Poisonous and allergenic plant species in preschool’s and primary school’s yards in the city of Novi Sad

Abstract

Presence of the poisonous and allergenic plant species was observed in 8 primary schools and 6 preschools in Novi Sad, Serbia. The aim of this research was to determine the extent to which pre-school and school-age children are exposed to harmful plant species and also to gain insight does the present landscaping take into account the appropriateness in the use of certain ornamental species in arranging preschool's and school's greenery. In the analyzed locations 22 poisonous plant species were noticed, mainly belonging to genera Thuja, Symphoricarpos, Cotoneaster, Juniperus, Berberis and Taxus, represented with 367 specimens. Along with poisonous, 21 allergenic plant species mainly belonging to genera Acer, Tilia, Betula, Populus, Platanus, Celtis, Aesculus, Thuja, Ulmus, Robinia and Quercus, represented with 675 specimens, were determined. The calculated allergenic index grouped most of the investigated species into strongly allergenic (calculated A.I.=7) due to their prolonged phenantesic period, high abundance and possible cross-reactivity with other species noticed in the greenery. Establishment and enhancement of the collaboration between schools and experts from relevant institutions would result in the removal of the very most allergenic and poisonous landscape plants and ultimately toxic-free and allergy-friendly school yards. Gradual removal might temper the public reluctance to this measurement, but finally only joint efforts and complete abandonment of pointed species can convert unhealthy school yards into ones that are safe and allergy-friendly.