The impact of air pollution on the physiology of spruce and beech was studied at Headley, Hampshire. Trees grown in open-top chambers and exposed to ambient pollution showed different physiological responses from those grown in air free from pollution. For both beech and spruce, root growth and morphology were affected by pollution. These results suggest that air pollution in southern Britain may influence the growth and physiology of trees. Such effects may not always be detrimental, but may alter susceptibility to other environmental factors.
