Reaction of lime trees (Tilia sp.) growing along the Żwirki i Wigury Street in Warsaw on soil salinity caused by chemical technology of snow removal

Abstract

The studies were focused on the influence of sodium chloride application in the chemical technology of snow removal from streets on the conditions of lime trees (Tilia sp.) growing along the Żwirki i Wigury Street in Warsaw and the determination of the degree of salinity on soils under street vegetation. The analyses show that chemical technology of soil removal causes changes in the soil environment. They include ionic imbalance of the soil solution and change of soil reaction. Electrical conductivity of the saturated soil extract also increases, as well as content of soluble salts in soils under street vegetation. Sodium chloride significantly influences the lime trees growing along the Żwirki i Wigury Street. Leaves growing directly near the street show severe effects of paralysis by sodium chloride in form of necrosis, discoloration (browning), and in consequence drying and premature leaf-fall.