A garden is a lovely addition to any home, but not everybody has the space to grow one. In such cases, you need to think a little differently. A rooftop garden is a wonderful way to add some greenery to your surroundings. It’s perfect for the urban dweller and is a great way to make use of unused space. It’s not complicated to build one; although there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Seek Permission
Home rental services like NestAway connect people with flats for rent in Bangalore and other major cities. If you live in one or any other apartment, it is your prerogative to find out if the rental-property rules allow for rooftop gardens. The same principle applies if living in a fully furnished Apartment for rent. You will save yourself a lot of money, time, and hassle by getting this important aspect out of the way.
Assess the Roofs Structural Load Capacity
Not all buildings are designed to take on extra weight. The Soil is heavy and wet soil even more so. Constructing a rooftop garden without consulting a structural engineer can have costly and even dangerous consequences. Before building your garden, contact an expert who can assess the roof’s structural integrity.
Decide How to Water it
One of the biggest conundrums with building a rooftop garden is to decide how to water it. You could carry buckets of water, but it is tiring and not very practical. Drip irrigation is a very efficient system, as it delivers the right amount of water to the soil and reduces water wastage. However, it can be expensive and needs maintenance. A recycling system is another option. It collects rainwater and pumps it back out to water the garden.
Use windbreaks
Rooftops are very windy, and rooftop gardens can easily get damaged if precautions are not taken. Windbreaks such as trellises can protect flowers and plants from strong winds. They also add a pretty element to gardens and can become a lovely focal point.
Install shade
Plants and flowers need the sunshine, but too much of it can damage them. Keep in mind that rooftop gardens are exposed to a lot of heat. Aside from the sun, heat is reflected off windows, buildings, and vehicles. Installing shade to keep excess sun and heat away from the garden can help it thrive.
Consider cost
Rooftop gardens can be elaborate or simple. Much depends on the cost and your budget. The good news is that you can always start small and add to it later. Frills and fancies such as furniture and lighting can increase the cost so you might want to do away with them or include them later. Don’t let a lack of space keep you from building a garden. With a little planning, effort, and the tips above, you can have the garden that you have always wanted.