ABSTRACT
This chapter approaches the research question from the perspective of an urban-tree constraint typology. Trees in old towns, town centres, compact and densifying urban areas are vulnerable to varied abiotic and biotic stress syndromes. They impose acute and chronic constraints on tree growth to depress tree performance, raise tree mortality, and increase tree management burden. In planting-site design, sufficient soil volume should be accompanied by high-quality soil. Poor site soil can be ameliorated with amendments and treatments. The soil surface can receive treatments to improve conditions for tree growth. The treatments can prevent compaction by pedestrian traffic, soil erosion by wind or running water and dust problems, and avoid rubbish accumulation. For localized surface treatment around the tree pit, an iron grate can cover the pit and the soil surface can be filled with pea or graded gravel to facilitate infiltration and aeration.
