System Build-up “Urban Rooftop Farming” – Proven Drainage Technology for Growing Vegetables and Fruits on Roofs

The number of densely populated urban centres is increasing. More than half of the world’s population now lives in towns or cities, where undeveloped or green spaces are seldom to be found. Green roofs, as a counterbalance to this, have made the breakthrough in such densely-populated areas.

It comes as no surprise¸ therefore, that roof areas are used for the production of fruits, vegetables and herbs.

A vegetable garden on the roof offers many environmental benefits. Supply routes and emissions are minimized, as the garden is close to the consumers. Short supply routes also mean that the goods are fresher when delivered and, therefore, tastier. And, the plants filter pollutants from the air, thereby contributing to an improved climate in towns and cities.

Technology for a fruitful harvest

The ZinCo system build-up “Urban Rooftop Farming” provides perfect growing conditions on the roof location. The drainage and water storage element Floradrain® FD 40-E as the core piece of the build-up stores stormwater in its upper cells and draws excess water off safely to the roof outlets through its underlying channel system. This water-air household is vital to enable the vegetation to become permanently established.

With 20 cm ZinCo System Substrate, this build-up is suitable for fruit and vegetables such as lettuce, onions, herbs, zucchini, eggplant, squash, cabbage, melons, strawberries and such like. For vegetables and fruits such as tomatoes, green beans, raspberries, blackberries, currants and such like a substrate depth of 28 to 40 cm is recommended. The system substrate “Lawn” is perfect for growing vegetables and herbs due to its considerable organic content.

The amount of fertilizer and irrigation depends on the requirements of the cultivated vegetable species and on local climate conditions. 

Generally speaking, pathways are useful in a vegetable garden. The ZinCo system build-up “Urban Rooftop Farming” provides for drainage throughout the entire green roof, even where there is a combination of surfaces, with the result that roof run-offs can be situated in places where they are least disruptive.

Safety on rooftops

As is the case with all roofs that are going to be used by people, fall-protection measures must be included. ZinCo provides suitable systems and rail solutions, all of which can be installed without penetrating the roof membrane. 

Notes: 

* The weight values stated above are considered to be exclusive of vegetation, see Info Sheet "Green Roof Ballast".