Higher planting density accelerates structural heterogeneity and shifts growth dominance earlier toward large trees in Chinese fir plantations

Key Points

• Higher planting density accelerates structural heterogeneity in Chinese fir plantations, fostering ecological diversity.
• The shift in growth dominance toward larger trees is evident at 5 years post-planting, indicating rapid forest development.
• Analysis of growth patterns among varying densities reveals significant changes in tree size distribution and competition dynamics.
• These findings highlight potential benefits for forest management, optimizing growth patterns to enhance timber production and biodiversity.