Urban parks lack vital midstory vegetation, harming wildlife and human well-being
A University of Queensland study found that many urban parks consist only of tall shade trees and mown lawns, missing the crucial midstory layer of shrubs and small trees between 1 and 10 meters tall. This vegetation provides food and shelter for small animals and birds, and its absence reduces the quality of green space for people. The researchers suggest that with proper lighting and sightlines, denser vegetation can be safely incorporated into existing parks.
The study traces the sparse park aesthetic to 1800s English landscape design, which prioritized neatness over ecological function. This design legacy leaves a vegetation gap between tall canopy trees and ground-level grass, a layer critical for supporting small fauna like fairywrens that require dense cover to move safely.
Researchers highlight that native midstory plantings become self-sustaining once established, requiring less water, fuel, and labor than continuously mowed lawns. Kings Park in Perth demonstrates that dense bushland can coexist with popular recreational spaces, suggesting the model is viable for cities seeking both ecological richness and public enjoyment.
This research could influence how municipal planners and landscape architects approach park design, potentially shifting budgets from lawn maintenance toward native plantings. Urban residents may gain improved mental health benefits and wildlife encounters, while local bird and insect populations could recover habitat lost to development. However, safety perceptions may slow adoption, requiring careful design that balances dense vegetation with visibility and lighting.