The experience of preserving ancient trees in Vienna, Austria

Ancient trees hold considerable aesthetic and ecological value within urban environments. The examination of ancient trees and their overall health and condition is an integral part of a comprehensive assessment aimed at preserving these trees and conserving the natural environment within urban spaces. The purpose of the study was to examine the experience of preserving valuable trees growing in urban space. General scientific theoretical methods – analysis and synthesis – were used to work with lists of tree inventory. Heritage trees grow in all districts in Vienna. It was established that ancient trees were given the status of natural monuments since 1936, the dynamics of bequests were traced, and the decades of Vienna’s most active nature conservation activities were determined. The most famous heritage trees in the city were described. The species diversity of monumental trees was analysed, and their taxonomic affiliation was summarised. The heritage trees in Vienna are represented by 49 genera, most of which belong to the phylum of Magnoliophyta. The most common species among protected trees are Platanus orientalis L., Pinus nigra J.F. Arnold, Aesculus hippocastanum L., Quercus robur L., Taxus baccata L., Tilia platyphyllos Scop. Most of heritage trees (60%) are solitary trees. It was evaluated that the general sanitary condition of protected trees is excellent; almost all trees have high vitality and play a leading role in shaping urban landscapes. Every heritage tree possesses a commendable and elevated aesthetic rating. Analysis of the existing inventory of ancient trees in Vienna, their sanitary condition and aesthetic condition will contribute to the environmental awareness of communities and the improvement of management measures for such trees. The obtained results can be used to share the experience of researchers from different countries regarding preserving ancient trees and forming European databases of heritage trees