Root protection and root guidance: two words that are quite similar but with very different meanings. We understand that it is sometimes difficult to tell them apart. That’s why we have listed all the differences for you. After reading this blog, it will be clear once and for all what the exact difference is between root protection and root guidance.
Root protection and root guidance are both designed to prevent or counter root problems, such as root pressure and damage to underground utilities. To understand the difference between root protection and root guidance, we first start with the basics: what do these terms actually mean?
Root protection
Root protection basically means that tree roots are blocked by a barrier, preventing them from growing further in a certain direction. This is also called a ‘root protection barrier’. Once roots encounter the barrier, they will continue to grow along the barrier wall at the same height. The roots usually deflect in one direction: above the equator to the left and below the equator to the right. This is related to the fact that the earth rotates on its left axis, which affects the growth direction of the roots.
Root guidance
Root guidance literally means guiding the roots in a certain direction. Similar to root protection, the roots also encounter a barrier – in the case of root guidance it is called a ‘root guidance panel’. Our guiding panels are provided with guiding ribs placed perpendicular to the panel. These ribs ensure that roots are guided downwards as soon as they encounter the panel. Once the roots reach the bottom of the panel, they continue to grow further in a horizontal direction.
Differences between root protection & root guidance
Root guidance |
Root protection |
| Possible to place within 2 metres from the tree. | Not possible to place within 2 metres from the tree (always starting from 2 metres). |
| Ensures that roots are directed downwards and continue to grow under the panel in a horizontal direction. | Blocks roots and allows them to grow along the wall at the same height. |
| When a root screen has to be installed within 2 metres from the tree, root guidance makes it possible to ensure the stability of the tree (by allowing the roots to continue growing under the panel). | When a root screen needs to be placed within 2 metres from the tree, root protection cannot ensure the stability of the tree (because it blocks the roots from growing further). |
Types of root protection & root guidance
In our product assortment, you will find three types of root screens:
- TRG (Tree Root Guiding): root guidance
- RootBlock: root protection
- RootControl: root protection
Applications TRG, RootBlock & RootControl
All three root screens are used to prevent or counter root pressure and to protect underground utilities from root problems. Now you are probably wondering: when do I apply which type of root screen? We have designed a selection menu especially for this question, guiding you step by step to the right choice:
The answer: root protection or root guidance?
Before choosing between root protection or root guidance, it is important to have a clear idea of the goal you want to achieve with it. Do you want to protect underground utilities from root damage? Or do you want to prevent or counter root pressure? Or both? And how much space is there around the tree to place root screens? Once you have the answers to these questions, you can easily fill in the selection menu and find the right root screen for your purpose.
We hope the difference between root protection and root guidance is now a lot clearer. If you still want more information about this subject, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our product consultants will be happy to explain more about root protection and root guidance!
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