Maples (Acer L.) in the streets of central part of Beograde: Conditions and functionality

Abstract

This research investigated the existing conditions and functionality of rows of maple trees (Acer L.) (which are traditionally used in our country for urban greening) in the streets that are the most frequent in terms of traffic intensity, ways of use and measures to maintain greenery (streets of the I and II order) on the territory of the municipality of Stari grad (Belgrade). In the investigated area a total of 39 streets of these categories were surveyed. Rows of maple trees are represented in 2 out of 15 streets of the I order and in 10 out of 24 streets of the II order. It was determined that the total number of trees belonging to the species of this genus is 735. Maple species recorded are: Acer pseudoplatanus L, Acer platanoides L, Acer campestre L. and Acer saccharinum L. The most represented species here is A. pseudoplatanus with a total of 442 (60.13%) trees, and an average vitality score of 3.6. They are followed by: A. platanoides with 213 (28.98%) recorded trees and an average vitality score of 3.5, A. campestre with 72 (9.80%) recorded trees and a rating of 3.1 and A. saccharinum with 8 (1.09%) trees and a rating of 2.3. One of the main factors in reducing the functionality of maple tree street rows in the study area was the application of the tree topping care measure.