Root-induced tree species effects on the source/sink strength for greenhouse gases (CH4, N2O and CO2) of a temperate deciduous forest soil

► Beech and ash saplings affected greenhouse gases in different species-specific ways. ► Ash enhanced the CH4 uptake and reduced N2O emissions through root-related effects. ► Beech roots did not alter CH4 and N2O fluxes compared to root-free soil. ► The calculated root respiration of ash roots was higher than that of beech roots. ► Beech roots appeared to stimulate the rhizosphere respiration more than ash roots.