Tree spatial patterns and stand attributes in temperate forests: The importance of plot size, sampling design, and null model

Our investigation indicates that 0.25-ha plots are mostly reliable for assessing stand attributes in previously managed forests. However, tree distribution can be very variable both in these and in old-growth stands, therefore spatial patterns cannot be reliably detected with one small plot. Combining several small plots, and using null models accounting for site heterogeneity, are efficient strategies to detect small-scale spatial patterns, but plot larger than 1-ha should still be used to assess large-scale patterns in high-diversity forest stands.