How To Grow A Garden On A Rubber Roof

Be aware that plants towards the apex of the roof will dry out quicker than those further down.

How to grow a garden on a rubber roof.

Green roofs are a system of layers. Here s a little intro to my roof gaden that i have been tending for about 3 years. To start off soak a sponge in vinegar. Weed barrier is then placed over the gravel layer and a moisture blanket is laid over the weed barrier.

To grow edible plants on a roof it is important to use large pots filled with rich but light soil that has a good water and nutrient holding capacity. It can be extremely gusty on a roof especially if it s unshielded by adjacent buildings. You can plant a hedge of evergreens run vines up a trellis wall or simply tuck under an umbrella table. Pick the right planting medium.

The first layer consists of two layers of pond liner or rubber roofing. First you need to buy a few things before proceeding with the task. Pond liners may be used to prevent the roots water or greenery from entering the roof. Be sure to go over the surrounding areas too because they may have early growths of mold that you cannot see.

A small storage space even if it s just a simple wooden box will keep supplies handy and prevent them from blowing around on a windy rooftop. Many of the most common culinary herbs happen to grow in dry rocky places making them ideal candidates for a green roof. Bare patches in mature green roofs will need re planting as necessary. If your rooftop garden will be in full view you may want to plan for screening.

Soil made up of compost peat and perlite such as pro mix organic vegetable herb mix will work nicely. Step 2 applying vinegar use your sponge to spread vinegar over any areas of your rubber roofing that have mold growing on them. If your roof has no windbreaks either install something to shelter your plants like a well secured trellis or choose low containers that hug the perimeter walls. It s no fun lugging tools fertilizers and soil up to the roof every time you want to garden.

If you are planning on enjoying your garden at night candles aren t the best lighting for weeding. Fleshy leaved herbs and salads may need watering often in hot weather. Take note of the areas that are most vulnerable to wind and plan accordingly. Before outlining the form of your garden consider sun and wind exposure on the roof.

Its spring in brooklyn which means it time to start the garden. Making use of root membranes in the garden prevents the increase of weeds below the decking. The next layer is a drainage layer such as gravel. Electricity isn t essential but it sure makes things easier.