The composition and state of native and introduced woody species in the zone of railway transport influence in the Kola Polar region

Abstract

The paper analyzes the state and the diversity of native and introduced woody plants used in landscaping railway stations in 5 cities of the Kola Polar region. The species composition is represented by 22 species, 16 genera, and 9 families. Sorbus gorodkovii (39%) is the most common among trees, Rosa rugosa (44%) is the most common among shrubs. The authors have observed two rare introduced woody species (Larix sibirica Ledeb., Syringa josikaea Jacq. fil.) included in Red Data Books of various ranks. 6 categories of plant state have been identified. Betula pubescens has the largest share of healthy plants among indigenous trees species, Malus baccata and Larix sibirica among introduced species, Rosa pimpinellifolia, Caragana arborescens, Crataegus sanguinea among shrubs in the station territories. Sorbus gorodkovii and Padus avium are in a critical state. The agrochemical soil study showed a low availability of nitrogen compounds and a high content of phosphorus and potassium exchange forms. It has been revealed that the main weakening causes are old age of plants, violation of maintenance technology, and failure to comply with environmental conditions.