How to Start a Rooftop Garden in Pakistan

Pakistan’s cities are growing rapidly, and only a few have enough parks. In this situation, many citizens want to set up their own gardens on their rooftops. If you are thinking of starting a rooftop garden in Pakistan, you need to focus on a few aspects.

• Roof preparation
• Purchasing the plants
• Safe transportation of plants and other accessories
• Decoration 

Step-By-Step Process: Starting a Rooftop Garden in Pakistan 

Step 1: Preparing Your Roof

You should check your roof’s strength and waterproofing ability. You should use

thermoplastic membranes to seal your roof against water. 

Step 2: Learn about Building Regulations

Some towns or housing associations have their own building regulations. So, check if it’s allowed by your apartment building management or housing authority to set up a rooftop garden.

Step 3: Assess the Strength of Your Roof

You should hire an architect to check the strength of your roof. Put heavy pots near supporting walls rather than the center of the slab. 

Step 4: Choose Appropriate Plants

You should look for plants that can tolerate heat and humidity. Some ideal rooftop garden plants include Butterfly Weeds, Lavender flowers, Stonecrops, False Indigo, and Coneflowers.

You can also add windbreakers to your garden to protect your plants from the heat of the sun and winds.

Step 5: Resolve Sewerage Issues

When watering your plants, water should not run out onto the street. We recommend adding another pipe from the drainage spout attached to the gutters underneath to properly drain all the water from your garden.

Pro Tip: Use artificial grass that doesn't need water.

Step 6: Carefully Plan Your Garden

Take help from a gardening expert to create a layout of your garden, considering the space available and the design limitations that you have.

You can choose from one of the many design options:

• Simply use a few plant pots
• Use artificial or real grass
• Beautify your garden with some furniture
• Establish windbreakers and privacy curtains
• Set up a barbecue space for family events

There are a few other things that you might want to add, such as a fresh produce corner for your kitchen, additional space for your guests, a serene place to relax, etc. Discuss your requirements and desires with your expert and plan your garden with them to accommodate those things.

Step 7: Buying the Plants

You should choose plants that can grow in all weather. If not, then establish shady areas for plants that can’t bear harsh weather conditions. Apart from that, always go for smaller plants as they don’t dig their roots into your ceiling. 

Step 8: Look for A Water Source

You can link the water pipe of your house to the roof if your garden is just above the floor you live on. Otherwise, you will need to make water pipe arrangements from the nearest source. You can also use a can to water your plants.

Step 9: Buy Containers

As you are setting up your garden on your rooftop, you will need multiple containers for your plants. You should buy lightweight wooden or plastic pots rather than ceramic ones to not overburden your roof.

Step 10: Pick the Correct Soil Mix

Raw field soil condenses easily in heat. You should make a lightweight combination of various types of soil to ensure nutrient retention and complete drainage.

Decorating Your Garden

If you are an aesthetic person or intend to host some guests in your garden, you should decorate it as well to make it presentable and visually appealing. You can embellish and beautify your garden in a variety of ways.

• Add folding furniture if you have the space available. But place it in the shade to protect it from the sun.
• Leave space to walk between the pots in your garden. Incorporate flowering vines and creepers on the walls. Use vertical gardening techniques to make your garden appear spacious.
• Pick a focal point for your garden to make it more attractive. It can be a water fountain or a covered seating area.

Get Suitable Rooftop Garden Plants from Gulab.pk

Now that you are all set for establishing your own rooftop garden, you will start looking for suitable plants. Gulab.pk is one of the most trusted online nurseries in Pakistan. You can find a variety of seeds and plants in their collection that can easily thrive on roofs at affordable rates.