I'm trying to set up a rooftop garden and I'm stuck on what kind of soil to use. Regular garden soil seems way too heavy, and I've read somewhere it can cause drainage issues or even structural problems. But then again, if it's too light, won't it dry out super fast? I'm kinda lost here...anyone have experience with this or maybe some tips on what works best?
Regular garden soil can be heavy, true, but honestly, I've used a mix of regular soil with perlite and compost on my rooftop for years without any structural issues. Maybe the key is just not going overboard with depth? Just something to think about...
I've gotta say, depth definitely matters—good point there. But honestly, I'd still be cautious about regular garden soil on rooftops. Sure, mixing in perlite and compost helps lighten things up, but regular soil tends to compact over time, especially after heavy rains. I've seen more than a few rooftop gardens turn into mini swimming pools after a storm because drainage wasn't quite right... and trust me, tenants aren't usually thrilled about rooftop ponds (unless they're ducks).
Personally, I'd lean more towards a lighter mix with peat moss or coco coir instead of regular soil. It drains better, stays fluffy longer, and it's way easier on your building's structure in the long run. Plus, hauling bags of heavy garden soil up flights of stairs? Not exactly my idea of a good time.
But hey, if your setup's been working for years without issues, maybe you've cracked the code. Just keep an eye on that drainage—your downstairs neighbors will thank you later.
Good call on coco coir—it's been a lifesaver for me too. But one thing I've noticed is it dries out pretty fast, especially in the hotter months. Have you had any issues keeping moisture levels consistent? I've been thinking about setting up a drip irrigation system or something similar, but I'm worried it'll be another maintenance headache...
Coco coir's definitely handy, but like mentioned, it dries out quick. I've seen rooftop setups get wrecked after heavy storms because the soil mix was too light and got washed away or shifted around. I'd suggest mixing in some perlite and compost to balance drainage and moisture retention. Also, drip irrigation isn't as complicated as it sounds—once set up, it's pretty low-maintenance and worth the effort to keep things stable, especially if your area's prone to unpredictable weather.
