The preliminary results of" the research on the transformation dynamics of shrub communities in their initial developmental stage obtained from 15 permanent research plots are presented. Observations were carried out during the years 1997-99. They constitute the first phase of a long-term research aiming at the recognition or the shrub phytocoenoscs' structure. Iloristic composition, and local differentiation in various succcssi ve stages. The analysis showed that a significant increase in the volumes of shrubs was followed by a decrease in the richness or a vegetation patch. Furthermore, the role of both the taxa from the Artcmisietca class ancl, transitionally. of the meadow species becomes more visible. At the same time the plants or xcrothcrmic grasslands and thermophilous saum-communities disappear. Additionally. a significant inllucnce of the surroundings on the course of shrub colonisation was observed.