The Glasshouse boasts the UK's first root zone - an interactive area where you can learn about roots and the vital role they play.
The Root Zone is situated within a cavern in the main glasshouse. The interactive displays help all visitors learn about the interrelation between plant, plant health and what takes place underground.
The Root Zone contains:
- A model of a tree root system
- What roots do - the function and diversity of roots
- Buried Treasure - products developed from roots, including food, medicine, dyes, flavours, stimulants, sugar and spices
- Roots Live - roots as a dynamic living system
- Roots & man-made structures - the strength of roots
- Root tactics - the way roots are used in a plant's lifestyle strategy
- It's not just dirt! - an appreciation of soil, the complexity and the importance of soil
The Root Zone’s exhibit co-ordinator, Nicky Evans, is the Society’s first Principal Science Education Officer: ‘You really do feel as if you are underground here, with technology re-creating and explaining roots and their functions. The lighting is low, and the atmospheric soundtrack makes digging and creaking noises.
The underground world
A large model of a root system is built into the walls of the area with panels explaining 20 different functions that roots perform. Portholes show ‘buried treasures’ or products such as food, drugs and dyes that are produced by roots. Interactive games and photographs give an idea of the diversity of root systems and how they operate within soils. Panels stress the dynamic nature of roots, showing how they change and morph as seasons progress and weather conditions vary. The idea is to give a vivid demonstration of the ways in which the below-ground parts of plants are as important as those above.