Page 27 - Landscape-Issue142

RoofToP
RoofToP

EdIblE
EdIblE

gaRdEns
gaRdEns

n today’s urban setting, dominated by townhouses, flats, and apartments, • Roof Slope and Pitch: The slope of your roof is vital for both plant
the urge to cultivate fresh, organic, and healthy food might frequently stability and water management. a steep slope can cause plants to
Iappear out of reach due to restricted space. The concept of “green roofs” slide off, while a flat roof may lead to water pooling. designing with
or edible rooftop gardens is rapidly gaining popularity as urban residents the right pitch ensures a safe and efficient garden setup.
look for new ways to include gardening into their daily life. Effective rooftop • Plant Placement: Consider the orientation of your roof, local
gardens combine food production with environmental sustainability, climate, and exposure to wind and shade. Position plants
which includes reduced rainfall runoff, heating and cooling requirements, strategically to maximize sunlight and protect them from harsh
biodiversity, aesthetic value, and air quality. as urbanisation intensifies, conditions. opt for hardy, drought-tolerant species that thrive in
the availability of space per person decreases, driving the need for creative rooftop environments.
solutions like edible rooftop gardens. These gardens provide a sustainable, • Wind Mitigation: In areas prone to strong winds, consider
cost-effective source of fresh produce, offering health benefits. incorporating aesthetically pleasing windbreaks such as trellises
or shade cloths. These not only protect your plants but also add a
unique architectural element to your rooftop.

While the concept of rooftop gardening is appealing, several critical
factors must be considered to ensure success:
• Structural Integrity: Ensure that your roof can support the Rooftop gardens inherently align with Water Wise principles,
additional weight of soil, plants, and water. Consulting a structural particularly in their use of rainwater and prevention of stormwater
engineer before starting your project is essential to prevent any runoff. by capturing and utilizing rainwater, these gardens reduce
structural damage. the need for supplementary irrigation, conserving precious water
• Waterproofing and Protection: To safeguard your existing roof, resources. additionally, the vegetation on green roofs slows down
an additional protective layer is necessary unless you’re using trays water runoff, minimising the impact on urban drainage systems and
or containers. This layer will prevent water damage and ensure the reducing the risk of flooding.
longevity of both your garden and your roof.
• Drainage: Proper drainage is crucial to avoid water accumulation, Always be #WaterWise
which can lead to roof damage and plant root rot. Incorporating
Water Wise principles like using permeable materials can enhance
drainage and prevent excessive runoff.