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Rooftop gardens have become a welcome addition to urban areas, where most of the land is littered with pavement and skyscrapers and there's not much space for growing. These gardens can be as simple as several containers filled with flowers or vegetables and elaborate enough to require irrigation systems. 

Space

  • Access to a private rooftop
  • Structural loading requirements will depend on how many people can occupy a garden
  • Should have structural stability
  • Most plants are housed in containers

Sunlight


  • Plants that thrive in constant sunlight are best, as the garden will be exposed all day long

Budget


  • Most cost-effective when a roof is newly constructed or needs to be replaced
  • A licensed structural engineer must conduct a structural analysis, and proper permits may be required by a city
  • Safety improvements, irrigation systems, garden materials, maintenance costs and fees can add up
  • Irrigation is crucial to supplement rainfall, and a plumber and water connection may be necessary

Time


  • Installing the garden takes a bit of time: installing boxes, insulation, drainage systems
  • Requires little maintenance, similar to any other garden for weeding and watering, depending on the size of the garden

Ideal for
...

  • Anyone looking to save energy costs
  • Growing plants with little outdoor space
  • Enhancing a living area
  • Those hoping to establish greener habits

    Find out the 10 Things Every Gardener Must Know!

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