Downy Oak

We acquired the Yzeures-sur-Creuse forest in June 2023, which comprises several scattered plots of land in the southern part of the Indre-et-Loire region in central France. The plots on the plateau rest on heavy clay soils, which become waterlogged in winter and dry out in summer. However, the plots on the slopes have better drainage and lighter soils, often containing gravel, sand, or silt. Some areas are heathland, consisting of previously clear-cut sections and old, abandoned farmland. Various wild plants, including ferns, broom, and heather, have naturally grown in these areas.
A section of the forest has been clear-cut by previous owners. In the areas with simple Oak coppices, scattered Maritime Pines were harvested at the same time as the mature forest sections. The Maritime Pine forest was planted on former farmland about thirty years ago and is showing strong growth. The first thinning of the pines took place alongside the harvesting of the mature forest plots.
Our goal is to guide the forest towards a more diverse structure gradually. This will involve moderate cutting, replanting where necessary (in clear-cut areas), and enrichment planting. We will also support natural regeneration of the forest.