Its summer, and in many parts of the country that means hot and dry weather, which can be the most stressful part of the year for your Garden Roof. There are a number of signs which can help you gauge the stress level of the vegetation on the roof. If you know what to look for, you can take the proper steps to resolve the issues before the roof sustains long term damage.

Vegetation Signals

WILTING VEGETATION – If the plantings are still getting established, wilting vegetation can mean the roof is receiving too much or too little water. Irrigation settings should be regularly checked, and adjusted accordingly.

RECEDING VEGETATION – Many extensive plants, whether they be sedums, perennials, or native grasses have a tendency to recede when stressed. Though some this is normal for some species during times of stress, if left unchecked it can be fatal for plants on the roof. Extensive vegetation, whose media substrate can be thinner, and thus dry out more quickly and become warmer, and have a disadvantage to their at-grade counterparts. 

BURNT or SINGED VEGETATION – This often occurs either at the perimeters of the roof where vegetation directly adjacent to hardscape - which can carry a higher temperature, or the result of reflective light. If possible, irrigation should be increased in these areas to offset some of the heat. If the area remains an issue, measures should be taken to incorporate vegetation free zones (with cooler temperatures) for the problematic areas.

Media Signals

EXPOSED MEDIA – Areas on the roof may have exposed media because the roof has not yet established, or in the summer and fall months, because the plants have receded or migrated on the roof. While exposed media itself is not particularly damaging, it can lead to pressure from weeds.  It is important to keep the roof weed free, and remove any weeds as soon as possible.

DRY MEDIA – Areas throughout the roof should be checked for moisture. If there is no dampness to the media, irrigation should be increased. Irrigation settings will vary due to region and plant material.

As with all Garden Roof projects, a regular maintenance schedule is key to long term, sustained success. For specific questions and concerns, please contact your Local Hydrotech Representative or the Garden Roof Department.