Green roofs are beautiful. They save space and are great for the environment. Roof gardens can serve as air filters. They get rid of greenhouse emissions and improve air quality. The gardens also create a barrier that may conserve energy. You can plant a garden on the roof of your home or office building. Here are a few tips to care for your roof garden.
- Watering and Feeding
Your roof garden requires feeding and watering just like any other garden. Because of the limited access to nutrients, your garden will probably need some fertilizer. After establishing your plantings, the garden may not need you to water it. The water from natural precipitation may be enough.
You need supplementary water supply for an intensive roof garden. It is especially important for a steep roof where most of the water flows off quickly. Drip irrigation is one of the most preferred ways of watering roof gardens.
- Ensure the Roof Is Strong Enough
Double check to ensure that your roof is strong enough to hold a garden. Potted plants can be very heavy and you should not have too many of them.
Note that the plants will keep getting heavier as they grow. If you suspect that your garden may be getting too heavy, seek the opinion of a professional.
- Pests
Your roof garden will give pests the shelter and food they need to thrive. You need a system to get rid of harmful insects and animals. Inspect your roof garden for signs of destructive animals and insects. The signs of infestation include animal droppings, chewed-up plants, and nests.
If there is decayed vegetation, get rid of it as it is likely to attract ants. If there is stagnant water, it may be a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
If you have persistent infestations, you may need the help of pest control professionals.
- Sun Exposure
Ensure that there is enough sun in your roof garden to promote growth. If there is shade from neighboring buildings, your plants may not receive enough light. Arrange your plants on the garden based on their need for sunlight. Pick plants that are suitable for the light your roof garden receives.
- Fire Resistance
Promoting fire resistance is an important part of caring for your roof garden. If you let the garden dry out excessively, it may become a fire hazard. Make the garden safer by observing these tips:
- Grow succulents as they are unlikely to dry out
- Use growing mediums with high inorganic material percentage
- Use a drip irrigation system
- Install fire alarms
- Consider the Window
If your roof garden is in an urban setting, it may get windy. You can reduce the effects of wind by using a fence or a small wall. Check the local codes to ensure that it is legal to put up a structure.
If you need help designing a roof garden, consider seeking the help of Garden Club London. A team of experts will help you plant and maintain the garden of your dreams.
