HOW TO
MAINTAIN A
GREEN ROOF?

Green roofs do require some maintenance to ensure that the diversity of species remain established and can thrive.

The first year will require more maintenance than once established to ensure a long lasting roof. Monthly cursory checks and two formal visits a year, one in Spring and one in Autumn will help to keep the roof looking its best. During a hot summer with little rainfall, watering little and often would be essential, but with care not to drench the sedum.

At Sedum Green Roof our maintenance philosophy is little and often rather than much and seldom.

For larger, sloped and harder to access roofs we recommend a timed irrigation system, but we can advise on this.

Maintenance of a sedum is lower compared to other green roof systems such as wildflower. We recommend you view your sedum monthly and as a minimum a Spring and Autumn visit so basic weeding, health checks and fertilising can take place. Every couple of years a “trim” may be necessary. The cuttings can be left in-situ as these will root again and thicken the vegetation. Below is our Season Guide to Maintaining your sedum.

DOWNLOAD MAINTENANCE GUIDE

SPRING

Removal of unwanted plant material, ie grasses, mosses and clover etc.
If moss is present we recommend a product called Viano MO Bacter Organic Lawn Fertiliser and Moss Killer.
Replacement of any naturally failed plants
Application of a nutrient source. (We recommend a 6 month slow release fertiliser such as Miracle Gro is applied in April-May)
Inspection of rainwater outlet chambers and surrounding vegetation breaks.
Replenishment of any areas of settled substrate.
SUMMER

During dry periods watering little and often, either early in the morning or late in the evening (not in sunshine) will help the sedum and prevent it from turning red (indication of stress).
AUTUMN

A light fertilise using a granulated, slow release option (Early September at the latest) to give the plants some residual energy and nutrients over winter.
Removal of dead flower heads (if desired). Only a light trim is required.
Removal of unwanted plant material, ie grasses, mosses and clover etc.
Inspection of rainwater outlet chambers and surrounding vegetation breaks.
Replenishment of any areas of settled substrate.
WINTER

No visit needed after the first frost. The plants may turn red and will then become dormant until springtime.