Abstract:

In China, urban forest is regarded as primary elements to improve urban environment by scholars, government and the public in the programs of urban beautification and eco-city development. This paper reviewed the researches on urban forest, finding few Chinese references on characteristics and management of urban tree population; sampling surveyed the urban trees in Nanjing, revealing that the tree species composition was dominated by a few of species, tree size was relatively small and tree performance was fair due to impacts of urban stresses to tree growth; diagnosed urban tree management system of Nanjing, pointing out that the unclear authorities and responsibilities of administrative agencies, obsolete knowledge of managers and impractical ordinances were critical problems lessening management efficiency; and presented that comprehensive urban tree planting plan and tree management information system were crucial elements for a modern tree management system with references of experiences of western countries.

Key words: Urban forest, Tree survey, Tree management, Nanjing