We are excited to share the publication of three innovative articles that showcase our team’s cutting-edge research. Häusler et al. (2025) explore how managing light and nutrients can restore plant diversity in temperate woodlands, offering promising strategies for habitat recovery. Eusebio and Douda (2025) take a deep dive into ancient forests, using mid-Pliocene insights to predict future climate impacts, while Havrdová et al. (2025) reveal the challenges posed by an introduced pathogen and environmental change through a study of declining herbaceous species richness in wetland forests. Together, these studies underscore our commitment to advancing ecological understanding and developing sustainable conservation practices.