Urban tree grates

Why install Plantco CityGrate® tree grates?

Far less expensive than metal grates, Plantco CityGrate® tree grates, made from recycled and recyclable HDPE, are the optimal solution to ensure harmonious coexistence between trees and city dwellers. Their design makes them resistant to de-icing salt and rain, and they require no painting.
Molded with a black carbon UV treatment, this process prevents fading and preserves the durability of CityGrate®. It also enables resistance to extreme climates and even cigarette burns (melting point 103°–140°C / flash point approx. 371°C).

In urban environments, tree roots face three major risks: construction works, repeated foot traffic, and soil sealing. Constant trampling compacts the soil, limiting the efficient circulation of water and nutrients, which can significantly slow down tree growth.
Using Plantco CityGrate® tree grates helps counter these negative effects by achieving two key objectives: protecting the soil against excessive trampling and maintaining soil permeability, which is essential for tree health.

It is crucial to ensure that these HDPE tree grates are properly sized to fit the tree base. If needed, Plantco CityGrate® grates can be easily cut with a reciprocating saw, allowing the tree space to be widened within minutes. This operation can also be carried out after installation as the tree grows.

How to install Plantco CityGrate®?

The grates can be installed by a single person since each half weighs less than 15 kg.

Plantco CityGrate® tree grates must be installed on a surrounding support frame. This frame can be built entirely in concrete, with HDPE joists, or with our dedicated steel frame. A 5 mm expansion gap must be left around the grate.
Once the frame is properly installed and positioned, use a soil–stone mix or another suitable material to fill the space between the top of the tree pit and the underside of the grate, creating a compacted bearing base. Assemble the two halves on trestles, then position the complete grate.

How is Plantco CityGrate® packaged?

Each tree grate is delivered with tamper-proof assembly bolts.