How To Grow A Garden On A Rubber Roof
Here s a little intro to my roof gaden that i have been tending for about 3 years.
How to grow a garden on a rubber roof. To start off soak a sponge in vinegar. Step 2 applying vinegar use your sponge to spread vinegar over any areas of your rubber roofing that have mold growing on them. 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.
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. Electricity isn t essential but it sure makes things easier. Many of the most common culinary herbs happen to grow in dry rocky places making them ideal candidates for a green roof. First you need to buy a few things before proceeding with the task.
Bare patches in mature green roofs will need re planting as necessary. The next layer is a drainage layer such as gravel. Pick the right planting medium. Making use of root membranes in the garden prevents the increase of weeds below the decking.
Ensure plants establish properly by watering for the first year after planting. In rooftop containers and raised beds potting soil is your best friend. If you are planning on enjoying your garden at night candles aren t the best lighting for weeding. Its spring in brooklyn which means it time to start the garden.
If your rooftop garden will be in full view you may want to plan for screening. Green roofs are a system of layers. Weed barrier is then placed over the gravel layer and a moisture blanket is laid over the weed barrier. 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.
You can plant a hedge of evergreens run vines up a trellis wall or simply tuck under an umbrella table. This is where a living roof crosses over to become an herb garden. Be aware that plants towards the apex of the roof will dry out quicker than those further down. It s no fun lugging tools fertilizers and soil up to the roof every time you want to garden.
It can be extremely gusty on a roof especially if it s unshielded by adjacent buildings. Take note of the areas that are most vulnerable to wind and plan accordingly. Fleshy leaved herbs and salads may need watering often in hot weather. The first layer consists of two layers of pond liner or rubber roofing.