«Minskzelenstroi» explained why ash trees were removed and linden trees were planted on Nezavisimosti Avenue
At the end of July, 150 linden trees were planted in special cube containers on Nezavisimosti Avenue in Minsk. This decision sparked discussion in the Belarusian segment of Threads, as ash trees previously grew in this area, writes the "Minsk-Novosti" agency.
As explained by Aleksandr Yermalovich, General Director of "Minskzelenstroi", common ash trees were planted here about four years ago. This tree species is well-suited for urban thoroughfares because it awakens a week to a week and a half later in spring than many other plants. This allows for timely necessary work – watering the trees, washing them, and treating them for pests. With proper care, ash also tolerates soil salinization caused by anti-icing reagents quite well.
However, it was specifically on Nezavisimosti Avenue that the trees found themselves in particularly difficult conditions. Underground engineering communications for the metro run beneath, leaving virtually no sufficient space for the root system. The trees grow in a very limited volume of soil.
Furthermore, in winter, anti-icing reagents get into the planting pits and penetrate the soil, after which they are absorbed by the roots. Intensive car traffic also creates an additional load. As a result, the combination of limited space, soil salinization, and traffic exposure was too harsh for the previous plantings.
Despite regular care, fertilization, and treatment of the trees, the ash trees could not be saved. Therefore, specialists decided to use a different approach and turned to the experience of Russian cities, where trees along major roads are planted in special double-walled cube containers.
Such containers are insulated, which should protect the root system from freezing. "Minskzelenstroi" already has experience using similar containers for woody plants and claims that with proper care, the plants in them feel quite good.
Linden trees were chosen for Nezavisimosti Avenue. These trees tolerate formative pruning well, so after a few seasons, they are planned to be shaped to create a beautiful alley.
According to the experience of neighboring countries, linden trees in such containers can grow for about ten years. After that, the trees are planned to be replanted along with their root ball into open ground, where they can continue to grow.
Comments
Я не абараняю рашэнне з кантэйнерамі, а думаю пра прычыны дэградацыі дрэў на праспекце ў апошнія дзесяцігоддзі.