Recognition of stages of montane Norway spruce response to multiple stressimpact using crown and branch structure transformation analysis

Crown structure transformation (formation of secondary shoots of different orders in successive series on damaged and/or defoliated branches) is a ver y sensitive indicator of life history analysis of the tree. Response of six probably autochthonous Norway spruce stands in the Krkonose Mts. to synerg istic action of natural and anthropogenic stress impacts has been investiga ted using selected indicators since 1992. Tree crowns on the plot were visu ally investigated and classified into several-categories of crown structure transformation. One or more trees from most frequent categories were selec ted for investigation of the branch structure transformation. Distinct seco ndary shoot formation, which compensates a defoliation of primary shoots, i ndicates overcharging of ,,stress exceedance starting level". ,,Significant harmful effect time" can be detected by estimation of the time of terminat ion of annual wood production of primary shoots. Trends of annual wood prod uction time series of the branch base and of the sum of all lateral shoots of branch investigated inform us about possible subsequent development of t he branch.