 Age
 = −0.0408 2
 range, × + 3.385 × − 4.271, R2 = 0.99 (7)
 Polissya Forest-Steppe Steppe
 We usedyears
 forest management materials and data from the sample plots to determine the
density of the stands. The dynamicsha % of stocking are described
 of the relative density ha by % ha %
second-order polynomial functions (8–10): Vegetative regeneration
 1–10
 = 0.000042 × 2 17.9 17.9
 − 0.00657 × + 0.889, R2 = 0.99 177.0 (8) 12.9 51.7 2.9
 − 2 − 0.00343 × + 0.762,
 11–20 = 0.000015 ×1.5 1.5 R2 = 0.99 110.5 (9) 8.1 117.2 6.5
 = 0.000036 × 2 − 0.00466
 21–30 1.3 × + 0.721, 1.3 R2 = 0.99 141.0 (10) 10.3 89.9 5.0
 Simulation
 31–40of the dynamics of tree
 1.5form factors was performed
 1.5 using form 147.3
 height (HF). 10.7 42.4 2.4
The dependence of form heights on age is described by third-order polynomials (11–13):
 41–50 1.7 1.7 191.0 13.9 210.9 11.8
 = 0.000014 × 3 − 0.00359 × 2 + 0.361 × + 0.608, R2 = 0.99 (11)
 51–60 26.6 26.6 191.2 14.0 313.1 17.4
 3
 − = 0.000023 × − 0.00468 × + 0.392 × ,2 2
 R = 0.99 (12)
 61–70 1.3 1.3 240.1 17.5 218.1 12.2
 = 0.000021 × 3 − 0.0044 × 2 + 0.379 × , R2 = 0.99 (13)
 71–80 9.3 9.3 94.9 6.9 373.8 20.9
 The rest of the parameters for the stands were determined by the formulas accepted in
 81–90 – – 74.8 5.5 145.5 8.1
forest taxation (ANUCHIN, 1982; HROM, 2010). Determination coefficients in the range of
 91–100
0.83–0.99 indicate a high validity of 39.0 38.9 Therefore, they were
 the determined dependencies. 2.8 used 0.2 141.5 7.9
 101–110
to create yield – tables for white poplar
 and productivity/capacity – stands. 0.5 – 87.2 4.9
 Total 100.1 100.0 1,371.1 100.0 1,791.3 100.0
 Natural regeneration from seed
 1–10 9.2 2.6 28.8 3.0 17.4 2.6
 11–20 – – 26.0 2.7 19.9 2.9
 21–30 14.7 4.2 34.6 3.5 26.2 3.9
 31–40 26.1 7.4 103.6 10.6 23.6 3.5
 41–50 72.8 20.8 233.2 23.9 68.3 10.1
 51–60 98.1 28.0 219.9 22.5 155.5 23.1
 61–70 87.0 24.8 159.5 16.3 160.9 23.8
 71–80 42.7 12.2 112.4 11.5 139.6 20.7
 81–90 – – 51.0 5.2 29.0 4.3
 91–100 – – 7.4 0.8 7.8 1.2
 101–110 – – – – 26.4 3.9
 Total 350.6 100.0 976.4 100.0 674.6 100.0
 Artificial regeneration from seed
 1–10 – – 19.0 2.2 3.4 0.3
 11–20 1.5 0.8 38.3 4.3 15.6 1.2
 21–30 18.9 10.6 31.8 3.6 108.4 8.3
 31–40 6.7 3.8 106.0 12.0 159.0 12.2
 41–50 126.1 70.8 491.2 55.5 712.5 54.7
 51–60 22.2 12.5 139.1 15.7 226.2 17.4
 61–70 2.2 1.2 45.8 5.2 42.1 3.2
 71–80 0.5 0.3 11.3 1.3 18.5 1.4
 81–90 – – 1.9 0.2 14.7 1.1
 91–100 – – – – 2.3 0.2
 101–110 – – – – 0.3 –
 Total 178.1 100.0 884.4 100.0 1,303.0 100.0

 66

Table 3
 Table 3. Distribution of the area of white poplar stands by types of forest site conditions in natural zones
 Table 3. Distribution of the area of white poplar stands by types of forest site conditions in natural zones
 Natural zones Total forest fund
 Forest site types Polissya Forest-Steppe Steppe of Ukraine
 ha % ha % ha % ha %
 Fresh relatively poor pine site
 2.3 0.4 43.0 1.3 160.6 4.3 205.9 2.7
 type (B2)
 Moist relatively poor pine site
 59.2 9.4 143.6 4.5 188.4 5.0 391.2 5.1
 type (B3)
 Fresh relatively fertile site
 32.0 5.1 954.0 29.5 592.9 15.7 1,578.9 20.7
 type (C2)
 Moist relatively fertile site
 479.1 76.2 1,015.7 31.4 606.5 16.1 2,101.3 27.5
 type (C3)
 Damp relatively fertile site
 16.3 2.6 110.5 3.4 289.7 7.7 416.5 5.5
 type (C4)
 Fresh fertile site type (D2) 25.9 4.1 298.2 9.2 474.8 12.6 798.9 10.5
 Moist fertile site type (D3) 3.4 0.5 571.6 17.7 1,195.6 31.7 1,770.6 23.2
 Other forest site types 10.6 1.7 95.3 3.0 260.4 6.9 366.3 4.8
 Total 628.8 100.0 3,231.9 100.0 3,768.9 100.0 7,629.6 100.0
Table 4
Table 4. Correlation matrix of mensuration characteristics of white poplar stands
 Table 4. Correlation matrix of mensuration characteristics of white poplar stands
 Mensuration N G M
 A (years) H (m) D (cm)
 characteristics Fig. 1 (stems ha-–1) (m2 ha–1) (m3 ha–1)
 Polissya and Forest-Steppe (in grey)
 A (years) 1 0.975 0.994 –0.769 0.873 0.980
 H (m) 0.979 1 0.994 –0.874 0.957 0.998
 D (cm) 0.993 0.996 1 –0.822 0.919 0.996
 N (stems ha–1) –0.784 –0.881 –0.837 1 –0.968 –0.846
 G (m2 ha–1) 0.897 0.968 0.940 –0.961 1 0.942
 M (m3 ha–1) 0.982 0.998 0.997 –0.851 0.955 1
 Steppe
 A (years) 1 – – – – –
 H (m) 0.978 1 – – – –
 D (cm) 0.979 0.999 1 – – –
 N (stems ha–1) –0.778 –0.878 –0.865 1 – –
 G (m2 ha–1) 0.921 0.980 0.974 –0.953 1 –
 Fig. 1. Distribution map of White poplar (Populus alba) (PALANCEAN et al., 2018).
 M (m3 ha–1) 0.989 0.997 0.998 –0.837 0.961 1
 Fig. 2
 30
 25
 Height, m

 20
 15
 10
 5
 0
 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70
 Age, years
 Polissya Forest-Steppe Steppe

 Fig. 2. Dynamic changes in height of planted modal stands
 of white poplar.

 67

Fig. 2. Dynamic changes in height of planted modal stands of white poplar.
PolissyaUsing
 zone have
 stands.
 Steppe
 the
 Polissya slightly
 According
 (Fig.
 Mitcherlich
 zone 2).have greater
 =The2.22 × heights
 toslightly
 the(1developed
 difference
 function, compared
 we is−0.025× 
 greater
 − 2–9%.
 modeled theto
 heights
 )1.04 stands
 mathematical
 height
 compared
 × 25 within
 dynamics theforForest-Steppe
 relationships,
 to stands stands
 the
 withinwhite and
 thegrowing(3) within and
 poplar
 Forest-Steppe the
 
Steppe (Fig. 2). The =
 difference −0.000024 × 2 + 0.0095 × + 1.094,
 isdifference
 2–9%. R2 = 0.90 (4)and
stands. Polissya
 According
 Steppe
 Using zone
 to
 (Fig.
 
 the Mitcherlichthe2). have
 The slightly
 developed
 function, greater
 mathematical
 we is heights
 2–9%.
 modeled the compared
 FIG. 2
 relationships,
 height to stands
 stands
 dynamics
 The average diameter is mostly influenced by age and height, so the diameter to height within
 growing
 for the the Forest-Steppe
 within
 white the
 poplar
 Steppe
Polissyaratio
 zone have(Fig. 2). developed
 The difference ×FIG.
 is +20.0115
 2–9%.
 
stands. According
 (D/H) toslightly
 the
 approximated greater byheights
 = 0.000055 compared
 2(4–6)
 mathematical
 functions to stands
 FIG.
 relationships,
 was used + within
 × 2 to standsthe
 1.05,
 model the
 2Forest-Steppe and
 = 0.92 within
 Rgrowing
 average the
 diameter: (5)
 − Fig. 2. Dynamic changes in height of planted modal stands of white poplar.
Steppe (Fig.
Polissya zone2). The slightly
 haveFig.
 difference is
 greater 2–9%. heights 2compared FIG.
 to stands 2 ofwithin theof Forest-Steppe
 2 and
 2. Dynamic
 == −0.000128
 changes
 −0.000024
 Fig. 2. Dynamicin ×
 × 
 height
 ++
 of planted
 2 changes
 0.0140.0095 modal
 × ×of
 in height stands
 + planted
 + 1.094,
 1.041,
 whitestands
 modal poplar. =0.83
 RR2 =white 0.90poplar. (4)
 
 The average diameter is mostly (6)
Steppe (Fig. 2). 
 The difference is 2–9%. FIG. 2influenced by age and height, so the diameter to height
 Fig. 2. Dynamic changes in height of planted modal stands of white poplar.
 2
 Theratio average
 One
 (D/H) ofdiameter
 The the mainis=diameter
 approximated
 average mostly
 0.000055
 stand influenced× 2 +(4–6)
 characteristics
 by functions
 is mostly by isage
 0.0115 the
 wasand ×used
 sum height,
 + 1.05,
 ofage
 tothe socross-sectional
 model the = average
 diameter
 Rthe 0.92
 so thetoareas height
 diameter: of trunks (5)
 Fig. 2. Dynamic changes in heightFIG.
 − of planted 2 influenced by
 modal stands of white poplar.
 and height, diameter to height
ratio (D/H)
 (G). ratio approximated
 We (D/H) haveThe adopted
 average by
 approximated
 = functions
 it in accordance
 diameter
 −0.000024 (4–6)
 is2×
 by functions was
 mostly
 2 with
 + used to
 the
 influenced
 (4–6)
 0.0095 wasmodel
 ×regulatory
 the
 by+age
 used average
 and
 to model
 1.094, reference diameter:
 height,
 the materials
 2 so
 2 Raverage= the diameter
 0.90 for poplar
 diameter: to height
 
 Fig. 2.=Dynamic
 
 −0.000128 changes in ×height
 +of0.014 planted × +stands
 modal 1.041, of white poplar.R = 0.83 (6) (4)
 stands
 Theratio (K(D/H)
 average diameter
 = −0.000024
 ASHPOR and=Sis−0.000024
 approximated 2 by
 mostly
 TROCHINSKIY
 × + influenced
 0.0095 ×, 2013).
 functions 2×+ (4–6)
 by Itage
 +
 0.0095is approximated
 was
 1.094,and×used height,
 + 1.094, =by
 toR2model
 so the
 0.90 the
 the function
 Raverage
 diameter 2
 = 0.90 to(7):
 diameter:
 height (4) volume of poplar stands in Forest-Steppe and Steppe is
 2 2 (4)
 One of−0.0408
 the main × stand R2 = 0.92 areas of trunks (5)
 2 +characteristics
 = 0.000055 × +is0.0115 the sum × of+the 1.05,cross-sectional
 (7)
 
ratio (D/H)
 The approximated
 average = diameter by=functions
 − 
 is mostly
 −0.000024 (4–6)
 3.385
 influenced
 2 × was
 ×+ used
 2
 by
 0.0095 to model
 − 4.271,
 age and× the
 height,
 + average
 1.094,
 2 so the diameterR2==0.90
 diameter:
 R 0.99to height much
 (7) (4) smaller at the base age (70 years), 427 m3 ha–1, and
 × R+2 = 0.92 R2 =materials
 
 =adopted
 0.000055 × + 0.0115 2× + 1.05,
 (G). We have 
 it=in accordance
 0.000055 × with the regulatory
 + 0.0115 reference
 1.05, 0.92 (5) poplar (5) 3
 for
 
ratio (D/H) We = used
 approximated
 
 − 
 −0.000024 forest management
 = −0.000128
 by × 2 +(4–6)
 functions
 − × materials
 0.0095 2
 was +×0.014 2 +and
 used to data
 +from
 ×model
 1.094, 1.041,
 the Rthe sample
 = 0.90
 average R22plots
 diameter: = 0.83 to determine (4) the 394 (6)m ha –1
 , respectively. Relative indicators of the stands
 
 stands
 (KASHPOR and STROCHINSKIY =2 0.000055, 2013). × +It0.0115 is approximated × +2 1.05, by theRfunction = 0.92 (7): (5)
 density
 
 = 
 =of −0.000128
 the
 
 One
 We
 stands. = used ×The 
 −0.000128
 − 
 −0.000024 forest
 dynamics
 2
 × stand
 + 0.014
 + 20.0095 × management
 ×2of 
 + +the1.041,
 0.014
 × + 1.094,
 relative
 × + materials
 density
 1.041, R
 Rof2 = of
 2 =the
 0.83
 0.90 and
 stocking
 R 2 data
 = 0.83 from
 are described (6) byin Polissya
 (4) of trunks (6) exceed those of the stands in Forest-Steppe and
 ==of the main characteristics × +is1.05, the sumR cross-sectional
 R2 = 0.99 areas
 
 0.000055
 −0.0408 ×× 2 + +
 3.3850.0115
 2 × − 4.271,
 = 0.92 (5) (7)
 
 second-order the
 − 
 One(G). of the main
 sample
 polynomial = plots
 functions
 −0.000128 to × determine
 (8–10):
 + 0.014 × the + density
 1.041, of the R 2 stands. The
 = 0.83 the (6)Steppe by 13–31% and 20–44%, respectively. This
 
 WeWe One have ofstand
 
 used adopted
 the characteristics
 main itstand
 in accordance is the sum
 characteristics withof isdatathe regulatory
 the
 the cross-sectional
 sum of the reference areas materials
 cross-sectional of trunks areasfor of poplar
 trunks
 
 dynamics = forest
 0.000055
 = 0.000042 management
 of 2the
 × ×2relative materials
 +20.0115
 − 0.00657 × and
 density ×+ 1.05,+of from
 0.889, R22the
 stocking= 0.92 sample R2plots
 are = described
 0.99 to determine (5) (8) the
 difference gradually decreases with age (Fig. 3). Forest-
(G). We = −0.000128
 
 − 
 have × + 0.014 × + 1.041, R = 0.83 (6)
 (G). adopted
 stands
 We (KOne have
 ASHPORof it theinand accordance
 main
 adopted stand
 STROCHINSKIY
 itdynamics with the
 characteristics
 in accordance , 2013). regulatory
 with Itisisthe reference
 sum
 approximated
 regulatoryof the materials
 cross-sectional
 by
 of reference the function for poplar
 materials areas
 (7): for of trunks
 poplar
 
 density
 by
 of the second-order
 stands.
 =
 The
 0.000015
 2 polynomial
 × 
 of
 2 the relative
 − 0.00343 functions ×
 density
 + (8–10):
 0.762,
 2
 stocking
 R 2
 = 0.99
 are described Steppe
 by
 (9) stands have 8–18% higher productive capacity
stands (KOne (G).
 ASHPOR of the
 stands =We and
 −0.000128
 (K main STROCHINSKIY
 − 
 have
 
 ASHPOR =stand adopted×
 and
 −0.0408 ×, in
 it+
 characteristics 2013).
 STROCHINSKIY
 0.014
 2accordance ×
 +(8–10):Itis 
 3.385 is,the
 +approximated
 ×1.041,
 2013). with
 sum
 −Itof the
 is the
 4.271, by Rthe=function
 regulatory
 cross-sectional
 approximated 0.83 reference
 by the (7):
 areas R2materials
 of
 function trunks
 = 0.99 (6)for poplar
 (7): (7)
 second-order
 
 polynomial
 = 0.000036
 functions
 × 2
 − 0.00466 × + 0.721, R 2
 = 0.99 (10)
 than Steppe stands. The difference also decreases with age.
 (8)
 2 2
 stands
 = −0.0408 ×−0.0408
 and +S 3.385 ×2 + 2− 4.271, =
 Rmaterials0.99 (7)
(G). We have (K
 adopted itstand
 =inforest
 accordance with ,the
 the 2013). −It×
 ×regulatory is the
 approximated
 reference by the 2 function
 for to(7):
 We 2 poplar
 used
 ASHPOR = management
 × ×
 TROCHINSKIY 3.385 materials and
 4.271, data from the sample =R plots
 of= trunks
 0.99 determine (8)the (7)
 One of the main
 characteristics
 0.000042 −is0.00657 sum of + cross-sectional
 0.889, areas
 R 0.99 The poplar stands in Polissya have 9–13% lower stock
stands We
 (K used
 density Simulation
 forest
 and of Sthe of
 management the dynamics
 stands. The , 2013).2 of tree
 materials
 dynamics It and
 is formdata factors
 approximated
 of the from the
 relative was by performed
 sample
 the
 density plots
 functionof using
 to (7):
 stocking Rform
 determine2
 = height
 0.99
 are the (HF). the
 described by(7)
 ASHPOR
(G). We have adopted We =
 used −0.0408
 TROCHINSKIYforest
 it in accordance
 − = 0.000015
 ×
 management +with 3.385
 × the
 ×
 materials − 4.271,
 and data
 2 regulatory reference materials
 − 0.00343 × + 0.762,
 from the sample
 R2 = for
 plots to
 0.99poplar (9) (9)
 determine volume when compared to the growth data of the white
densityThe dependence
 of second-order
 the stands.We of Sused of
 The ×form 2 heights on
 dynamics
 forest
 polynomial management of
 functions age
 the −is described
 relative
 materials
 (8–10): by third-order
 density
 and data of from
 stocking Rpolynomials
 the 2 are described
 =of 0.99
 sample (11–13):
 plots by
 (7)
 to determine the
stands (KASHPOR density
 = −0.0408 and
 
 the stands.
 + 3.385
 = 0.000036,×2013).
 TROCHINSKIY The ×dynamics
 4.271,
 32 − It0.00466 is of the
 approximated relative
 × 2+ 0.721, by density
 the function stocking
 (7):
 R 2
 = 0.99 2
 are described
 (10) (10) poplar
 by stands in the Don floodplain (Ermolova, 2015).
second-order 
 polynomial =polynomial
 0.000014
 functions × 
 (8–10): − 0.00359 ×from relative
 +the 0.361 × plots+of0.608, 2R = 0.99 (11)by
 We density
 used forest of the
 managementstands. The dynamics
 materials and of
 data the density
 sample stocking
 to determine are described
 the For (8) Forest-Steppe, the difference is 24–32% and Steppe,
 2
 second-order 
 
 = −0.0408 =
 2 0.000042 functions
 × + 3.385 × − 4.271,
 × (8–10):
 − 0.00657 × + 0.889, 2
 R = 0.99 R = 0.99 (7)
 Simulation of the dynamics of tree 3 form factors was 2 performed 2 using form height (HF).
density We 
 of stands.
 second-order
 the Simulation
 = 0.000042 polynomial
 The =× =2 functions
 0.000023
 dynamics −of of the
 0.00657 dynamics
 × (8–10):
 the × 0.00657
 −
 2relative 
 2 + density
 0.00468 0.889, ×of of×tree +R0.762,
 +0.889,
 0.392
 stocking form=×0.99 , factors 2
 R2R= =0.99 0.99
 was(8) (12)
 30–44%.
 used forest management
 − 
 = 0.000042
 − 0.000015
 materials × and× − data − from0.00343 × the +
 sample plotsare described
 to determine by
 the (8)
 (9)
 The dependence of form heights 3on age2is described by third-order2polynomials (11–13):
second-order
density of the performed
 polynomial
 
 − 
 stands. == functions
 0.000021
 0.000015
 − 
 
 The =
 =dynamics
 using=(8–10):
 0.000042
 0.000036 ×× 0.000015
 2
 of×form
 −− × 0.0044
 3the
 20.00343
 −relative
 ×− height
 
 0.00466×
 2 ×
 0.00657
 −
 2
 ×+2(HF).
 density
 +
 0.00343 0.379
 × 0.762,
 
 +of + ×× The
 ,+R0.762,
 0.889,
 stocking
 0.721, =dependence
 0.99
 are describedRR2R 2
 2= =
 =20.99
 0.990.99 (9)
 by of (13)(10) (8)
 (9)
 
 = 0.000014 × − 0.00359 × + 0.361 × + 0.608, R = 0.99 (11)
 
second-order The =form
 polynomial
 
 = rest
 0.000036
 
 Simulation ofheights
 0.000042
 the parameters
 ×
 functions
 = of × 
 0.000036
 − on
 2 2
 −
 the=(8–10):− age
 0.00466
 0.000015
 dynamics for
 0.00657 is
 × of the
 2 described
 ×
 −× stands
 × 
 tree 
 30.00466
 2+
 +
 form were
 0.889,
 0.721,
 − 0.00343 by
 ×factors third-order
 determined
 ×was
 + 0.721, RR 22
 by
 +performed== 0.99
 the
 0.99
 0.762, using polynomials
 formulas22
 RR == 0.99 (8)
 accepted
 (10)
 0.99 height (HF).
 2 form
 inGrowing
 (9)
 (10) poplars in plantations
 − = 0.000023 × − 0.00468 × + 0.392 2
 × , R = 0.99 (12)
 forest
 Simulation
 taxation
 The dependence
 
 (11–13):
 of (A
 the=dynamics
 
 − 
 = 0.000042
 Simulation 0.000015
 NUCHIN
 =
 of 0.000036
 ×the
 form
 of , 1982;
 of
 2 ×−tree
 heights
 dynamics
 2HROM
 ×form
 0.00657
 − 2
 −
 age, 2010).
 offactors
 on0.00343 0.00466
 × ×was
 is described
 tree +form Determination
 ×+
 0.889, performed
 0.762,
 factors +
 by0.721,was using
 third-order coefficients
 22
 RR == 0.99
 performed 0.99
 form
 polynomials height
 using
 2 in
 R = 0.99 the
 (HF).
 form range
 (9)
 (8)
 (11–13): of
 height (HF). (10)
 = 0.000021 × 3 − 0.0044 × 2 + 0.379 × , 2 R2 = 0.99 (13)
 In(11) the world, poplar stands are often grown as dense
 0.83–0.99
The dependence
 =of
 The dependence indicate
 form
 0.000036
 Simulation a of
 =heights high
 =× of
 0.000015 form validity
 on2 age is2described
 the
 0.000014 −heights
 ×0.00466
 dynamics
 × of−on the
 3of
 −determined
 ×
 age
 0.00343 
 tree by
 is+
 0.00359 third-order
 0.721,
 form
 described
 × + dependencies.
 2by+polynomials
 factors
 × 0.762, was R2×=Therefore,
 performed
 third-order
 0.361 0.99(11–13):
 polynomials
 + usingthey
 0.608, form were
 2(10)
 = (9)
 R(11–13): used
 height
 0.99 (HF).
 − 
 The rest ofproductivity/capacity
 the parameters for the stands were determined by the formulas accepted plantations in with short rotation periods (Klašnja et al.,
 to create yield and tables for white poplar stands. 22(11)
 2
 =(11)
 3 2
 The dependence
 Simulation
 =of
 
 0.000014
 the dynamics of ×
 =×form 2=−
 0.000014 of−0.000023
 0.00359
 heights
 tree on
 ×form 3age −×× 
 factors
 0.00359
 −+ 0.361
 is3+described
 was
 0.00468 ×2 third-order
 by
 ×performed ×+
 + 20.608,
 0.361 using
 + 2× 
 R0.392 R+×=0.608,
 polynomials
 form
 = 0.99 0.99
 heightR(HF).
 , (11–13):
 (10) 0.99 (11)
 (12)
 = 0.000036
 0.00466 × 0.721,
 forest taxation − 
 (ANUCHIN, 1982; HROM , 2010). 2Determination coefficients in the range of 2006; Rédei et al., 2006; Andriychuk, 2007; Fang et al.,
 ==(12)
 3 2 2
The dependence
 
 Simulation of
 
 form
 of
 − the=heights
 0.000023
 ==0.000021
 dynamics
 on=of
 0.000014 age× is××
 tree
 0.000023 described
 − 
 form
 3
 30.00468
 −− × 3by−
 0.00359
 factors
 0.0044 ×third-order
 ×
 was
 0.00468
 × +2 2
 0.392
 performed
 + +
 0.379 ×2 , × R+
 ×polynomials
 0.361 using
 +
 × 0.392
 , form ×=0.608,
 (11–13): 0.99
 heightR
 , R 22 =
 R(HF). 0.99
 0.99
 0.99 (11)
 (12)
 (13)
 0.83–0.99 indicate − 
 a high validity of the determined dependencies. Therefore, they were used 2007; Rusin, 2008; Tsarev et al., 2010; Fuchylo et al.,
 R2(12)
 2
 =(11)
 3 2 2 (13)
 
 =
The dependence =
 
 of The
 0.000014
 0.000021
 form rest of×
 heights
 = × on
 the 
 3 − 0.00359
 0.000021 = −age 0.0044
 0.000023
 parameters 3×
 is×described − 
 for ×× 2 3 + 0.361
 +bystands
 the
 0.0044 0.379
 − 0.00468 ×
 third-order
 × 2 ,
 were +×0.379
 + 20.608,
 ×determined , R
 + 0.392
 polynomials by ×=the
 (11–13):0.99
 , R
 formulas = 0.99
 0.99
 accepted (12)
 (13)
 in Rédei et al., 2012; Tullus et al., 2012; Wang et al.,
 to create yield − 
 and
 productivity/capacity tables for white poplar×stands. 2014;
 22 = 0.99
 (13)
 2 (12)
 3
 The
 rest of
 forest 
 = the
 0.000014
 taxation parameters
 =
 rest0.000023
 =of0.000021
 (A 3for ×, the
 × parameters
 − ×stands
 0.00359
 1982; − 30.00468
 −H were
 0.0044
 × 2, stands
 + 2 +
 ×determined
 ×
 0.361
 2010).
 2 0.392
 +×0.379 by the
 +×0.608,
 ×
 determined
 Determination formulas
 , , Rby theaccepted
 coefficients Rin in
 =(11)
 0.99
 the range (13)
 of
 The
 − 
 the
 NUCHIN forROM the were formulas accepted 2014;in Mashkina et al., 2016), mainly on soils not suitable
forest 
 taxation (A , 1982; 3 HROM3, 2010).2 Determination coefficients R in
 22 the range of
 =the0.99 (13)
 forest= taxation
 0.83–0.99
 Theindicate
 0.000021
 NUCHIN
 − rest
 = 0.000023 of×NUCHIN
 (A the
 a high parameters
 −×0.0044
 validity
 , 1982; ×for
 H ROM
 of
 − 0.00468 the for growing crops. Such plantations have high biomass
 the ,stands
 +determined
 0.379
 2010).
 × 2
 + ×were determined
 , dependencies.
 Determination
 0.392 × , byTherefore,
 coefficients formulas they
 in (12)accepted
 thewere
 range usedin
 of
0.83–0.99
 The indicate
 forest
 to
 rest
 0.83–0.99 ayield
 high
 oftaxation
 create the validity
 (A×
 and
 parameters
 indicate of 0.0044
 3 for
 a high
 NUCHIN ,the
 the determined
 1982; ×H
 productivity/capacity
 stands
 validity of dependencies.
 +,determined
 2010).
 2 tables
 were
 the
 ROM for white
 determined byTherefore,
 ×Determination
 poplar R2they
 stands.
 the formulas
 , dependencies. were in
 coefficients used
 accepted
 Therefore,
 = 0.99 thewere
 in
 they
 (13) yield
 rangeper unit area. Fluctuations in the current increment
 of
 used
 The rest of the parameters for the stands were determined
 = 0.000021 − 0.379
to create yield and productivity/capacity tablesoffor white poplar stands. were of poplar plantations on an industrial scale in Sweden, the
forest The0.83–0.99
 taxation
 torest (A
 create
 of indicate
 yield
 the and a high
 , 1982; validity
 HROM , stands
 2010).
 productivity/capacity
 parameters for the the determined
 Determination
 tables
 were for dependencies.
 coefficients
 white
 by the formulas accepted in forest taxation (Anuchin,
 NUCHIN determined poplar
 by the Therefore,
 in
 stands.
 formulas the rangethey
 accepted of
 in used
0.83–0.99
forest to create
 indicate
 taxation (A ayield
 high
 NUCHIN and
 , productivity/capacity
 validity
 1982; of
 H the
 ROM ,determined
 2010). tables for white
 dependencies.
 Determination poplar stands.
 Therefore,
 1982; Hrom, 2010). Determination coefficients in the range
 coefficients they
 in thewere
 rangeused
 of United Kingdom, Italy, Belgium, Germany, Poland, Spain,
to create yield
0.83–0.99 and
 indicate ofproductivity/capacity
 a 0.83–0.99
 high validity ofindicate
 the tables a white
 for
 determined high validity
 poplar stands.
 dependencies. of thethey
 Therefore, determined
 were used and the USA are within 5–13 m3 ha–1 per year on average,
 used to create yield sometimes even up to 36 m ha per year (Schweier, 2012;
 3 –1
to create yield and dependencies. Therefore,
 productivity/capacity they
 tables for white were
 poplar stands.
 and productivity/capacity tables for white poplar stands. Tullus et al., 2012; Henriksson and Henriksson, 2015;
 Taking into account the predominance – and sufficient Lindegaard et al., 2016). That should be taken into account
 representation in Steppe – of the moist relatively fertile when growing poplar plantations (Fuchylo et al., 2014).
 sites, the corresponding tables were developed describing Particularly relevant is the introduction of plantations on
 the growth patterns (dynamics of the main stand land unsuitable for agriculture, of which there are about 10
 characteristics) and the productive capacity of white million hectares in Ukraine (Kravchuk et al., 2013).
 poplar stands in this type of forest site conditions, a sketch Rytter et al. (2011) showed that poplar plantations,
 of which is presented in Table 5. including white poplars, were as cost-effective as
 cultivation of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karsten)
 in forest land and various grain and industrial crops on
 Discussion agricultural land in Sweden. In Estonia (Tullus et al.,
 2012), hybrid poplar plantations were found to have higher
 The productive capacity of poplar stands profitability than silver birch (Betula pendula Roth.) and
 other species planted on formerly arable land. Researchers
 According to the constructed yield tables, the most from Canada (Stanturf et al., 2001) and Serbia (Keča et
 Fig. 2. Dynamic changes in height of planted modal stands of white poplar.
 productive are the modal stands of Polissya. Their stock al., 2012) came to similar conclusions. According to their
 volume reaches 492 m ha at the age of 70. The stock data, the profitability of poplar plantations is higher than
 3 –1
 Fig. 3

 600
 Stock volume, m3·ha-1

 500
 400
 300
 200
 100
 0
 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70
 Age, years
 Polissya Forest-Steppe
 Steppe by Ermolova (2015)
 Fig. 3. Dynamics of stock volumes of white poplar stands.
 Fig. 3. Dynamics of stock volumes of white poplar stands.

 68

Table 5
Table 5. Sketch
Table 5. Sketch of
 of yield
 yield and
 and productive
 productive capacity
 capacity tables
 tables for
 for white
 white poplar
 poplar stands
 stands in
 in moist
 moist relatively
 relatively fertile
 fertile type
 type of
 of forest
 forest site
 site
conditions in various natural zones of Ukraine
conditions in various natural zones of Ukraine
 Tree stand indicators
 A
 N G M ΔM (m3 ha–1 year–1)
 (years) H (m) D (cm) f
 (stems ha–1) (m2 ha–1) (m3 ha–1) average actual
 Polissya
 10 7.6 9.0 2,484 15.9 0.509 62 6.2 9.2
 20 13.8 17.6 1,099 26.7 0.471 174 8.7 11.4
 30 18.7 25.4 645 32.7 0.458 280 9.3 10.2
 40 22.5 32.4 428 35.3 0.452 359 9.0 7.2
 50 25.4 38.4 320 37.1 0.449 423 8.5 6.0
 60 27.6 43.6 253 37.8 0.447 466 7.8 3.6
 70 29.3 48.2 207 37.7 0.445 492 7.0 2.4
 Forest-Steppe
 10 7.2 8.4 2,382 13.1 0.483 46 4.6 7.0
 20 13.0 16.3 1,096 22.9 0.475 141 7.1 10.0
 30 17.5 23.5 657 28.5 0.468 233 7.8 9.0
 40 21.1 30.0 450 31.8 0.459 308 7.7 7.0
 50 23.9 35.6 338 33.6 0.452 362 7.2 5.0
 60 26.1 40.3 269 34.3 0.446 400 6.7 3.6
 70 27.9 44.2 225 34.5 0.444 427 6.1 2.6
 Steppe
 10 6.9 8.0 2,320 11.6 0.489 39 3.9 6.0
 20 12.5 15.9 1,025 20.4 0.476 122 6.1 8.6
 30 17.0 22.9 619 25.5 0.467 202 6.7 7.6
 40 20.5 28.6 444 28.5 0.458 268 6.7 6.2
 50 23.3 33.0 354 30.3 0.450 317 6.3 4.6
 60 25.4 36.1 310 31.7 0.444 358 6.0 3.8
 70 27.1 37.7 295 32.9 0.442 394 5.6 3.6

that of Manchurian red pine (Pinus tabuliformis Carr.), P. alba L. is one of the main forest-forming species in
Norway spruce, and black walnut (Juglans nigra L.) Hungarian forests, occupying 3.4% or about 64,000 ha of
(Wang et al., 2014). the total area (Rédei et al., 2006; 2010; 2012) and Rebola-
 The increase in the area of plantations with short Lichtenberg et al. (2019) have proved that the addition of
rotation period (including white poplar) around the world 20–30% of Robinia pseudoacacia L. in the composition of
is due to the need to reduce the area of land used for food white poplar plantations leads to mutual advantages.
production, as well as environmental benefits of renewable The feature of Ukrainian forestry is mainly the
energy, and grants for afforestation of former agricultural environmental significance of forests and the high
 proportion, up to 50%, of the forests of limited exploitation,
land (Wang et al., 2014).
 as well as a significant proportion, 15.8%, of reserved
 Poplars (Populus spp.) are increasingly used in many
 forests, which has a steady upward trend. Therefore,
European countries for the short-rotation plantations for
 it is important to normalize the balance between the
biomass production as a sustainable energy source (Tullus consumption of timber resources and the regeneration of
et al., 2012). For example, in Italy, poplar plantations cover forests. One way of doing this is to establish plantations of
an area of over 100,000 ha (Fang et al., 2007). In Sweden, fast-growing tree species, which will significantly increase
energy crop plantations cover more than 20,000 ha the volume of small-scale production.
(Kravchuk et al., 2013). Poplar plantations cover 13.5% When selecting a site to establish a white poplar
of the total forested area in China (Wilske et al., 2009). In plantation, the ecological range of white poplar is to be
Poland, over 200 cultivars of poplars and willows are used considered. The humidity limit of the ecological range is
in plantation forestry (Andriychuk, 2007). arid soil.

 69

Conclusions Anuchin, N.P., 1982. Lesnaya taksatsiya [Forest inventory].
 Moskva: Lesnaya promyshlennost’. 552 p.
Among the members of genus Populus L., the white poplar Borodina, N.V., Kovalev, V.V., Rudnik, A.M., Emelyanova,
(Populus alba L.) stands rank third in the Ukrainian forests I.V., 2008. Farmakohnostychne doslidzhennya lystya
in terms of area (7,600 ha) behind the aspen (Populus Populus alba L. [Pharmacognostic research of Populus alba
tremula L.) (34,300 ha) and black poplar (Populus nigra L.]. Zaporizhzhya Medical Journal, 2 (47): 170–172
L.) (13,500 ha) stands. P. alba is an indigenous species Corenblit, D., Steiger, J., Charrier, G., Darrozes, J.,
in the floodplains of rivers; however, it is intolerant of Garófano‐Gómez, V., Garreau, A., Lambs, L., 2016.
prolonged flooding. In Ukraine, white poplar stands are Populus L. establishment and fluvial landform construction:
mainly concentrated in Steppe and Forest-Steppe. They biogeomorphic dynamics within a channelized river. Earth
are coppice and planted stands growing in moist and fresh Surface Processes and Landforms, 41 (9): 1276–1292.
relatively fertile sites and moist fertile sites. https://doi.org/10.1002/esp.3954
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of Ukraine are concentrated in the Steppe zone, making Polucheniye mezhvidovyh hibridov (Populus alba ×
49.4%. The stands cover 42.4% in the Forest-Steppe zone P. bolleana) × P. × сanescens s ispolzovaniyem kultury in
and only 8.2% in Polissya. The stands of natural seed origin vitro [The generation of interspecific hybrids in (Populus
predominate in Polissya (55.8%) and stands of coppice alba × P. bolleana) × P. сanescens by in vitro culture].
origin in the Forest-Steppe and Steppe zones (42.4% and Sibirian Journal of Forest Science, 2: 45–52. https://doi.
47.5%, respectively). org/10.15372/SJFS20190204
 The age distribution of the white poplar stands is Eichhorn, M.P., Paris, P., Herzog, F., Incoll, L.D.,
severely imbalanced due to the predominance of stands Liagre, F., Mantzanas, K., Mayus, M., Moreno, G.,
aged over 40 years in all natural zones within Ukraine. Papanastasis, V.D.J., Pilbeam, D., Pisanelli, A., Dupraz,
 The most productive are the modal stands in Polissya. C., 2006. Silvoarable systems in Europe – past, present
Their stock volume reaches 492 m3 ha–1 at the age of 70. and future prospects. Agroforestry Systems, 67 (1): 29–50.
The stock volume of poplar stands in Forest-Steppe and https://doi.org/10.1007/s10457-005-1111-7
Steppe is much smaller at the base age (70 years), 427 m3 Ermolova, A.S., 2015. Sostoyaniye, rost i resursnyy potentsial
ha–1 and 394 m3 ha–1, respectively. nasazhdeniy topolya belogo v poymah rek Stepnogo
 The developed growth and productivity tables should Pridonya [Condition, growth and resource potential of
be used when planning and prioritizing the relevant white poplar plants in the floodplains of the Steppe Pridonje
forestry interventions in white poplar stands. rivers]. PhD thesis. Pushkino: VNIILM. 198 р.
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Acknowledgements different management patterns. Journal of Environmental
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This work contains results from the scientific project “To jenvman.2006.09.014
study growth and development of forest crops planted Filimonova, V.D., 1962. Kultura topoley za hranicey [The
with containerized planting material and to develop Poplar culture abroad]. Moskva: Goslesbumizdat. 134 p.
recommendations on how to improve the technology Fuchylo, Ya.D., Sbytna, M.V., Fuchylo, D.Ya., 2014.
of their establishment” (grant 0120U101897), which Osoblyvosti stvorennya plantatsiyi topoli v umovakh
was supported by the State Forest Resources Agency volohoho suhrudu [Features of creation of poplar
of Ukraine. The authors are grateful to the staff of the plantations in moist sandy clay soil conditions]. Forestry
Laboratory of Silviculture and Forest Melioration and of and Forest Melioration, 125: 144–147.
Forestry of the Ukrainian Research Institute of Forestry Global Invasive Species Database (GISD), 2015. Species
and Forest Melioration named after G. M. Vysotsky for profile Populus alba. https://www.iucngisd.org/gisd/
their support and assistance with this research. The authors species.php?sc=261
would like to thank the Executive Editor, the Editor of the González, E., Comín, F.A., Muller, E., 2010. Seed dispersal,
manuscript, and the anonymous reviewers for helping to germination and early seedling establishment of Populus
improve the earlier versions of this paper. alba L. under simulated water table declines in different
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