You don’t need a garden or a balcony to take action on climate change and contribute to sustainability and urban biodiversity in our city.
Here are six tips for growing your own green roof, wall or facade at your home, workplace or community facility.
1. Plan with care
Seek expert advice to ensure your project is designed to bear weight, be waterproof and be environmentally sustainable. Where possible, use recycled and locally-produced materials.
Remember that the quality of your design, construction and maintenance will play a factor in the lifespan of your project. Some green roofs in Europe have been in place for more than 75 years.
2. Pick your plants
Research what types of plants or trees will be most suitable for your project, and our future climate. We’re doing the same across the city.
3. Be creative
Think outside the box. Even surfaces with steep slopes, limited access, tiles, deep shade or other challenging features may have the potential for greening. Speak to an expert to plan your project.
4. Be water wise
Explore alternative sources of irrigation, such as harvested and recycled water. Irrigation is required for all green walls and recommended for most green facades and roofs, depending on your plant choice.
5. Save money
Consider ways that your green roof, wall or facade could work for you, such as shielding your property from the elements. You could look at including solar panels to make your design even more cost-effective and sustainable.
6. Get support
Costs will vary from project to project. You may wish to explore opportunities for support through channels like our Urban Forest Fund or the Sustainable Australia Fund.
Thank you to the Growing Green Guide for helping us compile these tips.
Stay tuned for news about exciting new green roofs opening around the city, which aim to inspire more similar projects and enable further research into biodiversity, water, climate and wellbeing.
To find out more, visit Greening The City.
