Bioecological features of ornamental woody plants in the conditions of the city of Nukus

The climatic characteristics of urban ecosystems, such as high summer temperatures, low rainfall, strong winds, as well as anthropogenic factors such as air and soil pollution, salinization, soil compaction, and limited water supply, pose serious challenges to the survival and development of vegetation. This study, devoted to the bioecological characteristics of ornamental woody plants in Nukus, encompasses a comprehensive examination of the adaptability of various species to the urban environment. The aim of this study is to identify the bioecological characteristics, assess the life status and adaptive strategies of nine species of ornamental woody plants: Fraxinus excelsior L., Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marshall, Salix alba L., Populus alba L., Ulmus pumila L., Juniperus communis L., Salix babylonica L., Maclura pomifera Raf. C.K. Schneid, Catalpa bignonioides Walt. in the city of Nukus. The study used methods of field observations, phenological surveys, morphological descriptions, and soil-ecological studies. Phenological observations showed that most of the studied species adapt to the arid climate of Nukus, shortening the period of active vegetation. The duration of seasonal flowering of the species shows that the flowering duration of the studied species is relatively close to each other. The study showed that the species Ulmus pumila, Populus alba, Fraxinus pennsylvanica, and Maclura pomifera are highly resilient and are the most promising for mass landscaping in this region. Other species require more specific growing conditions and intensive care. Therefore, choosing the right assortment of ornamental woody plants is an important factor in enhancing the resilience and decorative qualities of urban vegetation in Nukus.