Research finds young trees naturally adapt to drier conditions
By Ashmeeta Subra 9 April 2025
A decade-long study has revealed how trees respond to water scarcity, offering hope for forest management and conservation efforts in a warming climate.
The study began in Switzerland’s Pfynwald forest in the Rhône Valley way back in 2003, and it has now uncovered a positive discovery about forest adaptation. Researchers found that young trees growing in naturally drier conditions developed greater drought resistance compared to older trees accustomed to abundant water.
Researchers began the study by watering century-old Scots pine trees an additional 60 centimetres of water each year (twice their normal rainfall). A decade later, they stopped watering half of the well-hydrated trees, creating three distinct groups: trees that continued to receive extra water, trees deprived of extra water and naturally drought-resistant trees that relied solely on rainfall.
The experiment found that trees previously watered abundantly developed smaller leaves with cells focused on water storage and insect resistance, rather than photosynthesis. The previously irrigated trees exhibited a “memory effect,” where their cellular structure and behaviour continued to reflect past abundance even years after extra water was cut off.
Overall, the study provided valuable insights into how trees respond to water scarcity, going beyond simple survival mechanisms. Recent studies in Mediterranean regions have further proven that trees develop various coping mechanisms for water scarcity, including deeper root systems, modified leaf structures and more efficient water use.
With global climate models predicting an increase in the frequency and severity of droughts in many regions, the development and protection of forests are becoming more critical than ever. It offers hope for cultivating a new generation of drought-resistant trees, helping them naturally adapt to ensure the survival of forest ecosystems in the future.
Australia, renowned for its unique ecosystems and diverse forests, is home to countless plant and animal species that are vulnerable to the effects of climate change and need protection. National Tree Day brings communities together to plant trees that support key wildlife and habitats while creating an ecosystem capable of thriving in a future shaped by climate change.
Volunteer to plant trees at a site near you this July 27 and contribute to building a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.
With background in international relations and marketing communications, Ashmeeta is excited to use her skills to encourage positive environmental actions through Planet Ark. She believes that by taking small actions, we can help make a big difference and be good stewards of our planet. She also loves spending time in nature and being at the beach.
