Beech and hornbeam dominate oak 20 years after the creation of storm-induced gaps

•We studied natural regeneration of beech, oak, and hornbeam 20 years after storm disturbance.•Overall, beech and hornbeam dominate oak, mainly in rich-nutrient soils.•Oak had a lower density but higher stem diameter and height than beech and hornbeam.•Distance to gap edge increased sapling diameter and height and reduced density.•If no control operations are performed, beech and hornbeam will outcompete oak.