Came across this cool site on Twitter this morning - check out,,,, http://roofcrops.com/ and then check out my Twitter page for more great Urban Greenery. http://twitter.com/kevinsonger
Cheers!
Kevin
Friday, October 15, 2010
Green Roof Irrigation System - Can Nature Support a Green Roof?
Green roof irrigation can be accomplished via recycled rainwater pumped up from a cistern, potable water supply, a combination of recycled rainwater and potable water or from mother nature alone.
Importantly, a green roof should look good and not dry. A dry roof could be a potential fire hazard. Remember how those dry Christmas trees would burn. Of course, some - like Ducks Unlimited - used to burn their green roofs annually - but most of us would not want to burn a green roof.
Other reasons for keeping the plants watered on a roof include;
1. More photosynthetic activity - hence more CO2 uptake and more O2 production,
2. Greater wildlife habitat,
3. Increased nutrient uptake
4. and others.
However there are also valid reasons for not irrigating a roof.
There is a water crisis here in Florida and across the southeastern US. Remember the water wars of Alabama, Georgia and Florida a couple years ago?
50% of all potable water usage is typically consumed via landscape irrigation use! Over withdrawal of aquifer reserves causes sinkholes to develop, wells to go dry and contamination of existing supplies to increase. Native plantings are encouraged and water reuse is a municipal practice on the increase.
Additionally, roof leakage is a serious concern. Creating roofs that can withstand a pond-like body of water is expensive and may cause mold problems.
Mechanical systems, including irrigation systems are always subject to eventual failure. If the irrigation system goes down and the plants are used to significant watering then they may quickly die.
If the system is hooked up to potable water then a flood may occur.
Maybe there are other alternatives. In our opinion, with the rush to implement new stormwater rules and nutrient removal criteria in Florida, the FDEP and certain testing organizations have jumped to the conclusion that the only way a green roof can survive periods of little to no rain is to install irrigation.
A quick review of Florida literature results in few if any research articles considering alternative irrigation methods.
Granted, FDEP's new applicant handbook suggests using rainwater cisterns to recycle rainwater as an irrigation supply for vegetated roofs, however this is but a selling point for their lack of research on non-irrigated systems and also is seriously flawed.
Suggesting rainwater cistern and rainwater recycling is low impact development is wrong. Here in Florida half the year approximately sees only minimal rainfall amounts. Today we are well behind - ten inches or so in our average annual rainfall amounts. That means all those vegetated roof plants so used to plenty of rainwater irrigation from the cistern are now going to have to be irrigated with potable water or reuse water because they are not acclimated to the dry periods. This philosophy is 'Anti-Florida Friendly Landscaping' and is a scam.
Certainly there is room for having stormwater volume and retention on the roof and in cisterns, but this approach cannot be the only sanctioned approach for green roofs in Florida. And because FDEP and various educational institutions are pushing the 'Stormwater Pond on a Roof' approach the Florida Green Roof Industry has to adsorb and deal with the results of those misguided efforts.
Back to green roof irrigation.
Certain nations, such as Australia, New Zealand and others are stepping up and conducting serious research on alternative irrigation systems such as utilization of dew and air humidity.
We should too.
Here in Jacksonville we haven't had rain in three weeks. Our yards and gardens are dry as a bone. I'm sure many of the irrigated green roofs around the state are pumping out potable water (all the stored rainwater is used up by now) to keep the green roof plants irrigated.
Check out the following early morning photos. remember - no rain here in the past three weeks however early morning water is everywhere.
Check out the article on dew collection found at http://www.inhabitat.com/2008/06/26/harvest-water-from-the-air-with-fog-dew-collectors/
Possibly the research topic of an inspiring student or professor, the potential is great and the market place calls out for such inventions.
Green roof design already has taken advantage of the potential of harvesting dew for irrigation, MetroVerde utilizes compact dew catchers around many green roof plants in the field, harvesting significant early morning water for the plants.
Moreover, early morning water is captured on a more efficient basis by green roof plants because high daytime temperatures and evaporation process have not begun in the A.M hours.
So remember, next time someone says "Green Roofs in Florida Must be Irrigated", pause and ask yourself - has this person really done their homework or are they trying to push an agenda past you without your knowledge.
As always, feel free to contact us via email.
Happy Green Roofing,
Kevin!
Importantly, a green roof should look good and not dry. A dry roof could be a potential fire hazard. Remember how those dry Christmas trees would burn. Of course, some - like Ducks Unlimited - used to burn their green roofs annually - but most of us would not want to burn a green roof.
Other reasons for keeping the plants watered on a roof include;
1. More photosynthetic activity - hence more CO2 uptake and more O2 production,
2. Greater wildlife habitat,
3. Increased nutrient uptake
4. and others.
However there are also valid reasons for not irrigating a roof.
There is a water crisis here in Florida and across the southeastern US. Remember the water wars of Alabama, Georgia and Florida a couple years ago?
50% of all potable water usage is typically consumed via landscape irrigation use! Over withdrawal of aquifer reserves causes sinkholes to develop, wells to go dry and contamination of existing supplies to increase. Native plantings are encouraged and water reuse is a municipal practice on the increase.
Additionally, roof leakage is a serious concern. Creating roofs that can withstand a pond-like body of water is expensive and may cause mold problems.
Mechanical systems, including irrigation systems are always subject to eventual failure. If the irrigation system goes down and the plants are used to significant watering then they may quickly die.
If the system is hooked up to potable water then a flood may occur.
Maybe there are other alternatives. In our opinion, with the rush to implement new stormwater rules and nutrient removal criteria in Florida, the FDEP and certain testing organizations have jumped to the conclusion that the only way a green roof can survive periods of little to no rain is to install irrigation.
A quick review of Florida literature results in few if any research articles considering alternative irrigation methods.
Granted, FDEP's new applicant handbook suggests using rainwater cisterns to recycle rainwater as an irrigation supply for vegetated roofs, however this is but a selling point for their lack of research on non-irrigated systems and also is seriously flawed.
Suggesting rainwater cistern and rainwater recycling is low impact development is wrong. Here in Florida half the year approximately sees only minimal rainfall amounts. Today we are well behind - ten inches or so in our average annual rainfall amounts. That means all those vegetated roof plants so used to plenty of rainwater irrigation from the cistern are now going to have to be irrigated with potable water or reuse water because they are not acclimated to the dry periods. This philosophy is 'Anti-Florida Friendly Landscaping' and is a scam.
Certainly there is room for having stormwater volume and retention on the roof and in cisterns, but this approach cannot be the only sanctioned approach for green roofs in Florida. And because FDEP and various educational institutions are pushing the 'Stormwater Pond on a Roof' approach the Florida Green Roof Industry has to adsorb and deal with the results of those misguided efforts.
Back to green roof irrigation.
Certain nations, such as Australia, New Zealand and others are stepping up and conducting serious research on alternative irrigation systems such as utilization of dew and air humidity.
We should too.
Here in Jacksonville we haven't had rain in three weeks. Our yards and gardens are dry as a bone. I'm sure many of the irrigated green roofs around the state are pumping out potable water (all the stored rainwater is used up by now) to keep the green roof plants irrigated.
Check out the following early morning photos. remember - no rain here in the past three weeks however early morning water is everywhere.
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| Green Roof irrigation alternative - collect morning dew |
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| Green Roof irrigation alternative - collect morning dew |
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| Green Roof irrigation alternative - collect morning dew |
Possibly the research topic of an inspiring student or professor, the potential is great and the market place calls out for such inventions.
Green roof design already has taken advantage of the potential of harvesting dew for irrigation, MetroVerde utilizes compact dew catchers around many green roof plants in the field, harvesting significant early morning water for the plants.
Moreover, early morning water is captured on a more efficient basis by green roof plants because high daytime temperatures and evaporation process have not begun in the A.M hours.
So remember, next time someone says "Green Roofs in Florida Must be Irrigated", pause and ask yourself - has this person really done their homework or are they trying to push an agenda past you without your knowledge.
As always, feel free to contact us via email.
Happy Green Roofing,
Kevin!
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Best Living Wall Plants - Florida Living Walls and Urban Green
Click below for a link to the MetroVerde photo gallery of three vines suited for living walls in Florida and across the Southeast U.S.
Two are evergreen perennial and one is frost tender but usually root hardy.
Consideration of living walls as part of any design project is important because living walls;
1. pump fresh oxygen into the air while uptaking CO2,
2. sequester carbon,
3. create beauty and a visual screen,
4. provide wildlife with habitat in the urban core,
5. clean stormwater,
6. and much more.
The three living wall vines recently added tot he MetroVerde photo gallery include;
You can visit the MetroVerde gallery of Living Wall Plants by clicking here.
Email us with questions about Living Walls or Green Roofs!
Two are evergreen perennial and one is frost tender but usually root hardy.
Consideration of living walls as part of any design project is important because living walls;
1. pump fresh oxygen into the air while uptaking CO2,
2. sequester carbon,
3. create beauty and a visual screen,
4. provide wildlife with habitat in the urban core,
5. clean stormwater,
6. and much more.
The three living wall vines recently added tot he MetroVerde photo gallery include;
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| Living Wall Plant - Mikania scandens, Florida Living Walls - MetroVerde |
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| Living Wall Plant - Confederate Jasmine - Florida Living Walls - MetroVerde |
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| Living Wall Plant - Ficus, Creeping Fig - Florida Living Walls - MetroVerde |
Email us with questions about Living Walls or Green Roofs!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Urban Permaculture Pests - Nematodes in the Garden
Here in the hot, humid southeastern United States we have sandy soils in many places.
This combination of sandy soils and warm weather makes a perfect environment for nematodes to thrive.
Nematodes love warm sandy soils. So here in Jacksonville we struggle to keep them at bay each year in the Urban Garden out back.
Their presence is not so bad in the raised beds filled with organic compost.
However in the garden beds tilled into the ground directly, they are a problem.
Jud pointed out yesterday the serious damage nematodes can cause a plant when she pulled up the peppers to make way for winter vegetables.
The following photos show one pepper plant only somewhat infested with nematodes and another badly infested with the parasite.
Judy is a master gardener and volunteers at the local agricultural extension agency. Her training is important and she points out that the fungal associations in organic matter will strangle nematodes - and serve to keep the pests at bay.
Many times I think we look at a poorly preforming vegetable plant and wonder if we'd applied to correct fertilizers or not - because it may be doing so poorly - or maybe watered it enough or too much.
Check the roots! The problem may be nematodes.
If you see swollen knots on your vegetables then add organic matter to the soil and practice crop rotation.
For more information on root-knot nematodes see - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Root-knot_nematode
Kevin
This combination of sandy soils and warm weather makes a perfect environment for nematodes to thrive.
Nematodes love warm sandy soils. So here in Jacksonville we struggle to keep them at bay each year in the Urban Garden out back.
Their presence is not so bad in the raised beds filled with organic compost.
However in the garden beds tilled into the ground directly, they are a problem.
Jud pointed out yesterday the serious damage nematodes can cause a plant when she pulled up the peppers to make way for winter vegetables.
The following photos show one pepper plant only somewhat infested with nematodes and another badly infested with the parasite.
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| Pepper plant roots infested with root-knot nematodes. |
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| Urban Permaculture - Organic Matter Reduces Nematode Impact |
Judy is a master gardener and volunteers at the local agricultural extension agency. Her training is important and she points out that the fungal associations in organic matter will strangle nematodes - and serve to keep the pests at bay.
Many times I think we look at a poorly preforming vegetable plant and wonder if we'd applied to correct fertilizers or not - because it may be doing so poorly - or maybe watered it enough or too much.
Check the roots! The problem may be nematodes.
If you see swollen knots on your vegetables then add organic matter to the soil and practice crop rotation.
For more information on root-knot nematodes see - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Root-knot_nematode
Kevin
Top 5 Reasons for a Green Roof in Florida
Today I want to reiterate the top five reasons for installing a green roof in Florida.
There are actually many advantages to having a vegetated roof and living walls here in the southern portion of the U.S.
However, understanding the main benefits from volumetric green helps in the justification process. In today's economy cost-effectiveness is important, both short-term and long-term.
After working with green roofs here in Florida for years, these are the top five reasons I would recommend to anyone for installing a:
1. lightweight, extensive (less than 4" deep - preferably 2-3" deep),
2. non-irrigated (hey - we have a water crisis in Florida - and you WILL have to have backup potable water if you rely on rainwater cisterns to irrigate a roof),
3. cost-effective green roof
are:
1. Protects underlying roof, extending the life of your underlying roof by decades.
2. Provides significant insulation (the difference is between 40 degrees F and 60 degrees F),
3. Cleans stormwater - especially for those designed to not require fertilization,
4. Creates wildlife habitat and in-turn an IPMS - an Integrated Pest Management System - the lizards and anoles you attract will eat pest insects such as termites, ants, roaches and flies.
5. Cleans stormwater and creates a Sense of Place (beauty).
Other very important reasons include;
1. Sequestering and lowering Carbon Footprint,
2. Uptake of CO2
3. Production of O2
4. Reduction of Heat Island Effect
5. Reduction of Stormwater Runoff volume (in addition to water quality),
6. Increased pedestrian traffic for retail areas,
7. and more (i.e. Green Building Cert Points).
So you see there are many reasons to build a green roof.
What are you waiting for?
For help with system selection and design, please send us an email today!
Happy Green Roofing!
Kevin
There are actually many advantages to having a vegetated roof and living walls here in the southern portion of the U.S.
However, understanding the main benefits from volumetric green helps in the justification process. In today's economy cost-effectiveness is important, both short-term and long-term.
After working with green roofs here in Florida for years, these are the top five reasons I would recommend to anyone for installing a:
1. lightweight, extensive (less than 4" deep - preferably 2-3" deep),
2. non-irrigated (hey - we have a water crisis in Florida - and you WILL have to have backup potable water if you rely on rainwater cisterns to irrigate a roof),
3. cost-effective green roof
are:
1. Protects underlying roof, extending the life of your underlying roof by decades.
2. Provides significant insulation (the difference is between 40 degrees F and 60 degrees F),
3. Cleans stormwater - especially for those designed to not require fertilization,
4. Creates wildlife habitat and in-turn an IPMS - an Integrated Pest Management System - the lizards and anoles you attract will eat pest insects such as termites, ants, roaches and flies.
5. Cleans stormwater and creates a Sense of Place (beauty).
Other very important reasons include;
1. Sequestering and lowering Carbon Footprint,
2. Uptake of CO2
3. Production of O2
4. Reduction of Heat Island Effect
5. Reduction of Stormwater Runoff volume (in addition to water quality),
6. Increased pedestrian traffic for retail areas,
7. and more (i.e. Green Building Cert Points).
So you see there are many reasons to build a green roof.
What are you waiting for?
For help with system selection and design, please send us an email today!
Happy Green Roofing!
Kevin
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Florida Green Roof Plants - Root Architecture Summary
We've been discussing the optimal green roof plant root structure.
There are many adequate types of Florida green roof plant root structures. The variables different structures become a part of include;
1. Hurricane, tropical storm and wind resistance,
2. Rainfall and water absorption,
3. Plant support,
4. System cohesiveness, and
5. other factors.
One of the major advantages of using a mat with a weave, or trays with an inserted weave for roots to grow into is the overall imparted strength of the system.
Laterally growing roots will provide greater anchoring during high winds. This can be an important factor when considering placing a green roof here in Florida - or anywhere with potential for tropical storms and high winds.
Finally, the most important aspect of installing plants on a Florida Green Roof is - don't go tot he nursery and purchase plants that have been grown in a production nursery, pumped full of fertilizers, used to timely irrigation and replete with tender new growth. Instead, look for those plants with a lateral root system that are hardened off and acclimated to the tough environment you are installing them into.
Roofs are harsh places for plants to survive! Remember the 5 H's - High desiccating winds, High heat, Hard Freezes, HOT-HOT-HOT!, High humidity, Hurricanes, and more...
Lateral root growth contributes towards support, enhanced water absorption area, anchoring and a host of other success factors.
Happy Green Roofing!
As always, e-mail me with your questions. Kevin.
There are many adequate types of Florida green roof plant root structures. The variables different structures become a part of include;
1. Hurricane, tropical storm and wind resistance,
2. Rainfall and water absorption,
3. Plant support,
4. System cohesiveness, and
5. other factors.
One of the major advantages of using a mat with a weave, or trays with an inserted weave for roots to grow into is the overall imparted strength of the system.
Laterally growing roots will provide greater anchoring during high winds. This can be an important factor when considering placing a green roof here in Florida - or anywhere with potential for tropical storms and high winds.
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| Florida Green Roof Plant - Good Root Architecture - Lateral Growth |
Roofs are harsh places for plants to survive! Remember the 5 H's - High desiccating winds, High heat, Hard Freezes, HOT-HOT-HOT!, High humidity, Hurricanes, and more...
Lateral root growth contributes towards support, enhanced water absorption area, anchoring and a host of other success factors.
Happy Green Roofing!
As always, e-mail me with your questions. Kevin.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Urban Permaculture - Cajanus cajun, Pigeon Peas - Amazing Plants
Judy bought a pack of Pigeon Peas at Echo in Ft. Myers earlier this year and planted them in our backyard garden.
I was not really aware - or didn't pay any attention to the plants until recently.
Once I did a little research on the I found myself impressed.
Not only are they an excellent bulk food plant and medicinal herb, they are a superb nitrogen fixer - fixing up to 40kg per acre of N! Good for soil.
They grow in the worst of soils and possess thick, strong roots so the species can be used for erosion control.
Some species are hardy to frost.
Grown in the islands, India and Africa - you can find a really delicious Bahamian recipe here - http://www.ehow.com/how_2284131_prepare-bahamian-peas-rice.html
Plant Pigeon Peas!
Kevin
I was not really aware - or didn't pay any attention to the plants until recently.
Once I did a little research on the I found myself impressed.
Not only are they an excellent bulk food plant and medicinal herb, they are a superb nitrogen fixer - fixing up to 40kg per acre of N! Good for soil.
They grow in the worst of soils and possess thick, strong roots so the species can be used for erosion control.
Some species are hardy to frost.
Grown in the islands, India and Africa - you can find a really delicious Bahamian recipe here - http://www.ehow.com/how_2284131_prepare-bahamian-peas-rice.html
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| Urban Permaculture - Pigeon Peas 10' tall |
Plant Pigeon Peas!
Kevin
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Growing Winter Vegetables in the City - Urban Food Permaculture
Winter vegetables, especially greens are special and are one of the reasons many gardeners look forward to cool weather gardening.
Turnip greens, collards, mustards, arugula, Swiss chard, sugar snap peas, onions, chives and more grow vigorously, adding color, taste and health to any meal.
Now is the time to make sure your cool weather garden is started.
You can purchase winter vegetables seeds at all the home improvement stores and nurseries now. Be sure to take home a bag of potting mix and within a few days of planting you will have hundreds of small vegetable starts.
Water the seedlings appropriately, thin when large enough and transplant into your backyard raised bed.
Enjoy the winter vegetables!
Turnip greens, collards, mustards, arugula, Swiss chard, sugar snap peas, onions, chives and more grow vigorously, adding color, taste and health to any meal.
Now is the time to make sure your cool weather garden is started.
You can purchase winter vegetables seeds at all the home improvement stores and nurseries now. Be sure to take home a bag of potting mix and within a few days of planting you will have hundreds of small vegetable starts.
Water the seedlings appropriately, thin when large enough and transplant into your backyard raised bed.
Enjoy the winter vegetables!
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| Winter garden - Judy's Urban Permaculture Garden - October 2010 |
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Urban Permaculture - Growing Food in the City - Cranberry Hibiscus
Hibiscus acetosella, or Cranberry Hibiscus is an important plant for Florida Urban Permaculture.
Below are two photos of the shrubby and delicious plant in Judy's garden.
University of Florida, IFAS recommends the Cranberry Hibiscus as a plant resilient to hurricanes and an excellent screening plant. See http://okeechobee.ifas.ufl.edu/News%20columns/Fasle%20Roselle.htm
Cranberry hibiscus makes great tea - use the leaves - and is a wonderful addition to any salad, including tuna salad. Children love the sour taste.
Finally, the cranberry hibiscus is a beautiful addition to any landscape.
As always, email us with your questions here.
Kevin
Below are two photos of the shrubby and delicious plant in Judy's garden.
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| Florida Urban Permaculture, Hibiscus acetosella, Cranberry Hibiscus |
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| Florida Urban Permaculture, Hibiscus acetosella, Cranberry Hibiscus |
Cranberry hibiscus makes great tea - use the leaves - and is a wonderful addition to any salad, including tuna salad. Children love the sour taste.
Finally, the cranberry hibiscus is a beautiful addition to any landscape.
As always, email us with your questions here.
Kevin
Friday, October 8, 2010
Green Roof and Living Wall Plants Help Us Breath in the Urban Core
Ever notice how alike plant root architecture and our lung's structure are?
There are many similarities.
Importantly, because of the photosynthetic process, plants pump fresh oxygen out into the atmosphere every day. We, in our busy lives tend to forget plants breathe in out waste carbon dioxide generated from within our bodies as we exhale (helping us dispose of massive amounts of a 'waste' gas everyday).
Not only do plants get rid of carbon dioxide they pump out large volumes of fresh oxygen into the atmosphere everyday.
Perfect symbiotic relationship between man and plants. We need their O2 and they need our CO2.
Sometimes we forget how important plants are. We may view them as a necessary thing to have so we can eat vegetables or fruits.
We may tolerate them because of the shade they produce, cursing the autumn leaf litter.
We may enjoy the visual beauty of flowers.
Importantly though, we look to those around us carrying oxygen bottles to help them breathe.
Plants are our oxygen bottles. Without plants we as a race disappear. We will die.
I call the filling of our cities with plants - Restoring Volumetric Green to the Urban Core.
Create a green roof or living wall - you'll be practicing CPR with a Plant.
Happy Green Roofing. Kevin
There are many similarities.
Importantly, because of the photosynthetic process, plants pump fresh oxygen out into the atmosphere every day. We, in our busy lives tend to forget plants breathe in out waste carbon dioxide generated from within our bodies as we exhale (helping us dispose of massive amounts of a 'waste' gas everyday).
Not only do plants get rid of carbon dioxide they pump out large volumes of fresh oxygen into the atmosphere everyday.
Perfect symbiotic relationship between man and plants. We need their O2 and they need our CO2.
 | |
| Living Wall and Green Roof Plants Provide Oxygen to the Urban Core |
We may tolerate them because of the shade they produce, cursing the autumn leaf litter.
We may enjoy the visual beauty of flowers.
Importantly though, we look to those around us carrying oxygen bottles to help them breathe.
Plants are our oxygen bottles. Without plants we as a race disappear. We will die.
I call the filling of our cities with plants - Restoring Volumetric Green to the Urban Core.
Create a green roof or living wall - you'll be practicing CPR with a Plant.
Happy Green Roofing. Kevin
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Green Roof Plants - Root Architecture - Nitrogen Uptake
The SimRoot root architecture 3D model is fascinating and informative.
Though the analysis results are common sense, seeing available nitrogen removed from the uppermost soil levels is important to the capabilities of green roof plants and their capability to clean stormwater.
Watch the following youtube video of SimRoot from Penn State.
You will see the time lapse simulation of the root growth and note the concentrations of available nitrogen decreasing rapidly in the surface area.
More soon!
Happy Green Roofing - Kevin
Though the analysis results are common sense, seeing available nitrogen removed from the uppermost soil levels is important to the capabilities of green roof plants and their capability to clean stormwater.
Watch the following youtube video of SimRoot from Penn State.
You will see the time lapse simulation of the root growth and note the concentrations of available nitrogen decreasing rapidly in the surface area.
More soon!
Happy Green Roofing - Kevin
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Green Roof Plant Root Architecture - Photos and Comments - Florida Green Roof Plants
Yesterday we looked at green roof plant root architecture and the benefits of green roof plants possessing a broad, shallow root structure rather than a narrow, deep root structure. Click here to review the blog post information.
The diagram is posted for review here.
Real life Green Roof Plant photos of the two types of root architecture are posted below:
The photo above typifies the normal nursery container plant root structure - narrow and deep. This is not a good root formation or architecture to begin a green roof with. Note the following photos of a plant grown on a mat. I've cut the mat out of a green roof that had a 2" engineered soil layer. The plant had grown on the roof for approximately 3 years or longer. The green roof system was non-irrigated.
When I removed the mat section I cut out about twice the diameter of the plant crown or habit (form diameter) thinking I'd capture all the root mass. Upon further examination the plant had extended its roots over triple the area I'd cut.
Note how the roots have grown and woven themselves into the mat - providing an anchor against high winds and allowing for use vertically.
The root architecture of plants grown in mats exemplifies the benefits of growing green roof plants in mats. Roots do not like to be bound up with limiting walls. It you do not use mats, then use large tray systems.
With time, green roof plants with access to a large, monolithic and non-sectioned growing space will eventually 'move' to the best spot for their particular needs - on the roof.
The same basic principle applies to living walls. A monolithic fabric with no limiting sectional structure will allow the plant to choose the best spot for successful, long tern growth.
More on Green Roof Plant Root Architecture Soon!
Happy Green Roofing.
Kevin
The diagram is posted for review here.
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| Green Roof Plant Root Architecture Comparison - MetroVerde |
 | |
| Root Architecture - Poor Green Roof Formation |
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| Green Roof Plant - Root Architecture 1 - MetroVerde |
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| Green Roof Plant - Root Architecture 2 - MetroVerde |
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| Green Roof Plant - Root Architecture 3 - MetroVerde |
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| Green Roof Plant - Root Architecture 4 - MetroVerde |
When I removed the mat section I cut out about twice the diameter of the plant crown or habit (form diameter) thinking I'd capture all the root mass. Upon further examination the plant had extended its roots over triple the area I'd cut.
Note how the roots have grown and woven themselves into the mat - providing an anchor against high winds and allowing for use vertically.
The root architecture of plants grown in mats exemplifies the benefits of growing green roof plants in mats. Roots do not like to be bound up with limiting walls. It you do not use mats, then use large tray systems.
With time, green roof plants with access to a large, monolithic and non-sectioned growing space will eventually 'move' to the best spot for their particular needs - on the roof.
The same basic principle applies to living walls. A monolithic fabric with no limiting sectional structure will allow the plant to choose the best spot for successful, long tern growth.
More on Green Roof Plant Root Architecture Soon!
Happy Green Roofing.
Kevin
Living Wall Plants Florida - One Good One Not So Good (Yet Pretty)
Recommended Living Wall Plant Pick of the Day:
Staghorn fern,
Platycerium spp.
Staghorn Fern makes a great living wall plant, especially here in North Florida - but should do well across the southeast. Benefits include:
Non-Recommended Living Wall Plant Pick of the Day:
Japanese Honeysuckle,
Lonicera japonica
I really like this vine but cannot recommend it's use due to the extreme invasive nature of the plant. Watch out if you ever use Japanese Honeysuckle because the plant will literally take over. I've cut it out of the attic, off tall walls and it is almost impossible to get rid of. Yet it is evergreen and beautiful, and will establish a barrier screen very quickly! The plant has been placed on the list of Florida's Invasive Plants - click here for more details.
Choosing the right living wall plant is as important as choosing the right living wall structural system!
Email us with your questions. Kevin.
Staghorn fern,
Platycerium spp.
Staghorn Fern makes a great living wall plant, especially here in North Florida - but should do well across the southeast. Benefits include:
- Evergreen
- Once established does not generally require irrigation
- Good Screening plant
- Grows and multiplies steadily
- Broad, attractive leaves and form
- Does not require significant, if any, soil
- Available in most home improvement stores and nurseries.
 | |
| Living Wall Plant - Staghorn Fern, Platycerium, MetroVerde |
Non-Recommended Living Wall Plant Pick of the Day:
Japanese Honeysuckle,
Lonicera japonica
I really like this vine but cannot recommend it's use due to the extreme invasive nature of the plant. Watch out if you ever use Japanese Honeysuckle because the plant will literally take over. I've cut it out of the attic, off tall walls and it is almost impossible to get rid of. Yet it is evergreen and beautiful, and will establish a barrier screen very quickly! The plant has been placed on the list of Florida's Invasive Plants - click here for more details.
 | |
| Invasive Living Wall Plant - Japanese Honeysuckle - Lonicera japonica - MetroVerde |
Email us with your questions. Kevin.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Plants for Florida Green Roofs - Root Architecture - Rain-Root Zone
Today brought the monthly watering of a 1/4" H2O for the Alliums. Within a matter of hours they were bright green.
We've been working with Resurrection fern also - and I love this plant. Resurrection fern, Polypodium polypodioides, was the first fern in space - going up on a 1997 Space Shuttle Mission to see if the roots would absorb water in a space capsule.
Both of these plants, the Allium and R. fern have unique root characteristics.
We call plant root structure by the name - 'Root Architecture'.
Green roof design has unique root structure and root architecture requirements.
Unless you have a huge potable water or well water source and are going to pump all that water up on a roof to keep plants up there watered, then your green roof plants need to be somewhat drought tolerant.
Certain root architecture patterns support plant acclimation to drought conditions better than others.
Remember, Florida's rainfalls usually are short, afternoon events of 1/2" or less and because rain generally occurs between the hotter months of the year - June - September, there is a tendency for it to evaporate quickly.
Except for hurricanes and tropical storms, rain events in Florida are usually over relatively quickly.
Meaning green roof plants have to scramble to grab the rain water.
Also recall, most green roof plants do not like wet roots (wet feet) so the soil must be well drained.
Proper green roof plant root architecture is crucial for providing a Florida extensive green roof plant with the advantages needed to survive a Florida vegetated roof.
Examine the diagram below showing the root architecture of a green roof plant raised in a one gallon standard nursery container and then a green roof plant raised on a green root mat.
The plant raised on the mat possesses 8 times the amount of Root-Rain surface contact area as the same size plant grown in a nursery container.
So when the afternoon 1/2" rainfall (13mm) event occurs and every drop is important - the green roof plant with the appropriate root architecture will sequester the most water.
More stormwater is captured, runoff is reduced, plants acquire necessary water volumes, plants have less of a tendency to uproot in high winds, and more.
Green Roof Plant Root Architecture is important to the success of a green roof.
Tomorrow - Actual photos of green roof plant root architecture styles.
Email me with questions by clicking here.
Happy Green Roofing! Kevin
We've been working with Resurrection fern also - and I love this plant. Resurrection fern, Polypodium polypodioides, was the first fern in space - going up on a 1997 Space Shuttle Mission to see if the roots would absorb water in a space capsule.
Both of these plants, the Allium and R. fern have unique root characteristics.
We call plant root structure by the name - 'Root Architecture'.
Green roof design has unique root structure and root architecture requirements.
Unless you have a huge potable water or well water source and are going to pump all that water up on a roof to keep plants up there watered, then your green roof plants need to be somewhat drought tolerant.
Certain root architecture patterns support plant acclimation to drought conditions better than others.
Remember, Florida's rainfalls usually are short, afternoon events of 1/2" or less and because rain generally occurs between the hotter months of the year - June - September, there is a tendency for it to evaporate quickly.
Except for hurricanes and tropical storms, rain events in Florida are usually over relatively quickly.
Meaning green roof plants have to scramble to grab the rain water.
Also recall, most green roof plants do not like wet roots (wet feet) so the soil must be well drained.
Proper green roof plant root architecture is crucial for providing a Florida extensive green roof plant with the advantages needed to survive a Florida vegetated roof.
Examine the diagram below showing the root architecture of a green roof plant raised in a one gallon standard nursery container and then a green roof plant raised on a green root mat.
The plant raised on the mat possesses 8 times the amount of Root-Rain surface contact area as the same size plant grown in a nursery container.
 | |
| Green Roof Plant Root Architecture - Florida Extensive Green Roofs - MetroVerde |
More stormwater is captured, runoff is reduced, plants acquire necessary water volumes, plants have less of a tendency to uproot in high winds, and more.
Green Roof Plant Root Architecture is important to the success of a green roof.
Tomorrow - Actual photos of green roof plant root architecture styles.
Email me with questions by clicking here.
Happy Green Roofing! Kevin
Community Gardens - Urban Permaculture Florida - University of North Florida
Over the past year or so the University of North Florida here in Jacksonville has been slowly transforming their parking registration and campus vehicle welcome center into a massive Urban Food Garden.
Using sustainable agriculture practices the students have created a beautiful vegetable patch.
Check out the pictures below!
Kudos to UNF!
For more information you can contact AyoLane -
AyoLane Halusky
Chief Ranger of the Wildlife Sanctuary
Eco-Adventure Coordinator
Eco-Camp Director
University of North Florida
Work: 904-620-1810
Using sustainable agriculture practices the students have created a beautiful vegetable patch.
Check out the pictures below!
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| Urban Community Garden University of North Florida, Jacksonville |
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| Urban Community Garden University of North Florida, Jacksonville |
 |
| Urban Community Garden University of North Florida, Jacksonville |
For more information you can contact AyoLane -
AyoLane Halusky
Chief Ranger of the Wildlife Sanctuary
Eco-Adventure Coordinator
Eco-Camp Director
University of North Florida
Work: 904-620-1810
Green Roof Design Mini-Course - Free from Dave Hillary!
Always wanting to pull together resources on green roofs, I signed up for Dave's Green Roof Mini-Course the other day. I have been very pleased with the information Dave is making available! Easy to understand, he is breaking down the components and systems of Green Roofs and delivering useful information via email on a daily basis.
For example -yesterday's lesson focused on the basics of green roof soils. Each lessons are one page to two pages long and take twenty minutes or so to read through.
I recommend creating an email folder and saving the daily lessons under one file for future reference.
In fact, Dave has written a book - which I have not read, but it is available on his website - about green roofs.
To sign up for Dave's mini-course click here and then after taking some of the lessons, leave feedback on this blog and let me know what you think.
Happy Green Roofing as always and feel free to email me with any questions.
Kevin
For example -yesterday's lesson focused on the basics of green roof soils. Each lessons are one page to two pages long and take twenty minutes or so to read through.
I recommend creating an email folder and saving the daily lessons under one file for future reference.
In fact, Dave has written a book - which I have not read, but it is available on his website - about green roofs.
To sign up for Dave's mini-course click here and then after taking some of the lessons, leave feedback on this blog and let me know what you think.
Happy Green Roofing as always and feel free to email me with any questions.
Kevin
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Urban Permaculture - Harvest Time - Fall Gardens for the City
Tonight the predicted low is 53 degrees F.
Judy has begun removing many of the summer vegetables and food crops and planting cooler weather greens and vegetables.
The hot peppers are always beautiful - growing in our Urban Core garden, Hanging to dry on the porch or in a hot sauce container.
There is not limit to what you can grow in the Urban Core.....
Judy has begun removing many of the summer vegetables and food crops and planting cooler weather greens and vegetables.
The hot peppers are always beautiful - growing in our Urban Core garden, Hanging to dry on the porch or in a hot sauce container.
There is not limit to what you can grow in the Urban Core.....
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| Urban Core Crop - Hot Peppers Grown in Judy's Garden |
Friday, October 1, 2010
Stormwater Modeling for Volume Storage of Green Roofs in Europe
Great Blog article from Piped Up! about volume storage for stormwater and green roofs.
You can view the Piped Up blog here.
The Stormwater Modeling PDF file they refer to can be downloaded here.
It is exciting that green roofs are becoming accepted in the engineering community as a legitimate way to work with site design runoff and stormwater.
Happy Green Roofing!
Kevin
You can view the Piped Up blog here.
The Stormwater Modeling PDF file they refer to can be downloaded here.
It is exciting that green roofs are becoming accepted in the engineering community as a legitimate way to work with site design runoff and stormwater.
Happy Green Roofing!
Kevin
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