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Description:
A living root bridge, also known as a living root tunnel is a kind of simple suspension bridge made up of living underground plant roots anchored in the soil. They’re most prevalent in the eastern portion of the Northeast Indian country of Meghalaya. They were named after the region where they are located: The Meghalaya National Park. The trees that generate these living root bridges are native to this particular environment: The Meghalaya State Park is located in North East India. Here are some of their characteristics:
As they grow, they make an arch over which they can rest and grow. On reaching maturity, they begin to form a tunnel system which leads to the opposite side of the root bridge. This type of living root bridges is formed anywhere there are tree roots growing: For instance, in urban areas, they’re commonly found under the footpaths of roads or in railway stations.
What makes living root bridges appealing to us? Well, first of all they provide an easy and natural way for water to flow into a specific section of a pond or lake. Since they are designed as suspension bridges, water can easily flow into them and support the weight of the aquatic plants they support.
They offer several benefits for people:
These living root bridges are extremely beneficial for the natural environment as well as for human health. They prevent erosion and build up of sediment due to heavy water runoff. And since they are self-supporting, they require very little maintenance. They can grow to a certain length and can support various types of plant life. They can be found all over the world: Living root bridges can be found in China, Pakistan, the Himalayas and in some parts of the US.
Their appearance depends on what kind of plants they are surrounding:
The most common types of living root bridges are those that grow directly into the water. But there are also those that can grow over smaller creeks or rivers. Usually, such bridges do not exceed one meter in height and cannot support more than a few plants. Some bridges have roots that stretch out into the pond. They can grow very large in this case.
How they look like:
The bridge grows diagonally towards the water and has a shape that resembles that of a root. Their colour is soft green and they do not have any visible stem. They are about two to three times longer than their width. They look like a shallow trough that has a light coloured water flowing through it.
When to use them:
Most people find using living root bridges in ponds and lakes quite beneficial. They help to slow down the rate of erosion and help prevent plants from becoming submerged. If you place them around your pond or lake before the start of the rainy season or when the algae level is really high, then they will help you prevent damage to the structure caused by excessive algae.
Where to find them:
Living root bridges can be found at almost any garden store. However, you might need to order some extra ones because most suppliers only carry a limited number of them. The best way to get a good supply of living root bridges is to buy them in bulk from a supplier who offers them at a lower price. You might also check online for some great deals.
How to construct them:
To make a bridge, you will first have to create a small pond with a depth of around one meter. Once you have made a pond, then you can start digging out roots using a stick or an auger. Keep in mind not to dig too deep as your bridge might collapse. Once you have the roots dug, then you can begin attaching them with small pieces of wood or wire.
How to maintain them:
Like any type of ornamental grass, living root bridges need a certain amount of sunlight and water to grow. This means that you will have to relocate them regularly to prevent them from drying out. You can also mist them occasionally to keep them moist.
The best way to plant them is in groups. However, if you cannot find them in large numbers, then you can purchase them individually. You should place your living root bridges in pots that have holes in the bottom to allow for expansion of the roots. However, make sure that the pot is wide enough so that the roots can have room to spread.
