Planning a Terrace Garden? Don’t Miss These Essential Tips

It is now easier to make a garden on the rooftop

At present time where there are concrete homes all around, it is herbal to preference greenery. Everyone wants to have some greenery round them, which brings peace and freshness to the mind. But because of lack of space and constrained area, maximum human beings aren’t able to make a garden in their residence. Thus, in recent times human beings like to make a garden at the rooftop or balcony. Not only this is easy, but additionally lovely to have splendor and inexperienced in much less area. If you furthermore mght need to make a lawn on the rooftop, then right here are a few things that are very sizable to consider.

Make sure of the location before constructing a garden on the roof

Sunlight analysis

It is highly essential to know from which direction and for how long the sunlight falls on your roof.

• South facing roof gets the most sunlight.
• East facing roof gets morning sunlight.
• West facing roof gets afternoon and evening sunlight.
• North facing roof gets less sunlight.

Aside from this, consider how much shade the neighboring walls or tall buildings provide. Mobile apps or information tools can also be used for accurate information.

Protection from strong winds

If there is harsh wind on the roof, then to save the fragile plants, the wind may be halted by planting vine plants, bamboo sheets or trellis. Put heavy pots in order to avert the toppling of pots. Supporting high plants is also necessary.

Weight bearing capacity

Do not be negligent about the roofing strength. The weight of soil, pots and water combined can prove to be quite heavy. So, refer to a structural engineer and share the weight of the garden evenly over the whole area. Use light pots of plastic or fiber rather than heavy pots.

How ​​to choose plants

Plants based on climate

Not all flora can tolerate the weather for your vicinity. Ask at a local nursery or pick out plant life that are weather-precise in your place. Some regions at the terrace could be hotter or cooler, so take this into consider.

Size and growth of plants

Be aware of how large each plant will grow so they may be planted far enough apart. Ensure large plants do not shade out the small plants. Plant a combination of spreading and upright growing plants so that the garden will be attractive.

Maintenance requirements

If you’re unable to appearance after the vegetation each day, then plant low-renovation plant life like cactus, perennial plants or herbs. Placing plant life that have comparable desires together makes them simpler to look after.

Look after soil and pot

Soil quality

Select potting mix, i.e. special soil for planting in pots, which allows air and water space. Lighten and enrich the soil by incorporating peat moss and perlite. If needed, include compost and slow release fertilizer too.

Pots

All pots should have a water drain hole. Otherwise, drill holes yourself.

• Terracotta pots breathe but are prone to drying out.
• Pots made of plastic hold water but become warm during summer.
• Fiberglass or resin pots are low in weight and high in strength.

Arrange proper watering

Arrangements for drainage

Keep a tray below the pots to collect water, but ensure that it does not collect. Install a drip irrigation system so that you receive only the amount of water you need and there is no wastage.

Watering time

Water the plants by season. Every day in the summer, and once a week in winter, might be needed. Test soil moisture with finger or moisture meter.

Plant Nutrition

Nutrient Requirements

A normal compost has equal ratios of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, all of which are beneficial to plants. Certain plants might require others, so do consider their growth season.

Organic Fertilizer

Adding compost enhances soil health and encourages the growth of microbes. Bone meal, fish emulsion and seaweed fertilizer are also eco-friendly alternatives.

Weather Protection

Rain and Storms

Cover plants with tarpaulin or garden cloth during heavy rain or storms. Bring some plants indoors. Put pots on bricks or stands to avoid waterlogging.

Heat Protection

Shade plants with netting or shade cloth to prevent them from being scorched by the sun. Plant plants together to form a compacted area that holds water and keeps cool.

Make the garden accessible

Plan for easy maintenance

Plan the plants so that watering, mowing or harvesting can be done with ease. Have garden tools at one location and if there is space, a small shed or storage box can also be installed.

Make pathways

Make pathways or stepping stones to avoid stepping on plants while walking on the terrace. Use non-slip materials such as rubber mats or gravel for wet surfaces.

Take care of decoration and design

Create different sections

Put flowers in one corner, vegetables in another and herbs in another. This will be easy to maintain and look good also. Add a focal point such as a small fountain or beautiful pots.

Variety in colour and texture

Put plants with varied colours and textures of flowers and leaves to make the garden prettier. Plant different plants for different seasons so that there is always greenery all year round.

Safety measures

Avoid open roof edge

If roof edges are exposed, then add safe railings there to ensure no accidents take place. Its height must follow local regulations.

Safe floor from slips

Water might make the floor of the roof slippery. Thus, apply anti-slip coat or rubber mat on the floor.

Structural and legal issues

Grant of permission required

Before you begin a garden, inquire from your society or municipal corporation if permission is needed for this or not. There could be special regulations in certain places.

Structure check

If you are constructing a heavy garden or there is uncertainty regarding the roof’s strength, then consult an engineer. Strengthen the roof if needed.

FAQs