Background and aimsLow productivity open lichen (Cladonia spp.) woodlands have been rapidly expanding in the closed-crown feather moss (Pleurozium schreberi (Brid.) Mitt.) boreal forest of eastern Canada. While open-woodland areas are progressing, there is little information on the recoverability of open lichen woodlands back to closed-canopy forests.MethodsAn experimental set-up using moss transplantation was installed on a poor jack pine (Pinus banksiana Lamb.) stand with a lichen ground cover in 2011. Treatments included: 1) lichen cover removed, 2) lichen cover removed and transplantation of a feather moss cover, 3) lichen control, and 4) a natural jack pine site with feather moss cover (moss control). We extracted tree stem increment cores and collected needles and soil samples for nutrient analysis.ResultsThe transplanted-moss treatment can counteract the adverse effects of lichen on jack pine growth. This treatment enhanced foliar nutrition and soil nutrients, especially ammonium (N-NH4+) and nitrate (N-NO3-). With this treatment, the soil conditions (e.g., soil nutrients, soil moisture) and foliar nutrition were closer to that of moss control. Surprisingly, lichen removal treatment did not improve growth and resulted in poorer jack pine growth and harsher soil conditions.ConclusionFeather moss can establish, survive, and remain healthy in an environment previously occupied by lichen. The replacement of lichen by feather moss establishes soil conditions that appear conducive to better tree growth and have the potential of restoring the productivity of boreal forests in open-canopy lichen woodlands. Feather moss, Lichen, Restoration, Recoverability, Jack pine, Boreal forests, YOUNG BLACK SPRUCE, BOREAL FOREST, NITROGEN-FIXATION, ENVIRONMENTAL-FACTORS, GROWTH, STANDS, DISTURBANCES, COMMUNITIES, VEGETATION