Abstract
Generally, trees lining the streets are the most easily accessible green areas in the city and constitute the smallest basic unit in the formation of the urban linear green axis. This study attempts to interpret issues related to city trees from a comprehensive and relational viewpoint. The site of this study is Central Park Street in front of Incheon Metropolitan City Hall. This street is representative of those in Incheon City. This study is an inter-relational interpretation of issues by measuring the vitality of these trees. The following are results of this study: First, the vitality of city trees is higher in those trees growing in natural ground than those growing in plant gratings. This observation can lead to budget savings and increased natural areas in the city. Also, if planter and multi-layering planting methods are introduced where damage to trees is predicted, variation to urban landscape can be achieved while linking to reinforced rearing foundation of street-side trees. Second, there is need for a holistic approach to caring for street-side trees regarding the damage caused by drastic pruning and strong street lights. The typical functions of these trees, like supplying freshness in summer, absorbing solar radiation, and controlling the urban micro-climate are closely related to the vitality of the trees. Accordingly, the function and ecology should be understood holistically, not separately. In this aspect, the functional and ecological use of the multi-layering planting method is effective in protecting pedestrians from vehicles as well. Third, the fallen leaves of monotonous rows of trees have different ecological and functional effects. Not only is the index of greenness in the urban setting increased, but there are also aesthetic and symbolic effects. Fourth, in spite of being the street along which Incheon Metropolitan City Hall, major administrative buildings and Central Park are located, this street does not have its own special identity to discriminate it from other streets. It fulfills only functional criteria based on uniformity. If there is no paradigm shift from today's street system based on vehicles, the role of landscape architecture will be very passive in regards to street-side trees, the minimum unit of urban green. Fifth, on this particular street, many trees were planted in December, which reflects a deficiency of short and long-term strategy, like a street-tree master plan. In this aspect, we still lack a mature culture concerning these trees as a basic unit in urban greenery. Furthermore, there needs to be cultural introspection concerning present administrative practices.