Winter Climate Limits Subantarctic Low Forest Growth and Establishment

Winter climate plays a crucial role in limiting the growth and establishment of subantarctic low forest on Campbell Island, despite overall warming trends. Research reveals that while warmer winters (mean temperatures >7 °C) enhance seedling survival and recruitment, they also increase metabolic stress in established plants, reducing growth rates. Conversely, drier winters (total precipitation <400 mm) further optimize establishment conditions. The study used dendroecological methods and local climate data to analyze the effects of summer and winter climatic variables on two treeline-forming species, Dracophyllum longifolium and Dracophyllum scoparium, over the latter half of the 20th century. Findings suggest that future winter warming may have complex, contrasting effects on plant growth and establishment globally.

Harsch, M. A., McGlone, M. S., & Wilmshurst, J. M. (2014). Winter Climate Limits Subantarctic Low Forest Growth and Establishment. PLoS ONE, 9(4), e93241. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0093241