Climate change impacts are more likely to be observed in seedlings and early growth than in mature trees. Temperature and moisture requirements for seed dormancy and germination are often much more critical than habitat requirements of an adult tree. Predicted changes in temperature, precipitation, growing season onset, and soil moisture may alter the duration or manifestation of germination conditions, and individual species will be uniquely affected. For species with high dispersal capabilities, these changes may result in redistribution on the landscape as seeds germinate only where conditions are met. Other species may fail to regenerate under altered future conditions, or may germinate without having optimal conditions for development. After establishment, saplings are still more sensitive than mature trees to disturbances such as drought, heat stress, fire, flooding, and herbivory. Changes in tree regeneration and recruitment will have long-term effects on forest composition and structure.