Unveiling the Arboreal Responses to Edaphic Factors in Urban Forest Ecosystems

The rise of urbanization in recent years has brought about significant challenges for global urban landscapes, particularly in terms of environmental and climate-related issues. Habitat fragmentation caused by urbanization has resulted in a decline in biodiversity. One effective way to address these challenges is by strategically enhancing the green tree cover in urban areas. Urban trees are vital as nature-based solutions (NbS) to combat climate change and various types of pollution in urban areas and provide multiple ecosystem services. Additionally, they help mitigate the urban heat island effect, minimize the risk of flooding and water pollution, replenish groundwater resources, and contribute to carbon sequestration. This chapter systematically explores how urban trees adapt to the altered structure and composition of urban soil and environment. It was found that the true potential of urban trees is severely hindered by soil compaction, pollution, heavy metal accumulation, and lack of essential nutrients. In order to sustain the growth and health of urban forest ecosystems, the study elaborates on the significance of comprehending urban nutrient cycles and plant-tree interactions. The unique morpho-physiological responses and the symbiotic associations with soil micro-biome exhibited by the roots are discussed in this chapter to highlight the exquisite adaptive capability of urban trees. This chapter contemplates bridging the research gap by focusing on the responses of urban trees to the prevailing edaphic factors to revitalize and maintain healthy urban tree-soil relationships. The chapter's findings will undoubtedly contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11, which calls for creating inclusive, resilient, safe, and sustainable cities and human settlements, along with significantly committing to attaining many other SDGs, such as 6, 7, 12, 13, and 15. Subsequently, the chapter will also help forestry professionals and environmental planners implement the appropriate and holistic management practices to create more resilient and sustainable urban forests that are better adapted to the constraints of the cityscapes.