Guide to Roof Gardening

Starting a roof garden will be very beneficial to your home and the rest of the environment. There are many benefits to enjoy ranging from its natural beauty to saving a little money on your utility bill.

Benefits

• Roof gardens are a great option for homeowners because maintenance is simple and it has a relatively low cost.

• A roof garden provides shade, and reflectivity.

• You get natural noise and heat insulation which will help save on your utility bills.

• These gardens are very decorative adding natural beauty to your living space.

• Having a roof garden will add value to your home as well as give you more privacy. You will not have to worry about children or animals running through your plants.

• Because plants retain water from rainfall, you will have less water runoff and reduced flooding.

• These gardens provide architectural features to your home in addition to recreational appeal.

• Plants in roof gardens help absorb harmful chemicals and recycle the oxygen in the air.

• Roof gardens reduce overall city heat as well as lower your air conditioning bills.

• The acid rain effect is neutralized by roof gardens.

Plants to Include

• The best plants to include on a roof garden are ones that do not have deep growing roots. It is also best to have plants that can withstand dry temperature.

• Some examples of these types of plants include thyme, chives, sedum and stonecrops.

• Another type of plant that is good for roof gardens are flowering perennials such as bell flowers and ice plants.

• Plants that require very little soil are also great options for a roof top garden.

How to Grow and Care for Your Garden

• If you have a roof that is not shaded by other buildings or trees, then your garden will have a tendency to get hot. If this is this is case, then you will have to water your garden more frequently.

• Try to leave open areas to step on throughout the structure of your garden so that you won't ruin your plants.

In-Depth Tips

• Plant only tough, sturdy plants that can stand the possible weather extremities.

• Make sure you have to have a sloping roof in order for the water to run-off.

• Your roof should be able to handle the weight of all the plants and water. You might want a light garden that is made up of planters. If this is the case, then it will weigh less. If you want a more extensive garden, then prior to installation, make sure your roof is strong enough.