Variation in tree diameter growth in response to the weather conditions and tree size in deciduous broad-leaved trees

The diameter growth of trees may vary depending on the tree size, species and other tree-related factors. However, such variation is challenging to consider while estimating the growth response to weather conditions. This study investigated the effects of the weather conditions and variations in tree factors on diameter growth in a mature forest. In particular, we focused on diameter growth in June, the month of active diameter growth. We recorded the monthly diameter growth of 6 tree species for 7 years and constructed a generalized linear mixed model in which the mean growth was dependant on tree size, weather conditions, and the interaction between tree size and weather.The estimated growth responses to weather factors were different among species, but their interaction to tree size was unclear in all species. Sensitivity analysis of growth rate to weather conditions, such as temperature and precipitation, showed that the sensitivity to weather depended both on tree size and tree species.