Planting on Structures
Planting on structures is where plants are on top of built structures such as basement car parks, podiums, roofs and walls. Planting on structures can provide amenity, improve air quality and microclimate, and reduce direct energy use and stormwater runoff. It can also supplement deep soil planting on sites where opportunities for this are limited or restricted, e.g. in high density areas.
Common ways of planting on structures include green roofs, green walls, raised planters and roof top gardens. Plants grown in these situations are subject to a range of environmental stressors that affect both the health and vigour of the plants. Designing soil profiles, irrigation and systems that provide adequate oxygen, water and nutrients is crucial for plant survival.
Green walls and facades make positive contributions to the environment and to urban amenity more generally. They can also improve the sustainability performance of a building
Appropriate soil profiles are provided.
Design Guidance
Structures are reinforced for additional saturated soil weight.
Soil volume is appropriate for plant growth, considerations include:
• modifying depths and widths according to the planting mix and irrigation frequency
• free draining and long soil life span
• tree anchorage
Minimum soil standards for plant sizes should be provided in accordance with Table Minimum soil standards for plant types and sizes.
Minimum soil standards for plant types and sizes
Note: The above has been calculated assuming fortnightly irrigation. Any sub-surface drainage requirements are in addition to the above minimum soil depths.
Planting on structures are a way to create open space, in particular where opportunities for deep soil zones are restricted
Plant growth is optimised with appropriate selection and maintenance.
Design Guidance
Plants are suited to site conditions, considerations include:
• drought and wind tolerance
• seasonal changes in solar access
• modified substrate depths for a diverse range of plants
• plant longevity
A landscape maintenance plan is prepared. Irrigation and drainage systems respond to:
• changing site conditions
• soil profile and the planting regime
• whether rainwater, stormwater or recycled grey water is used
Roof top planting requires careful plant selection and an understanding of the local climate conditions
Planting on structures contributes to the quality and amenity of communal and public open spaces.
Methods for planting on structures include raised planters and
a mix of shallow and deep profile garden beds
Design Guidance
Building design incorporates opportunities for planting on structures. Design solutions may include:
• green walls with specialised lighting for indoor green walls
• wall design that incorporates planting
• green roofs, particularly where roofs are visible from the public domain
• planter boxes
Note: structures designed to accommodate green walls should be integrated into the building facade and consider the ability of the facade to change over time.
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