Wind-Induced Resuspension and Net Removal of Particulate Matter (PM1–10) on Urban Shrub and Climbing Species

Elevated particulate matter (PM) concentrations pose severe health risks, necessitating green infrastructure mitigation. While deposition is well documented, wind-induced remobilization remains insufficiently quantified. This study establishes a size-fractionated (PM1–2.5 and PM2.5–10) wind-induced resuspension and net removal values for six Central European shrub and climbing species (Parthenocissus quinquefolia, Hedera helix, Viburnum opulus, Viburnum lantana, Ligustrum ovalifolium, and Cornus mas) under controlled laboratory conditions. Following standardized aerosol chamber loading, leaves were subjected to constant, laminar airflow velocity of 3 m/s. Numerical quantification of particle counts per unit area (cm2) was performed via scanning electron microscopy with backscattered electron signal processing. Results demonstrate significant interspecific variations. Parthenocissus quinquefolia was most efficient, retaining the highest particle counts (121.6 × 103 particles/cm2 for PM2.5–10) and achieving net removal rates of 46.3% and 60.5% for PM1–2.5 and PM2.5–10, respectively, relative to initial deposition. Cornus mas exhibited the lowest net removal efficiency for coarse particles (21.2% for PM2.5–10), while Hedera helix showed the highest fractional resuspension rates (k = 1.93 × 10−4 ∙ s−1 and 2.01 × 10−4 ∙ s−1, respectively). These species-specific traits are vital for optimizing urban green infrastructure. Ultimately, these findings provide actionable recommendations for targeted plant selection to maximize urban air purification.