Buskar för barns utemiljö : kriterier för fungerande växtval

Sammanfattning: The titel of this thesis is “Shrubs for childrens enviroment – Criterion of functional selection of plants”. The main purpose of this thesis is to show what aspects directs the designer, which lignoses that are suitable for childrens enviroments, and which are mainly used. The growingconditions vary in different enviroments, and depend for example on percipitation, soil, temperature, wind and light. The choise of plants must therfore suit the plantproperty, and also the function of the plantation and the future management. I have intervjued 37 people that work in different municipality or companys in south Sweden. The persons has worked as designers, with management or in plantnurserys. The intervjues show that establishment of plants in childrens enviroments is difficult because they are highly exposed to abrasion and trampling. There are many aspects to consider when establishment on schoolyards and playgrounds, and my examination show these aspects: • Abrasion, the plants must stand violation and soil compaction. • Plant establishment, the plants should be easy to establish. • Management, the plantations must be easy to manage. • Shrubs that are poisonous or could have allergic effects should be used in small proportions and in special places. Shrubs that are very poisonous should be avoided. • Shrubs with berries could be used. Aronia melanocarpa have berries that can make the place look dirty. • Shrubs with thorns or spines sould be used in small proportions and in special places. • Aesthetical aspects, the plants should vary in species to be attractive all year, and to avoid diseases or attacks from noxius animals. • The shrubs final size should be considerd during the planning to avoid considerable management and radical pruning. According to the people in the examination Amelanchier, Syringa vulgaris, Spirea betulifolia, Ribes alpinum, Cornus and different species of Salix were the most commonly used shrubs for childrens enviroment. The examination also shows that Salix is most recommended by designers.