Course Description
The Species Requirements module will focus on biotic and abiotic requirements of various tree species, and specifically species tolerances to adverse conditions. The course will be broken down into 2 classes. These classes will focus on the science behind tree requirements and tolerances such as light, nutrients, salts, soils, and pH (among others) and provide examples of tree species best suited to cope with these various situations.
Weather depending, there will also be a short field component of this class, where students will be tested on which sites would be suitable for specific trees. This class will provide information for all types of planting areas, not just parkways, in order to teach a broader perspective on these tree species. We will discuss the biological, evolutionary, and chemical reasons why certain trees prefer certain conditions, as well as where these conditions are likely to be found in Illinois.
Recommended Reading
Flora of the Chicago Region, Gerould Wilhelm, Laura Rericha, 2017 Manual of Woody Landscape Plants, Michael A. Dirr, 1998
Provided Equipment
None
Day One
During the first session we will review sun and shade adaptations, and the science behind photosynthesis. We will also review adaptations to saturated and dry soils, and where in the built and natural environments one is likely to encounter these conditions. We will also discuss ecology and urban ecology, and the biotic and abiotic factors that make up each. As each of these sections is discussed, we will discuss trees that are uniquely adapted to changing light and soil moisture conditions.
Day Two
During the second session, we will review adaptations to various soil conditions such as nutrient and salt loading, soil pH, and soil texture. We will also discuss some other “wildcard” conditions that are unique to the urban environment, such as airborne pollutants, vandalism, and heavily engineered sites. Once again, along the way, we will discuss specific trees which are suited to these various situations. Weather depending, we will conclude each class with a walk around the local environs to discuss what trees would be appropriate for various sites.
Outcomes
The goal is to educate students on how to make a long-term and fiscally responsible investment in trees by choosing the right tree for the right site and avoiding common pitfalls of planning for tree plantings.
