Spatiotemporal Distribution Analysis of Spatial Vitality of Specialized Garden Plant Landscapes during Spring: A Case Study of Hangzhou Botanical Garden in China

Abstract

Specialized gardens, as integral components of botanical gardens, bear multiple functions, encompassing plant collection and conservation, scientific research, and public education, as well as serving aesthetic and recreational purposes. Their quality profoundly reflects the landscape artistry of botanical gardens, directly influencing the quality of visitors’ enjoyment and the overall experience within the botanical garden. This study aims to investigate the spatial vitality of specialized garden plant landscapes, effectively assessing the usage patterns of plant landscape spaces and promoting the optimal utilization of underutilized spaces. Taking Hangzhou Botanical Garden as a case study, considering the warming climate and suitable temperatures in spring, when most plants enter the flowering period and outdoor visitor frequency increases, the primary observational period focuses on spring to measure the spatial vitality of specialized garden plant landscapes. We obtained data through field measurements and on-site observations. Specifically, We measured and recorded information on plant species, quantity, height, crown width, and growth conditions within the plots. Additionally, we employed ground observations and fixed-point photography to document visitor numbers and activity types. We quantified spatial vitality through four indicators: visitor density, space usage intensity, diversity of age group, and richness of activity type. We explored the spatiotemporal distribution patterns of spatial vitality and investigated the relationship between plant landscape characteristics and spatial vitality using variance analysis and correlation analysis. The results indicate that, in spring, the average spatial vitality index of specialized gardens ranks from highest to lowest as follows: Lingfeng Tanmei (1.403), Rosaceae Garden (1.245), Acer and Rhododendron Garden (0.449), and Osmanthus and Crape Myrtle Garden (0.437). Additionally, the spatial vitality of specialized garden plant landscapes in spring is significantly positively correlated with the ornamental period of specialized plants, characteristics of plant viewing, accessible lawn area, spatial accessibility, and spatial enclosure. Therefore, to create vibrant specialized plant landscapes, managers and planners, when engaging in the planning and design of specialized garden plant landscapes, need to fully consider and respect the visual aesthetics and functional needs of visitors. This study will serve as a theoretical reference for subsequent research on the vitality of plant landscape spaces and other small-scale spaces. It will also provide practical guidance for the construction of plant landscapes in specialized gardens within botanical gardens and other urban green spaces.