Roof gardens are popular because they make it possible to enjoy the benefits of a garden under limited space. If you are a city dweller, you have probably considered the idea of having a rooftop garden. However, the process of planting a rooftop garden requires a lot of time and effort.

Reasons to Have a Rooftop Garden

• Plants enjoy sun exposure
• To take advantage of used or underused space
• To rectify an eyesore
• To improve the ambience of your space

Planting Your Rooftop Garden

The process of planting your rooftop garden and caring for it is a lot like maintaining any other garden. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Some of them include:

• Get Permission

Even though rooftop gardens are great, your landlord may not think the same. Get their permission before planting your garden. They may have concerns about your local regulations, the accessibility of your garden, and fire regulations.

• Consider Structural Integrity

Do not start planting your rooftop garden unless you are sure that your roof is strong enough to hold the load. Get the opinion of a professional to determine your structural integrity. Pots and wet soil can be heavier than you imagine.

• Check the Depth

Unlike other garden types, rooftop gardens have a very specific substrate depth. Do not start planting until you know it. That way, you can ensure that your plant roots won’t be too deep for the substrate where you plant them.

• The Size and Weight of Your Plants

Consider the size and weight of different plants before planting them on your rooftop garden. Some plants may be too big or heavy for your roof. Think about how you will get your plants onto your garden without causing structural damage.

• Sun Exposure 

All plants need sun exposure for optimal growth. Before setting up your roof garden, ensure that your roof is not shaded by other buildings. Think about the amount of heat getting to your garden. You may need to provide some form of shade for the garden.

• Accessibility

This is one of the most important things to keep in mind when setting up your roof garden. It is pointless to have a garden that you cannot access. Think about how you are going to get supplies to and from the roof. Can you run a hose to the roof? If not, how easy is it to get watering cans and containers to your garden?

• Cost

Even though roof gardens have lots of benefits, you don’t need to go beyond your budget for them. Think about the amount you are willing to spend on them. When first designing your roof garden, you don’t need to include all the features of your dreams. Start slowly and add on as you get more pots, plants, and water features.

• Storage

Gardening requires the use of pots, buckets, tools, and fertilizers. Before planting your garden, make sure that you have sufficient storage space. Some of the most convenient storage options include shelves and built-in storage in your benches.

If you need help designing your rooftop garden, seek help from Garden Club London. You can get help from the design to the completion phase.