Ecological Strategies of Ornamental Invasive Tree and Shrub Species in Chernihiv’s Green Infrastructure

Abstract

This study examined the ecological strategies of invasive tree and shrub species in the forests and forest parks of the city of Chernihiv in Ukraine through analysis of their adaptation and sustainability indicators. Natural and semi-natural forests and forest parks of Chernihiv form the green infrastructure of an average-sized Eastern European city in the continental biogeographic region. In total, 93 ornamental species of trees and shrubs are present in forests and forest parks of Chernihiv, 17 of which are classified as invasive, and most introduced in the second half of the 20th century. Sustainable approaches are needed to control the spread of alien plant species.