Emilson, T. & K. Rolf, 2005, Comparison of establishment methods for extensive green roofs in southern Sweden, in: Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, ,
- Author : Emilson, T. & K. Rolf
- Year : 2005
- Journal/Series : Urban Forestry & Urban Greening
- Pages : 103-111
- Abstract in English : Green roofs are becoming increasingly popular in many countries. The interest for green roofs has been related to their capacity to reduce stomwater runoff volumes and peak flows, mitigate urban heat island effects and cool buildings during summer months. The most common technique for establishment of these extensive green roofs in Sweden has been using prefabricated vegetation mats. Our study investigated how establishment of green roofs in Sweden was influenced by the establishment method, substrate composition and species mixture and whether onsite-construction was a possible alternative. Thin extensive systems can generally be built without making any adjustments to buildings and this reduces the cost of the system and increases the number of possible roofs than can be vegetated. A fundamental part of the success of an extensive green roof installation is connected to the establishment and development of the plant material. Green roofs can either be established onsite or by bringing prefabricated vegetation to the roof. On-site construction is generally achieved by pumping or lifting the substrate onto the roof and then distributing shoots, seed or plug plants. In Sweden, green roofs are mainly applied as prefabricated vegetation mats, which is generally one of the most expensive ways to vegetate buildings. The overall aims of this study were: to describe the effects of establishment method, substrate composition and species mixture on vegetation performance and spontaneous establishment by moss and vascular species; and to test whether on-site construction could be used for establishment of green roofs in southern Sweden. This research shows that on-site establishment is a functional alternative to vegetation mats when establishing green roofs in Sweden.
- Comments/Notes : KEYWORDS: green roofs, on-site construction; Crassulaceae, Sedum, costs.