Dynamics of changes in the width of annual rings as a measure of tree viability in the afforestation of parks and urban green areas

Abstract

The viability of trees is described in this study as the dynamic capability of their growth and reproduction within the limits of energy. Viability was assessed using the following four-stage visual methods: VTA , Roloff, bioindication. The results obtained by these methods were compared with the data obtained in the original method of analysis of changes in the dynamics of the width of annual rings. The qualification of tree assessment, was based on the value of the function using linear regression. Depending on the value of the regression coefficient, four vitality classes were distinguished. A comparison of the results of the viability assessment obtained by different methods was performed using cluster analysis. The research was conducted on 32 trees in the historical park in Balice. On the basis of the increment sequences obtained, the parameters of the linear trend lines were approximated. The study demonstrated the similarity of the vitality assessments performed by the incremental, Roloff and bioindication methods. The visual methods for viability assessment which reflect the changes in the structure of crown boundaries are sufficiently accurate in estimating the level of tree viability.