One of the most common questions posed when beginning an urban forest project is: how wide do tree roots grow? The answer is almost always: wider than you think. Tree roots frequently extend well beyond the edge of the canopy, which means the visible dripline is only a starting point — not the boundary of… More
A common assumption in urban tree design is that tree roots do not grow more than 24” below the surface. There’s a reason this idea has stuck around: in many city environments, roots are indeed concentrated close to the surface. Urban soils are often compacted, poorly drained, oxygen-limited, interrupted by utilities, or constrained by pavement… More
Soil structure is one of the greatest influences on pore space in soil, and how easily air, water, and roots can move through a soil. Many people are aware of what soil texture – proportions of sand, silt and clay – they are dealing with on a site; however, few people consider a soil’s structure,… More
Remarkable Objects is a DeepRoot podcast about the intersection of nature and urban design. We think the question of how we construct cities is central to how well we function as a community. How can we incorporate nature into our cities in new, meaningful ways — creating healthy, sustainable places for people? What are the… More
Healthy trees can grow in even the most challenging urban environments, provided they receive enough water, soil, sunlight, and appropriate care. Vigorous urban trees help keep people healthier, cool cities during the summer, reduce energy use, support wildlife, raise property values, and make communities more welcoming. Yet heat and drought in many parts of North… More
The pre-installation meeting is one of the most important — and free! — services offered by DeepRoot. They provide an opportunity for a DeepRoot representative to meet with installing contractors prior to the start of their Silva Cell installations to help ensure that they’re comfortable with the installation process. What are the details of these… More
Do you need to have prior Silva Cell experience to install the system? No! Our Standard Specifications call for Silva Cells to be installed by a “qualified installer whose work has resulted in successful installation of planting soils and planter drainage systems, underground piping, chambers, and vault structures.” In other words, contractors can meet these… More
Silva Cells and On-Structure Installations The DeepRoot Silva Cell system has been installed in dozens of rooftop and on-structure projects around the world. Whether on top of existing structures — such as parking garages — or a garden terrace atop a new construction project, Silva Cells can help create structure as well as bioretention for… More
In the July 2019 issue of ISA Arboriculture & Urban Forestry magazine, Hossain, Stuhlinger, Olson, and Babst contributed, “A Comparison of Indirect Water Devices for Benefiting Newly Transplanted Urban Trees.” Urban trees often undergo a period of post-transplant stress which is exacerbated by a water-limited environment. Watering devices are available to help a newly planted… More
Introduction When we talk about low-impact development and design today, the term “suspended pavement” is frequently used — but rarely defined. It’s important to understand this practice within the field of green infrastructure, so let’s examine what suspended pavement is as well as its history, uses, composition, and case studies. What is Suspended Pavement? Suspended… More
At DeepRoot, we promote large volumes of non-compacted, biologically active loam as essential for street tree health and longevity. Urban foresters generally adhere to the following minimums: 300 cubic feet for small trees, 600 cubic feet for medium trees, and 1,000 cubic feet for large trees. However, some municipalities are taking soil volume cubic feet… More
Species diversity in the urban forest is an extremely important topic and – unlike so many other design choices that are hindered by lengthy planning processes, tightening budgets, and maintenance considerations – it’s something we can actually have an impact on in the short term as part of the ongoing cycle of tree replacement. I’ve… More
Soil. Stormwater. Sustainable Infrastructure.
Request a Quote [email protected]
Tel: 415 781 9700
Toll Free: 800 458 7668
Toll Free: 800 277 7668
Fax: 415 781 0191
