Study of planting density and canopy cover in open spaces in Budapest. Case studies part 3 – Blaha Lujza Square

Urban trees need to be managed strategically because they improve the microclimate, biodiversity, and liveability. This study looks at the planting density and canopy cover in Blaha Lujza Square in Budapest. We evaluate the growth in urban conditions by comparing the canopy development and tree condition from planting to the present. For decades, the square had nine trees; in 2022, 81 were added, making a total of 90 specimens spread across 6,716 m², with 2.8–4 m between them. Over 90% of the canopy is currently open, but this will drop as overlapping canopies form. Afforestation enhances ecological function, but from the standpoint of landscape architecture the dense planting reduces canopy quality and spatial aesthetics