Line transect surveys of cut-over sites in the Pudozh district and long-term monitoring of permanent sample plots in the Kondopoga district have demonstrated high spatial and temporal variability of plant communities developing in clear-cut areas. The leading factors influencing the plant community formation in cut-over sites are the topography and soil conditions, structure of the preceding stand and the anthropogenic factor. All taken together they shape the complex mosaic of the plant cover. Analysis of the development of communities in smallreed clear-cuttings revealed 3 succession stages differing in the degree and scope of tree species regeneration. The currently used classification of cut-over sites in Karelia developed by Ronkonen following Melekhov's technique needs to be fine-tuned and completed.