Short-term vegetation changes in tropical urban parks: Patterns and design-management implications

Abstract

Singaporean parks are generally planted and managed, but their contribution to urban diversity may alter over time. This study examined the key growth patterns of managed vegetation and factors influencing floral diversity through short-term observation of vegetation changes in a typical tropical urban park setting. The study selected 222 plots using a 10m × 10m grid in three Singaporean parks and surveyed their species richness and spatial distribution. It studied factors affecting vegetation flourishing or decline using multiple on-site mappings and interviews with managers in 2018 and comparison of these findings with vegetation as it had been planted in 2012 or 2015. The study found that diversity in species and structure and vegetation area consistently increased over time despite regular maintenance. Initially planted vegetation, geographical characteristics, and diverse maintenance activities all played an essential role in shaping the parks’ microhabitats, affecting the emergence and growth of plant species. We argue that the role of spontaneous vegetation is critical in the tropical park context, as it contributes to landscape heterogeneity without intensive maintenance. At the same time, however, not all spontaneous vegetation contributes to floral diversity. The findings may help landscape designers and managers understand the opportunities and challenges of tropical planting which can contribute to the long-term biodiversity of an urban ecosystem.