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Article

Comprehensive proposals for greening and urban regeneration in Zhytomyr based on a selection of perennial plants

Vira Moroz Anatolii Vyshnevskyi
Abstract

The rapid development of urban construction in Zhytomyr is leading to a reduction in green space below the standard level and an intensification of the urban heat island effect, which raises the air temperature in summer by 2-4°C. This has necessitated the implementation of environmentally sustainable solutions aimed at regulating the microclimate, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the urban environment and ensuring the social well-being of residents. The aim of the study was to develop comprehensive proposals for landscape greening and the improvement of urban areas in Zhytomyr in a landscape style based on a range of perennial ornamental plants. This ensured biodiversity, continuous seasonal ornamental appeal and the functional zoning of urban space. Plants were classified according to height, light requirements, moisture requirements and ornamental characteristics. Based on an analysis of sunlight exposure in typical urban areas, a zoning scheme was developed: 60% sunny areas, 30% semi-shaded areas, and 10% riparian zones along water bodies. Planting density ranged from 4 plants/m² for large species to 9 plants/m² for low-growing groundcovers, ensuring that the plantings would close out within 1-2 years. The selection included frost-hardy, drought-tolerant and low-maintenance plant species – ornamental grasses (Pennisetum, Festuca), perennial herbaceous plants (Echinacea, Salvia, Hemerocallis, Sedum), evergreens (Yucca, Lavandula) and ornamental foliage plants (Hosta), none of which had invasive properties. In addition, nine types of greening compositions were proposed: borders (50-70 m in length), mixed borders (100-150 m²), flower beds (10-20 m²), alpine rock gardens (15-20 m²), container plantings, greening around water features (20-30 m²), ornamental groups with solitary elements (5-10 m²), group plantings (10-15 m²) and flower beds (0.5-1.0 m wide). All options ensured continuous seasonal ornamental appeal from May to October, with a greening level of 40% to 70%, which exceeded the minimum regulatory requirements, and required mulching and watering during dry periods. The practical value of this work lies in the ready-to-implement projects with detailed plant placement plans and the potential for adaptation to other cities in Ukraine with similar climatic conditions

Keywords

landscape style; composition options; landscape design; urban greening; biodiversity; seasonal ornamental value; environmental sustainability

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Received 03.11.2025, Revised 04.02.2026, Accepted 24.02.2026 Published 26.03.2026

Retrieved from Vol. 12, No. 1, 2026

Suggested citation

Moroz, V., & Vyshnevskyi, A. (2026). Comprehensive proposals for greening and urban regeneration in Zhytomyr based on a selection of perennial plants. Architectural Studies, 12(1), 80-92. https://doi.org/10.56318/as/1.2026.80

https://doi.org/10.56318/as/1.2026.80

Pages 80-92

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ISSN 2411-801X e-ISSN 2786-7374  UDC 71;72
DOI: 10.56318/as