Appraisal of Key Abiotic Parameters Affecting Street Tree Growth    (View PDF)

Pierre Jutras, Shiv O. Prasher, and Guy R. Mehuys

Abstract: Street trees must cope with severe environmental conditions. Identification of factors that modulate their survival and growth is a key process for successful management. To estimate these factors, contingency analyses were carried out using abiotic data collected locally for Norway maple (Acer platanoides L.), silver maple (Acer saccharinum L.), hackberry (Celtis occidentalis L.), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh.), honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos L.), littleleaf linden (Tilia cordata Mill.), and Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila L.) trees. Also, comparable analyses were performed on a merged all-species data set. Whereas sharp differential growth was found between commercial zones and residential areas, studied species demonstrated ecological tolerance as individuals were found normally or vigorously growing in severe conditions. In this situation, ample irradiation intensity might be an important factor contributing to urban tree growth. Statistical analyses led to the identification of a threshold level (80% of total potential irradiation) above which optimal growth was found in commercial zones. Research results also brought out the importance of the underlying surficial deposits: slow growth rates were linked to the presence of sand/gravel deposits. Finally, higher soil de-icing salt concentrations were found in tree pits where trees were transplanted closer to the curb and on wider streets.

Keywords: Compaction; Contingency Analysis; De-icing Salt Effect; Light Irradiation; Street Trees; Surficial Deposit; Urban Zone Type.

https://doi.org/10.48044/jauf.2010.001