Roof Gardens are the gardens which are on the roof of a building. Roof gardening is carried on by urban dwellers who have very little or no space for gardening. Hence, roof gardens help a lot and besides having decorative benefits, the roof plantings also provide food (if fruits and vegetables are grown), temperature control, architectural enhancements, hydrological benefits and recreational opportunities.
There are two types of roof gardens namely extensive rooftop gardening and intensive rooftop gardening.
Extensive rooftop gardening – These gardens weigh less and make use of a combination of thin layer of soil and containers. For this garden, a layer of soil which is 5 inches deep is required. Place the containers in their desired spot, plant the desired vegetation and set up a barrel compost bin.
Intensive rooftop gardening – These gardens consist of layers of protective membranes and the soil is brought to create landscaped gardens. Apply a coat of vinyl to the rooftop for protection against water damage. This technique requires one foot of soil. Drip irrigation can be used in intensive rooftop gardens.
Some of the rooftop gardening ideas involve –
Container gardening – Container gardening involves the use of containers and is the easiest way to start rooftop gardening. One should make sure that the containers used for this gardening are sufficiently tall. Also, make sure to choose plants which are drought resistant and can withstand heat.
Trellising – Trellising gardening is the best option if the rooftop garden is for recreational purpose. This method helps in taking advantage of the containers as well as spreads the growth of the plant upwards and maximizes usable roof space.
Semi – permanent planting beds – This is a technique of rooftop gardening which involves the construction of larger plant boxes. Annuals and perennials are good options in this case.
A traditional vegetable garden is good way to start rooftop garden. Pick your favorite vegetables to grow and increase their number each year. If you want your garden for recreational purpose, then go for a relaxing flower garden. You can mix all the color flowers for a multi-colored effect whereas go for all purple-colored flowers for a royal feel. Herbs are also the best option in case container gardening.
Thus, rooftop gardens are like refreshing destinations and are creating a beautiful haven of color and greenery.
