Spruce or not? Contextual and attitudinal drivers behind the choice of tree species in southern Sweden

- Missed opportunities for risk diversification in forest plantations after storms.
- Experiential knowledge and contextual factors favoured continued practices.
- Risk-awareness, aesthetical preferences and curiosity favoured change of practices.
- Naturally regenerated birch emerges as an alternative pathway to higher diversity.

In 2005 and 2007 southern Sweden was hit by severe storms exposing the risks with current forestry focused on Norway spruce (Picea abies). The reforestation after the storms was largely conducted by private forest owners who were offered grants to support regeneration with broadleaves. The previous practices however remained largely intact, with spruce occupying 90% of the planted area. Based on qualitative interviews and applying the practice based approach this study investigates factors and motivations shaping forest owners choice of species. The analysis reveals that continued reforestation with Norway spruce was a result of path-dependencies of practices strongly supported by the species' superior profitability and a high browsing pressure on Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris). Risk awareness, consideration to forest aesthetics and curiosity were the main attitudinal drivers in favour of regeneration with other species than spruce. Our analysis reveals naturally regenerated birch (Betula spp.) as a viable but previously overlooked pathway to increased species diversity.