Mecsek beech trees declining faster than expected

Beech trees in the Mecsek mountains are declining faster than previously anticipated, according to data from Mecsekerdő Zrt. The phenomenon is particularly evident in a 315-hectare forest block characterized by steep, rocky slopes with south-southwestern exposure.

Monitoring efforts initiated in 2015 show that the combination of frequent droughts, high temperatures, and increased evaporation is placing significant stress on the trees. This water and heat stress weakens the trees, making them more vulnerable to pathogens and pests. While the death of individual old trees is a natural part of forest evolution, experts warn that the current decline is affecting larger numbers of trees and threatening the continuity of the closed canopy.

Although beech is the most affected species, signs of deterioration have also been observed in other tree types. The company continues to monitor these changes through regular measurements of tree circumference and health status across designated sample areas.