Greenroof.co.uk - NatureMat™

Nature mat® - The Product

Developed exclusively by BHC, Nature Mat® consists of a geotextile base layer (which can be synthetic or biodegradable), a specially formulated substrate layer and a plant layer of selected species including Sedums. Once prepared, the system is grown on in the field to create a vegetation 'blanket' or 'mat' that has a minimum of 90% mature plant cover. This product can then be cut to size, rolled, placed on pallets and transported to site.

Nature Mat® is mainly used for green roofs where an 'instant' greening effect is required. (It should be noted that it does not in itself constitute the green roof system which consists of several different layers upon which Nature Mat® is laid). Nature Mat® can also be used as ground cover on areas that are either difficult to plant in the usual way or where low levels of maintenance are necessary.

The range of Nature Mat® applications include: green roofs, embankments and slopes, roundabouts, tramway beds, decorative cover for pots and planters, and as the solution for problem areas in the garden.

For all applications, correct preparation of the supporting surface is essential for the Nature Mat® to perform. BHC can install the correct supporting layers for each application or supply a specification for any Nature Mat® supplied.We always carry Nature Mat® in stock. Nature Mat® can also be grown to the clients particular requirements provided sufficient lead time is given.The amount of lead time needed will vary depending on plant species, time of year and quantity required.

Nature mat® for green roofs

Nature Mat® is often used as the plant layer in green roof systems. It is laid directly on to a substrate layer or growing medium which, in turn, tops the drainage and protection layers that lie above the waterproofing of the roof. Nature Mat® stabilises the substrate layer without the need for mulching and provides 'instant greening'. For more information about green roofs, see main menu.

Nature mat® for ground cover

Nature Mat® works particularly well on banks and around the base of trees where often not much else will grow. It can even be used as a 'lawn substitute' provided pathways are delineated with stepping stones or gravel, for example, since it would not tolerate constant trafficking. Nature Mat® looks fantastic integrated with many types of stone, gravel and timber.

Nature Mat® prefers light, well drained sites but will tolerate most conditions except waterlogged or densely shaded areas.

We recommend that the Nature Mat® be laid onto weed suppressant fabric pegged into the ground otherwise weeds will eventually colonise it. It is critical that the weed suppressant fabric once laid and pegged is in complete and close contact with the soil. Nature Mat® should be laid on top butting edges up tightly. On slopes, pegs should be driven through the mat to stop it from slipping until it roots through. Particular care should be taken when laying Nature Mat® over/around tree roots and, if necessary, the ground should be built up with loose soil to ensure complete close contact is achieved. For further advice on the correct preparation of the supporting surface and information on or supply of support layers for roofs please contact us.

PLEASE NOTE: Nature Mat® should not be installed during the summer months unless you are prepared to irrigate during dry periods while the mat is becoming established. Once established, the mat requires little maintenance and no watering. It is important that where it is to be used as ground cover, leaf litter is not allowed to accumulate on the Nature Mat®.

Please check here for prices.

© 2006 Blackdown Horticultural Consultants

Street Ash Nursery, Combe St. Nicholas, Chard, Somerset, TA20 3HZ, UK.
Tel. +44 (0)1460 234582

Business hours 9.00 a.m.- 5.30 p.m. Monday to Friday.
Visits by appointment only.

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