POPULUS ALBA: A KEY SPECIES IN THE AGROFORESTRY SYSTEM ESTABLISHED IN CÂRCEA, DOLJ COUNTY

Agroforestry systems play a vital role in mitigating climate change impacts, especially in vulnerable regions like southeastern Romania, where drought significantly challenges young forest stands.In 2023, twenty 24m x 24m plots were established in HortiNova Nursery, located in Crcea, near Craiova, Dolj County, combining forest species and agricultural crops.In two of these plots the combination between white poplar (Populus alba L.) and strawberry was introduced.This study aimed to assess the survival rate of the planted white poplar seedlings and their growth in heigh and collar diameter in the first year after planting.Additionally, climatic data (temperature, relative humidity, and precipitation) were collected using six HoBo sensors (Onset Computer Corporation) and one iMETOS 3.3 data logger.Soil analyses were conducted by the Dolj Office of Pedological and Agrochemical Studies.Out of the 144 white poplar seedlings, only 3 failed to survive, resulting in a survival rate of 97.9%.The shortest young tree measured 1.42 m, whereas the tallest one reached 3.34 m.The smallest collar diameter was 0.72 cm, while the largest was 6.12 cm.These findings indicate that the young white poplar trees exhibited strong growth and adaptability, contributing to their success in an environment with poor soil quality and minimal rainfall.In the face of rising temperatures and decreasing rainfall, white poplar remains a viable option for establishing both traditional forestry cultures and innovative agroforestry systems, especially in regions with poor forest land, such as Dolj County.