Roof Garden Plans

Determine whether you want a garden that is laid directly onto the rooftop or a container garden. Container gardens are a lighter load on the roof, and the roof won't need waterproofing like with a direct garden. If you want a garden directly on the roof, lay down a long-lasting waterproof membrane over the surface of the roof to protect it from moisture damage.

Spend some time on the roof to determine the amount of sun and wind the rooftop receives. This will determine to some extent the types of plants you grow. If you are in a very urban area with lots of high-rise buildings, sun may be an issue, in which case shade-loving plants should be used. If there is a high volume of wind on the roof, use wind breakers, like baffling screens on the side of the roof that receives the prevailing winds.

Consider the type of material for your rooftop garden. Use plastic or other lightweight potting containers rather than ceramic or terra-cotta to reduce weight. Use fiberglass rocks instead of real ones if you want to add rocks to the general landscaping. Use a canvas awning instead of a wooden arbor or gazebo in seating areas. Incorporate lightweight alternatives wherever possible to reduce strain on the roof.

Place vegetable garden beds close to a water source if you are only having a vegetable garden as this makes maintaining the garden beds much easier.

Reconsider the use of lawns on a roof, as this will use a lot of water, which will evaporate much faster than on the ground. If you want to cover an open area of roof, lightweight decking is a good option.

Use lattice with vines to obscure eyesores on the roof, like vents or large air-conditioning units. Alternatively, potted shrubs, ornamental screens or bamboo reed fencing can do the job as well.

Ensure that all the materials you plan to use on the roof garden can physically be taken up to the roof. Consider how many floors up the roof is and how you will navigate stairs and tight entrance-ways.