Trees & Vegetation

The scarcity of resources and the complexity of urban environments present unique challenges to plant growth. The interplay of limited soil and water, coupled with intricate wind and turbulence patterns influenced by surrounding structures, affects vegetation in a variety of ways. While sheltered areas near buildings offer favorable conditions, other areas face increased turbulence and high winds that shape trees differently. A deep understanding of these conditions is essential for sustainable landscape architecture, especially when considering urban change.

ENVI-met’s advanced simulation and modeling capabilities provide valuable insight into the complex wind patterns and their influence on urban vegetation. This enables landscape architects and urban planners to make informed decisions about the selection and placement of vegetation in urban areas. By leveraging ENVI-met’s expertise, urban green spaces can be thoughtfully designed and managed to ensure optimal vegetation health and longevity while promoting sustainable and resilient urban environments.

In urban climatology, one of the key benefits of incorporating green solutions is the cooling effect of vegetation. Beyond the shade it provides during the day, vegetation cools the air through transpiration, where leaves cool and transfer the coolness to the surrounding air. However, it is important to maintain a leaf temperature lower than the air temperature to ensure effective cooling, as excessive leaf temperatures can cause damage to leaf tissue.

Urban design goes beyond sustainable buildings to include creating optimal growing and living conditions for trees. High and unusual wind conditions pose risks to urban trees, potentially causing damage and safety hazards. ENVI-met’s TreePass analysis provides detailed information on wind and turbulence conditions at specific tree locations, along with calculations of mechanical forces. This enables the identification of potential damage points and provides guidance on tree design for optimal safety and growth.

Trees, whether in forests or urban environments, are often arranged in groups and rows where their collective arrangement affects wind conditions and access to light. Trees sheltered by other trees or buildings tend to be less stable and have a more fragile geometry than those in the front rows exposed to the full force of the wind. Changes in arrangement, such as removal of trees or changes in wind patterns due to new construction, can have significant effects.

The TreePass feature will provide a comprehensive analysis of microclimate conditions for optimal tree growth and sustainability. By considering factors such as wind patterns, light availability, and mechanical forces exerted on trees, the TreePass will provide valuable insights for landscape architects, urban planners, and tree managers. With this information, informed decisions can be made regarding tree selection, placement, and management strategies to promote the health, stability, and longevity of urban green spaces.