The root laboratory is a platform for studying the effects of environmental conditions on above- and belowground plant processes under controlled conditions, especially in the context of climate change. The Experiments conducted in the Joensuu dasotrons are connected to the physiology, anatomy, morphology, phenology and growth of roots and aboveground parts. In a broader context, the general framework of studies in the Joensuu root laboratory are linked to plant acclimatisation and adaptation to varying and changing weather and climate conditions, effects of environmental conditions on plant growth and production, and carbon and nutrient cycles of trees and forests. The special feature of the facility is that air and soil temperatures can be controlled independently from each other (soil temperature below 0 degrees), and that the annual plant cycle can be accelerated. This allows a faster realisation of experiments, that specifically aim at assessing plant mechanisms, and how they are affected by environmental conditions. One advantage of the facility is that all kind of plants can be studied, like cereals, pasture plants, perennials or tree seedlings and saplings. The root research team at Luke Joensuu has long experience of conducting experiments, and the facility has been used for extensive studies into the effects of extreme conditions on boreal forest tree seedlings, e.g. low soil temperature, soil frost conditions, waterlogging during the dormancy or growing season, or soil drought conditions. These will have an increased importance with climate change, and in this respect the Joensuu dasotrons offer a valuable research facility.