Over 500 projects have installed the Silva Cell, an underground framework for growing large trees in urban areas and help manage storm water on-site. Its manufacturer has just released a newer version that is 20 percent lighter, designed for easier installation, and is priced 10 to 15 percent lower
than the original.

Last week at the American Society of Landscape Architects Annual Meeting and EXPO, DeepRoot unveiled a new and improved version of their popular Silva Cell product – Silva Cell 2, which like its predecessor is used to provide an underground framework for growing large trees in an urban area.

After nearly eight years of helping build greener communities with the original product, the manufacturer took extensive client feedback and used the input to create a next generation product that is 20 percent lighter, and reportedly easier to install. It retains its strength while using less material. And it does it all at a 10 to 15 percent lower price point.

"We are proud to present our new Silva Cell 2," said Graham Ray, CEO of the manufacturer. "This new, more flexible version will allow designers to grow long-living urban trees and manage stormwater runoff while also accommodating a broader variety of projects and design choices."

So far over 500 projects, encompassing approximately 5,000 trees, have used the original cell. Regardless of space or size constraints, the product is designed to extend the lifetime of trees by allowing them to have access to the healthy conditions they need to thrive. And it can be a critical tool for communities seeking to manage storm water on-site to keep local watersheds healthy.

The design of the new cell reduces the extent of excavation needed by using space more efficiently while delivering the same functional soil volume. It also allows greater flexibility for project designers. The new design eliminates the steel rod used in the original and uses new materials for even greater durability.