In Kharkiv, specialists from the state forest protection enterprise have begun researching local parks and squares to determine the causes of tree die-off and provide recommendations to municipal services for treatment and rehabilitation of plantings.
As reported by "Dumka", the head of the bio-laboratory of the State Specialized Forest Protection Enterprise, Olena Nazarenko, commented on this to journalists.
According to her, specialists examined plantings in Youth Park in Kharkiv on June 25, taking soil samples and biomaterial from weakened or diseased plants. "We will collect samples of affected branches, leaves or other plant parts. We'll place them in paper bags and transport them to laboratories for further research. The goal is to identify disease pathogens. After laboratory analysis, we'll provide recommendations for plant protection," said Nazarenko.
She believes trees in Kharkiv may be suffering from climate change and insufficient care. Specialists collected samples from linden, chestnut, oak, maple and ash trees.
Meanwhile, forest pathologist Iryna Ridkokasha reported that overall, the condition of plants in Kharkiv is satisfactory. However, some trees show signs of damage. In laboratory conditions, experts identify pests or diseases, determine treatment methods, and provide care recommendations to local utilities.
"Conditions appear worse in areas with monocultures. For example, pine monocultures show more damage, which may be because monocultures are more vulnerable to stem pests and diseases. Mixed plantings with both coniferous and deciduous species show better plant immunity. The condition in Sosnova Horka and Hryhorivskyi Bor is less satisfactory," said Ridkokasha.
Andriy Kravchenko, spokesperson for "Kharkivzelenbud", noted that such inspections of city parks are conducted annually to maintain current information about green spaces. He mentioned situations requiring quick response, like aphid outbreaks or other pest appearances.
"We have positive experience from previous years when specialists conducted research, analyzed leaves, soil and insects. Based on their findings, they provided recommendations for pest control," said Kravchenko.
He added that all parks and squares are being inspected, even in remote districts of Kharkiv.