describes the historical development of both commercial and small domestic examples from all over the world. It also provides an introduction to the practical techniques required for constructing green roofs, explaining the weight-bearing considerations, materials, substrates, draining layers, modular systems, and plants (including plant choice, which are suitable for extreme conditions encountered on roofs: drought, high light intensity and wind).
Other chapters explain the ins and outs of how planting on walls requires completely different techniques. Loads of clear inspirational colour photographs and drawings, and an excellent plant directory.
The February/March issue of Mother Earth News also had a broader article on green roofing which spells out the costs and benefits of everything from slate to metal to "green" roofs. Unfortunately, the article is not one that's available online.
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