RootCell
Legacy structural soil support module originally introduced in 2001
RootCell Legacy Soil Support System
RootCell is an early modular structural soil support system developed to enable urban tree planting beneath paved environments.
Originally introduced in 2001, the system was developed following consultation with landscape architects, local authorities and tree specialists. Its principle was simple: topsoil provides a natural rooting medium, while the RootCell structure prevents that soil from becoming compacted beneath paved surfaces.
When filled with topsoil, RootCell provides approximately 92% soil by volume, creating protected rooting space while supporting pavement construction above.
Supporting Tree Growth Beneath Pavements
Urban trees require sufficient volumes of uncompacted soil to establish stable root systems and achieve long-term canopy growth.
RootCell modules create a structural framework beneath the pavement surface that protects topsoil from compaction while maintaining pavement stability. A load-bearing geonet can be installed over the RootCell structure to help prevent surface sub-base material entering the rooting area.
The system can also be used with RootRain irrigation and aeration, and RootDirector root management products, helping support long-term root zone management within urban planting schemes.
Load-bearing structural support beneath paved surfaces
Modular format for straightforward installation
Compatible with RootRain irrigation and aeration systems
Promotes a multiple rooting pattern suited to urban locations
Manufactured in the UK from 100% recycled material
Load-bearing geonet helps protect the rooting area from sub-base ingress
Key Characteristics
RootCell was designed to support urban tree planting beneath paved surfaces by creating a structural framework around uncompacted topsoil. Its modular format supports straightforward installation, while associated components such as RootRain, RootDirector and load-bearing geonet help manage the root zone within paved environments.
Benefits of
RootCell
RootCell provides a legacy structural soil support solution for projects where the system has already been specified or installed, supporting continuity for historic specifications and reference projects.
Protected Topsoil Volume →
Load-Bearing Support →
Root Zone Management →
Root Direction Support →
Modular Installation →
Recycled Material Construction →
Part of Our Soil Cell Range
Introducing RootSpace and StrataCell
From legacy soil support systems to current structural soil solutions for urban tree planting.
GreenBlue Urban’s soil cell range has developed from early modular support systems through to advanced structural soil frameworks for modern urban tree planting.
RootCell represents an important part of this development, supporting earlier approaches to uncompacted soil provision beneath paved surfaces.
For new projects, RootSpace is typically used where larger soil volumes and higher structural performance are required, while StrataCell provides a compact option for constrained excavation depths and shallow pavement build-ups.
Technical Guidance for Designers and Engineers
CPDs, design guidance and technical documentation used during specification and project delivery.