Influence of the spatial variability of soil type and tree colonization on the dynamics of Molinia caerulea (L.) Moench in managed heathland

► Explore the factors responsible for the expansion of grass in managed heathland. ► There is a correlation between the expansion of grass with thinness of the E horizon. ► There is a correlation between the expansion of grass with colonization by birch. ► A new method of management must be introduced to maintain heathlands. ►