RE: rooftop gardens

H* A*

Rachel:

The major elements of rooftop gardening are:

1)Really knowing the structural integrity and weightbearing capacity of your
roof. Before you think of starting a roof garden get a copy of the
building's plans, consult an engineer who can interpret thos plans and
examine the roof before you start. When you know here the structural beams
are, and what the roof can hold safely ( including your weight) then you can
plan intelligently. 

2) Most roof top gardeners in NYC garden in containers. You seriously do not
want the root systems of any plants growing into the building. Also
remember, dirt has two weights...dry and wet. Be sure that you have a place
for the water to go. 

3) Remember that wind is an issue. Nothing should be allowed to blow away.
Remember, Cyrano was killed by a flower pot.

4) May I suggest that you consult with the architectural and horticultural
depts at Georgetown and William and Mary? I'm sure that there are both
architectural and botanical grad students who might be of service for a few
decent meals and strong drink

Good luck,

Adam Honigman
Bowne Publishing Division
345 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10014
Tel: (212) 414-8933
Fax: (212) 229-3421
email: adam.honigman@bowne.com

 .

> -----Original Message-----
> From:	Amerigrow@aol.com [SMTP:Amerigrow@aol.com]
> Sent:	Thursday, January 06, 2000 3:30 PM
> To:	community_garden@mallorn.com
> Subject:	[cg] rooftop gardens
> 
> 
> I am working with a neighborhood center which is interested in starting a 
> rooftop garden.  We are looking for fact sheets on the environmental
> benefits 
> of rooftop gardens, articles about the gardens, and any advice that has to
> do 
> with starting them.  Thanks for your help!
> 
> Rachel Thomas
> 
> Garden Resources of Washington
> 1419 V St. NW
> Washington, DC  20009
> 202-234-0591
> 
> _______________________________________________
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