Biobarrier root control fabric is being used as the root barrier in a test of structural and noncompacted soils surrounding tree plantings in urban plazas.

Biobarrier Root Control Fabric Selected for Urban Plaza Test

Biobarrier root control fabric is being used as the root barrier in a test of structural and noncompacted soils surrounding tree plantings in urban plazas. The test, conducted by Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories of Charlotte, N.C., compares a variety of soils and their efficacy for tree growth in a restricted area, the condition experienced by many urban trees. Biobarrier’s role in this test is to confine the tree roots to the cell where the tree is growing.


“We’re very pleased that, of the various root barriers Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories could have chosen for this test on soils, they selected Biobarrier,” said Roger Bergh, Jr., Senior Sales Manager for Biobarrier at Fiberweb, Inc. “Past studies of root barriers at the Lab have shown they cause tree roots to grow deeper in the soil to help protect hardscapes from the damage their roots can cause.”


Trees in urban settings are known for their benefits, but highly developed urban environments are detrimental to the trees themselves. The Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories test compares structural and noncompacted soils for trees surrounded by pavement to learn which soil is most effective for tree growth and health. When this independent research is completed, Bartlett will know more about the impact of treatments on tree growth, how better to maintain trees in an urban setting and the impact of treatment on the integrity of the surrounding concrete.


Biobarrier root control fabric is insurance against root damage on hardscapes and landscapes. For only pennies a month per square foot, a one-time installation of Biobarrier is guaranteed for 15 years to prevent roots from causing damage. By reducing maintenance and liability costs, Biobarrier helps increase the value of your budget and your ROI.


Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories conducts scientific research and develops the recommendations and guidelines for the services provided by the Lab’s parent company, Bartlett Tree Experts. The permanent laboratories staff consists of Ph.D.’s in plant pathology, entomology, physiology, and soil science, and technicians with degrees in horticulture, botany, arboriculture, biology, forestry and similar disciplines.