Predicting tree preferences from visible tree characteristics

Abstract

This paper presents a psychological perspective to the selection of trees for urban residential areas. Sixty tree species suitable for urban planting sites were rated by lay participants regarding preference. We then used outward tree features to predict the preference ratings. Twenty-five different plant characteristics served as possible predictors in a regression model for tree preference. We found that the distinction between conifers and deciduous trees, the maximum tree height, and the crown height-to-width ratio were valuable predictors for preference, explaining more than 70% of the variance. This adds support for evolutionary theories of landscape preference. The regression model presented in this paper can be applied to calculate a preference estimate for other tree species using their known physical data, which may facilitate tree selection tasks in green space planning. By specifying preference-relevant tree characteristics, our findings may also inform the process of selecting diverse species for sites where a homogenous overall appearance is a planning goal.

Qualitative Exploration of Perception and Use of Cultural Ecosystem Services from Tree-Based Urban Green Space in the City of Zagreb (Croatia)

“…Studies show that presence of trees and water in landscape increases aesthetic preferences [57]. Plane trees and deciduous trees in general are among those most preferred [21]. Additionally, under the preferred experiences our participants reported contrasting and surprising elements, color dynamics (including seasonal changes), greenness and presence of colors other than green.…”

“…Trees have symbolic meanings to humans [56]. Studies on human preferences for tree characteristics show that tall, wide and deciduous trees are most preferred [21]. Our participants explained naturalness as presence of "true" forest, well preserved, with perceived biodiversity.…”

“…Some studies focus on perception of specific elements of UGS design, for instance openness [16] or naturalness [18]. Other address certain traits of trees, such as preference for colors, size, age, broadleaves or conifers, crown tree elements [19][20][21][22].…”

A Novel Anti-Environmental Forest Experience Scale to Predict Preferred Pleasantness Associated with Forest Environments

“…The AEFES questionnaires are not the only tool to predict the expected benefits that contact with nature may bring to its participants. Subjects with acute depressive symptoms preferred dark and dense forest landscapes [ 56 ]; experts and laypeople might have different perceptions of tree features [ 10 ]. In addition, individual preferences were important in the mental and physical reactions of the respondents to the forest environment [ 9 ].…”

Effect of Short-term Forest Bathing in Urban Parks on Perceived Anxiety of Young-adults: A Pilot Study in Guiyang, Southwest China

“…which strengthened the sufficiency of forest bathing effect by impressive memories at exit. Recent study revealed that the perceived preference to tree diversity may depend on the cognitive difference between expert and laypeople (Hofmann et al, 2017). Forest experts may prefer specie-rich and natural landscape because they are aware of the importance of biodiversity.…”