Though green roof maintenance will vary with the complexity of the system design, these are the general guidelines we follow for our extensive green roofs.
Establishment period (first 6 to 8 weeks after installation)
Water plants using garden sprinkler for about 45 minutes during early morning hours. Avoid watering during afternoon or evening hours. Water every other day until plant roots are established then gradually wean plants from supplemental watering.
Pull errant weeds as necessary. Avoid walking directly on sedum plants when possible.
Monitor plants for bird and pest damage and address using natural control methods when possible. Take caution when using chemical or natural remedies that may adversely effect surrounding environments.
General Maintenance
Water plants when rainfall drought exceeds three to four weeks.
Pull errant weeds as necessary, typically twice annually.
Provide slow release fertilizer like Osmocote once a year for the first five years. Beyond the initial five years monitor the nutrient level of the engineered soil and supplement if needed. Typically no additional feeding is required beyond the initial five years.
Monitor plants for bird and pest damage and address using natural control methods when possible. Take caution when using chemical or natural remedies that may adversely effect surrounding environments.
Monitor roof drainage systems for possible obstruction from plants or engineered soil. Keep drainage systems and roof access free from plant overgrowth.
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