PROSPECTIVE SPECIES AND FORMS OF CONIFEROUS EXOTOES FOR LANDSCAPING IN POPULATIONS IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORIES OF THE IRKUTSK REGION
The article discusses the issues of expanding the species range of green spaces in settlements in the northern territories of the Irkutsk region through the introduction of new species, forms and cultivars of coniferous introduced species (for example, the northern capital of the region - the city of Bratsk). The existing problems of introducing introduced trees and shrubs into the culture are analyzed. The article presents the results of long-term introduction tests of coniferous foreign species growing in the city of Bratsk (studies have been carried out since 2008 to the present). Estimates of frost resistance, drought resistance, smoke and gas resistance of conifers are given. Information on the annual growth of plants, morphometric indicators of exotic species and the degree of adaptation in the natural and climatic conditions of Bratsk and its environs are given. To determine the prospects for the use of coniferous introduced species in the landscaping of settlements, a comprehensive assessment of the success of the introduction was carried out according to the methodology of the Main Botanical Garden, using the following criteria: the degree of ripeness of the shoots, winter hardiness, preservation of habitus, shoot formation, the regularity of shoot growth, the ability for generative development and the methods of reproduction that characterize the state and the prospects for growing plants in an urban setting. Recommendations are given on the use of coniferous trees and shrubs in urban landscaping to increase the sustainability, durability of green spaces, as well as improve the aesthetic properties of urban plantings and enrich the visual environment. In total, the article describes 27 species, subspecies and decorative forms of coniferous exotic plants, which have successfully adapted to the natural and climatic conditions of the northern regions of the Irkutsk region. These species and cultivars can be recommended for use in various forms of urban landscaping and private gardening in summer cottages and household plots.