Four method of cellulose decomposition measurement: filter-paper filled litter bag, cotton filled micro containers, tension strength of cotton strip, and pressure strength of cellophane film were compared in laboratory using the soil from four sites reclaimed after brown coal mining by planting alder 4, 20, 22 and 32 years ago, and from one semi-natural alder forest in the vicinity of the post-mining sites. Additionally, microbial respiration with and without cellulose addition was measured. Except for cellophane film, all methods gave similar results. A rapid increase in cellulose decomposition rate was observed in initial stages of soil development during first 20 years after the alder trees were planted. Lower cellulose decomposition rate was found in older plantations and in the control semi-natural forest. Microbial soil respiration showed the same pattern as cellulose decomposition activity and peaked in 20 years old reclamation. However, older sites displayed a higher relative increase in respiration when cellulose was added, no such increase was observed in younger sites.