If you have a home in the crowded city and have access to a little bit of roof or balcony, it's a perfect opportunity to turn an otherwise useless space into a beautiful garden. These areas are a unique challenge for landscaping and garden ideas because they will most likely be hammered by the wind as well as beaten by sun. And then again, with some good plans and planting ideas, you can design some screening to block the wind as well as make some shade for sun protection.
The first step in planning a garden like this is to research how the building is constructed. Find out what the roofing material comprises, or, if a balcony, how it is constructed. Balconies and roof space can be very small areas and if they're required hold potted plants, furniture, and other decor, they should be able to support a considerable amount of weight. So that there are no leaks, the roof under small garden ideas on roofs and balconies should be completely water proof. Good drainage is also important to move excess moisture and water from the roof. There also needs to be safe access to the roof if it is to be easily enjoyed.
Around your roof garden there will likely be poles or wires. These can be camoflaged with careful planting. Taller container plants can also screen your neighbor's view and form a green barrier while smaller pots full of flowers will add some color. When designing any small spaces like small gardens, patio ideas, and courtyards, try not to crowd the small amount of space that you have. A nice view should be framed rather than destroyed by a rooftop jungle as well as making sure there is room for somewhere to sit and enjoy it.
Long wooden planters are preferable over using a lot of small pots as it will spread the load out more evenly. Remember to use a soil-moistening product in the container mix, which will help with maintenance, as plants in a mix containing these products require less watering. If the roof is unable to hold much weight, you may also consider watering with hydroponics. And since hydroponically grown plants only need liquid and a light base, the pots and plants don't weigh as much as pots full of soil.
You may also consider raising a small worm colony in your balcony or roof garden. This can produce some rich organic soil for your plants while also cutting back on your garbage and waste.
