A study of chemical characteristics of soil in relation to street trees status in Riga (Latvia)

The chemical composition of soil and appropriate supply of nutrients are very important factors for normal plant growth and development. Lime tree (. Tilia x vulgaris H.), is a popular tree species used for urban landscaping in Europe. However, there is little information on the chemical element concentrations available to and recommended for T. x vulgaris in urban soils. The objectives of this study were: (1) to investigate the amount of nutrients, de-icing salts and heavy metals available for uptake by trees in the city centre on a seasonal scale; and (2) to assess the relationship between the vitality of T. x vulgaris and soil chemistry. The research was carried out in five streets and a park in Riga (Latvia) during 2005-2007. Plant-available concentrations of 17 nutrients and heavy metals were determined via 1. M HCl extraction. Soil Cl content, pH, and electrical conductivity were also measured.The investigation revealed a high heterogeneity in soil chemical composition. In total, the element concentrations in urban soils did not exceed values commonly found in urban environments. Higher concentrations of Na, Cl, Ca, Mg, Zn, Cu, and increased pH, but lower P and B concentrations were found in the street soils in comparison to the park soil. Significantly higher concentrations of Na, Cl, and Mg, and lower concentrations of K, Fe, Cu, and B, as well as unfavourable ratios of several element concentrations were found in the soils where more damaged street trees were growing. In addition, the recommended fertilization regimes are discussed.