Peat, due to its physicochemical properties, is an ideal substrate for forest nursery production. However, its limited availability and the negative environmental impact of its exploitation encourage the search for alternative materials. Currently, substitutes for peat are being intensively studied, including composted green waste, sewage sludge, manure, and agro−industrial residues. In this context, this study aimed to determine the effects of the chemical properties of the KORFF and peat substrates, including pH and electrolytic conductivity (EC), on the growth and nutritional status of seedlings of three important forest tree species: Scots pine, silver birch, and black alder. The results showed a significant relationship between the macroelement content in the substrate and the morphological parameters of the seedlings, especially of their root systems. The high pH of the substrate negatively affected biometric features, whereas a higher EC positively correlated with plant growth, likely due to increased nutrient bioavailability. The individual species’ response to macroelement content varied: alder achieved the best results for the alternative substrate, while pine preferred the standard peat substrate. Birch, on the other hand, was particularly sensitive to deficiencies in nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). The data obtained indicate the need to tailor substrate composition to the specific requirements of each tree species and highlight the complex interaction between soil chemical parameters and nutrient availability. Understanding these relationships may contribute to more effective management of species composition and the stability of future stands.

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