Terrace Gardening: Grow Vegetables on Your Rooftop

Before anything else, protect the roof from water damage. Place containers on raised stands, bricks or trays so water drains freely and does not sit on the surface. Consider waterproofing the terrace to prevent seepage into the rooms below. A little care here saves major problems later.

Weight matters on a rooftop, so choose light containers such as grow bags, plastic pots and wooden boxes rather than heavy cement pots. Every container must have drainage holes. Grow bags are especially popular because they are light, cheap and drain well.

A blend of soil, compost and cocopeat is light enough for a roof yet rich and moisture-retentive. Avoid filling containers with only heavy garden soil, which becomes compacted and waterlogged.

Rooftops receive intense sunlight and strong wind, which dry out plants quickly. Use shade nets during peak summer to protect sensitive crops, and arrange taller plants to shelter smaller ones. Position sun-loving crops where they get the most light.

Tomato, chilli, brinjal, okra, leafy greens, beans and herbs all do well on a terrace. Climbing gourds thrive on a trellis along the parapet wall, making good use of vertical space.

Because containers exposed to sun and wind dry out fast, check them daily in summer and water as needed. Replenish nutrients with compost every few weeks, since frequent watering washes nutrients out of containers.