A tree grate is a metallic

grating A grating is any regularly spaced collection of essentially identical, parallel, elongated elements. Gratings usually consist of a single set of elongated elements, but can consist of two sets, in which case the second set is usually perpendicu ...

installed at the same level with the pavement around a tree that allows the soil underneath to stay uncompacted and the pedestrians to walk near the tree without stepping on the soil. Grate slots allow tree roots to absorb air, sunlight, and water, meanwhile its soil is protected from pedestrian traffic impact. Tree grates create a protective barrier, providing uncompacted soil and development space for tree roots. They also serve as a decorative element along ceremonial streets, matching a street's design style and personality.

References

''Trees in the Urban Landscape: Site Assessment, Design, and Installation'', Peter J. Trowbridge, Nina L. Bassuk, John Wiley & Sons, 2004, page 91

''Site Furnishings: A Complete Guide to the Planning, Selection and Use of Landscape Furniture and Amenities'', Bill Main, Gail Greet Hannah, John Wiley & Sons, 2010, page 159

External links

* http://www.dictionaryofconstruction.com/definition/tree-grate.html
Tree grates in "The ultimate manhole covers web site"
Pavements Pedestrian infrastructure {{engineering-stub