Climate-Change Effects and Bud Phenology in Trees: Insights from Studies in Model Genus Populus

The continuous change in global climate exerts a significant influence on ecosystems globally. It is crucial to understand how tree species respond to these changes and adapt to evolved environmental conditions. The genus Populus includes various temperate tree species; hence, it is valuable for studying the bud phenology of this genus in response to climate change. The bud-burst and bud-set are critical phenomena that control the growing season’s duration and protect from frost damage in temperate trees and shrubs. The timing of bud-burst and bud-set varies within and among the species, and it is considered to be influenced by temperature. Thus, the timing of bud emergence in temperate forests is vital for monitoring the impacts of climate change. The chapter reviews recent developments in understanding how climate change influences bud phenology and underlying genetic and physiological processes. Furthermore, it explores the ecological outcomes of altered bud phenology, mainly focusing on the local ecosystem, species composition, and biodiversity.