Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 95-105 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/tgmb 100 expression of specific traits (Son and Park, 2022). Another validation method is to conduct field trials in the target species. In this case, plant materials, such as mutants or transgenic plants, can be grown to validate the relationship between the associated genes and specific traits. By observing the performance of these plants in natural environments, the associations identified in the GWAS results can be verified, and the degree of contribution of the genes to the traits can be further understood. Through experimental validation, the reliability and effectiveness of GWAS results can be further established, providing more reliable scientific evidence for genetic research on ornamental trees. 4 Aesthetic and Adaptive Traits of Ornamental Trees Aesthetic and adaptive traits of ornamental trees are indispensable aspects of garden design and maintenance, jointly determining the overall performance and long-term ecological value of garden plants (Xing et al., 2023). In landscape design practice, the combined effects of these traits must be fully considered to ensure that the selected plants not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also adapt to local environments, maintaining lasting vitality and functionality. Through in-depth research on the aesthetics and adaptive traits of garden trees, it can better guide the selection and configuration of garden plants and realize the harmonious unity of aesthetic value and ecological function. 4.1 Aesthetic traits of ornamental trees and their role in landscape design The aesthetic traits of ornamental trees refer to those characteristics that influence ornamental value and aesthetic perception, such as tree form, leaf shape, flower color, fruit appearance, and seasonal changes. These traits are crucial in landscape design because they directly affect the visual appeal and spatial experience of the landscape (Orians, 2022). Aesthetic traits not only enhance the ornamental value of gardens but also reflect the designer's intentions and cultural connotations, such as using specific tree species and forms to create unique garden environments. Moreover, the aesthetic traits of ornamental trees can harmonize with the surrounding environment, enhancing regional characteristics, and providing seasonal landscape effects, thereby enriching people's visual and emotional experiences. 4.2 Adaptive traits of ornamental trees and their ecological and economic value Adaptive traits refer to the ability of ornamental trees to adapt to external environmental conditions, survive, and reproduce, including drought tolerance, cold resistance, disease and pest resistance, and pollution tolerance. These traits are essential for tree growth and development in specific environments, especially in complex and harsh urban environments. Ornamental trees with good adaptive traits can not only grow and develop better but also reduce maintenance costs and enhance the stability and resilience of urban ecosystems. From an ecological perspective, trees with strong adaptability can provide more stable ecological services to cities, such as air purification, soil and water conservation, and biodiversity protection. Economically, selecting tree species with strong adaptability can reduce the maintenance costs of gardens and increase the economic benefits of greening investments. 4.3 Relationship and interaction between aesthetic traits and adaptive traits There is a complex interaction between the aesthetic traits and adaptive traits of ornamental trees. Ideally, ornamental trees should possess both desirable aesthetic features and adaptive traits. However, in practical applications, these two aspects of traits may sometimes conflict. Tree species with extremely high ornamental value may have higher environmental requirements and may not grow well in harsh environments, while some highly adaptable tree species may have average aesthetic performance. Therefore, landscape designers need to balance these two considerations when selecting tree species based on specific design goals and environmental conditions. Furthermore, through scientific research and breeding efforts, it is possible to cultivate tree species that possess both aesthetic value and good adaptability, achieving an optimal combination of the two.
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