Main approaches to residential area greening in the Khakassia dry steppe zone

The purpose of the study is to develop basic approaches for the improvement of settlements in the steppe zone of the Republic of Khakassia. Research objectives: to assess the state of the landscaping activities in the capital of the Republic - the city of Abakan; give a list of the main approaches to the improvement of urban areas; provide species of promising woody plants for inclusion in the assortment. The objects of research are new types of woody plants in the landscaping of Abakan. When making an inventory in urban plantings, the overall habit of the plant (height, crown diameter), blooms or bears fruit, damage (frosting, pests, diseases), and the type of planting were assessed. Preliminary long-term studies of introduced species in the arboretum of the Institute of Agrarian Problems of Khakassia allowed us to expand the range of plants used. In recent years, 25 new promising species of trees and shrubs have been introduced. After a 20-year period, their condition was examined. It was found that 18 % do not bloom, 44 % bloom, but do not bear fruit. In 40% of species, damage by pests and diseases, and a decrease in winter hardiness were found. The reasons for the poor condition of plants in the landscaping plantations of the city of Abakan have been identified. Such species as Cotoneaster lucidus Schlecht., Forsythia ovate Nakai., Amygdalus nana L., Prinsepia sinensis (Oliv.) Bean., Sorbaria sorbifolia (L.) A. Br turned out to be resistant. The main approaches to the greening of residential areas in the arid zone of Khakassia are presented. Trees, shrubs and lianas of different groups in terms of vitality and prospects are recommended.