Abstract: As an integrated part of the research on “The Structure and Dynamics of Korean Pine Forest”, 325 plots were set, treated, sown and periodically observed from 1963 to 1965 in Korean pine forests in the Lesser Khingan Mountains (Xiaoxinganling) to study the effect of removing litter layer or living ground cover on seed germination and seedling survival of aspen, birch, spruce, larch and linden. Significantly negative effect of litter layer was found on seed germination and seedling survival in all species except linden. Some birch seeds were inhibited from germinating but remained alive for 2--3 years. The adaptability of seeds to germinate and survive on litter layer was found to be positively correlated to the seed size. The relation between adaptability of seeds to germinate and survive on litter layer and shade tolerance of seedlings is also discussed.