PSS 123 Lecture 7: Habitats

• School: University of Vermont
• Department: Plant & Soil Science
• Course: PSS 123
• Professor: Leonard P.Perry

Document Summary

Ecological plant habitats have plants chosen to fit the site and are sustainable on their own, with minimal input of resources. Types of habitats, some of which overlap: open/sun: Ideal for border and island beds, as well as groundcovers: shade, damp: Tree roots need to be considered because the number will affect the moisture of the soil. Consider the impact of falling leaves in the fall which add nutrients to soil (1) large ones could smother small plants. Refers to soil, not air, and many perennials prefer this. If near a waterway avoid root invasive species that can travel down it: dry: Refers to soil, and plants good for these areas often have thick or waxy leaves, resistance to water loss or deep roots: seashore, meadow, woodland: Characterized by dry, nutrient poor soil, but humidity levels can vary. Must tolerate wind, sun, low fertility and often salt spray. Usually are difficult to establish and maintain due to competition.