Expert tip: Future trees

Tree plantings in urban locations often mean stress for the trees. Small tree pits, insufficient development opportunities (both underground and above ground), drought stress, pollutant emissions, and consequently frequent pest infestations are just some of the factors that make life difficult for a tree in the city. The consequences of climate change, such as prolonged hot dry periods and uneven rainfall distribution, intensify these issues. These challenging conditions now present nurseries with the task of providing trees that are particularly suited to these extremes. Urban greening remains an important measure for improving the cityscape and urban climate.

Therefore, in this article, we would like to introduce some trees that have proven themselves in both research and practice in urban environments.

• Acer campestre, Field Maple** – is resistant to compacted soils and drought, but it can also withstand flooding. With a relatively small growth habit, it is also well-suited as a hedge plant.

• Alnus spaethii, Purple Alder** – fast-growing, reaching up to 15 meters in height. It has a loose, broad-pyramidal crown with dark green leaves.
• Gleditsia triacanthos, Honey Locust** – grows to 15-20 meters within the first ten years. Its delicate foliage and white flowers are very ornamental, and the flowers are also popular with insects.
• Liquidambar styraciflua, Sweetgum** – a large tree with impressive growth, reaching up to 20 meters in height and 4 meters in width. Its distinctive feature is the star-shaped leaves, which turn bright red in the fall.

Shown in the picture: Planting of a Sweetgum tree in Marienplatz, Dingolfing.

• Magnolia kobus, Kobus Magnolia** – unlike traditional magnolias, this one grows with a straight, continuous trunk. It can reach a height of 20 meters and has beautiful large white flowers.

• Quercus cerris, Turkey Oak** – with a spreading crown, it can reach a size of 20-25 meters. It is very resilient against pests and harmful fungi, and also boasts a beautiful autumn coloration.

• Ulmus Resista©, Resista©-Ulme** – The various varieties of Resista© Ulm trees show high resistance to Dutch elm disease. Due to their robustness and slender growth, they are very popular urban trees.
• On the picture:** Variety 'New Horizon' in the 'Schwabinger Tor' district in Munich.

This is just a small selection of relevant urban trees. We would be happy to provide you with more alternatives.