Abstract: Based on the Winkler beam theory, the working mechanismand the bearing capacity of a lateral-loaded root-foundation are investigated,with a model of calculation. The elastic solution of thelateral-loaded root-foundation is obtained by using the load transfermethod. The lateral bearing capacity is calculated, and the distributionsof the lateral displacement, flexural moment, shear force and soil resistance ofthe root-foundation are obtained. The results show that thelateral bearing capacity of the root-foundation is better than the traditionalcaisson foundation, with the top lateral displacement being reduced by35%~45% and the lateral bearing capacity being increased by45%~55%. The calculated results are in good agreement with the testresults in the elastic range, therefore, the load transfer method can be applied in theengineering calculation of root-foundations.