Some important questions answers on terrace gardens by experts.
How feasible is it to have a terrace garden in Metro cities homes or apartments?
Terrace gardens do not occupy much space. In most cases they are created in small open spaces, balconies and verandas of an apartment or on the terrace in the case of a villa.
It is always advisable to consult a structural engineer who will check the load bearing capacity of the roof in the building as the soil, gravel and plants in the terrace garden will increase the load on the balcony considerably and there chances of seepage.
How popular have terrace gardens become?
In the last few years, we notice that home buyers are seeking green spaces in their homes and are aware of the benefits of terrace gardens. Green spaces give customers the opportunity to integrate with nature, greenery adds warmth and freshness in living areas fusing the indoors with outdoors.
What are the benefits of terrace gardens?
Apart from aesthetic benefits, terrace gardens serve the following purposes:
-- Insulates the building against heat and cold
-- Reduces indoor temperature by 6- 8 degree
-- Reduces sound pollution
-- Increases the amount of oxygen in air
-- Filters air borne particles from air
-- Controlling storm water runoff, erosion and pollution
-- Saves electricity as AC consumption reduces
Do terrace gardens contribute towards the decor of a home? How so?
A terrace garden can look like a paved terrace area, a manicured lawn or a water feature.
A terrace garden can also be decorated with different elements as per requirements and taste. It is a great way to cultivate a hobby like growing vegetables and fruits or trying your hand on bonsai. Terrace gardens are a wonderful means for increasing the living space in any house, you can sit and eat there, kids can play, or one can simply pull out a recliner and take in the quiet landscape or the engaging views beyond. The plants themselves can add that dash of colour that a very muted interior scheme may need. In some cases, the interior decor could be focused towards the terrace.
What are the characteristic requirements before one starts working on their own terrace garden?
Terrace garden can be created on any kind of buildings, like residential, apartments, commercial buildings and IT parks. Basic requirements to build terrace gardens include :
a) Selection of space: One has to bear in mind that the area selected to build a terrace garden should have a slight slope, so it can drain water easily and has the capacity to bear the load. That apart, the area should be well lit as sunlight is integral to the growth of the foliage.
b) Water proofing: As the main element of a terrace garden comprises of watering plants and maintaining water in the soil to keep it wet, it is important that the best quality water proofing materials are selected.
c) Maintenance: It is best for one to select the apt foliage and sunlit balconies, water plants everyday or install a drip system for your terrace garden to ensure longevity. Plants that are best suited for terrace gardens include fibrous plants as these are light in weight and the roots of these plants prevent erosion.