In this modern world, the availability of land is diminishing because of the increasing population. Thus, a substantial solution is essential. Traditional farming practices may cause deforestation, environmental degradation, pollution, and many health issues. So, an alternative technique is a rooftop plantation, where vegetables are cultivated on the roofs of buildings.
In this blog, we will discuss the concept of Rooftop farming in India, the conditions required for it, rooftop farming advantages, etc.
Rooftop farming is like an artificial green area developed on the terrace of commercial, industrial and residential buildings. Rooftop farming, when executed with proper planning and innovative structural designs, results in the formation of a flourishing plantation in limited space. It offers shade or shelter, or simply a green area on the terrace.
The popular rooftop farming ideas are vegetable gardens, ornamental gardens, and many others. Vegetables like tomatoes, green chilli, potato, capsicum, garlic, etc., can be grown in rooftop farming.
Rooftop gardens may be more exposed to extreme environmental heat than those on the ground. The more environmental heat levels in the urban areas can be dangerous for the growing plants. In this condition, it is recommended to invest in a thin shade cloth or netting to provide some protection to your crops. The terrace surface also becomes a critical aspect as the dark surface absorbs more sunlight and produces a hot or arid environment.
The hot conditions can quickly dry out the plants. Thus, this issue can be sorted in many ways. The primary purpose is to provide good water retention capacity in the soil.
The rooftop plantation should be established with good water retention. The soil should be amended with vermiculite in small amounts for good water retention capacity.
Self-water containers can also be used to keep the soil moist. These containers don’t require as much attention as traditional water containers.
A layer of mulch can also be used and evenly spread over the soil surface to care for moisture loss.
Various advantages of practicing rooftop farming are:
Rooftop farming is an organic type of farming, which often contains no insecticides or pesticides, unlike traditionally produced farm products. Moreover, rooftop farming is done under the Central Business District (CBD), which allows the picking up and delivery of freshly made products in a minimum time. Thus, you will get the desired produce that is fresh and healthy.
The rooftop farming in India requires the following steps to get started:
The below-mentioned points show the disadvantages of rooftop farming in India:
Rooftop farming is the practice of building a green area on the terrace of a commercial, industrial or residential building.
Yes, growing fruits and vegetables on the rooftop is profitable.
A rooftop farm should be built with proper planning and innovative structural designs, offering shade or shelter, a play space, or a green area on the terrace.
Yes, rooftop farming is safe if practiced with proper safety measures.
Rooftop farming has been practiced since 1969.