Photo by: We-Ge / iStock
Vertical landscaping is one of the most effective forms for urban environments. Ivy trees can completely cover the walls of low houses, flowerbeds can be planted on terraces and balconies, and flowerbeds and shrubs should be planted at the lowest level.
Two years ago, Russia adopted a new standard — GOST R 58875-2020 ’Vegetated and maintained roofs of buildings and structures’. This form of landscaping is popular in Europe and, in my opinion, we could also actively apply it.
An initiative group from St Petersburg set up an urban gardening club back in 2001. People made an agreement with the housing cooperative of their building and planted a garden on the roof: they planted decorative plants and made a small vegetable garden with strawberries, herbs and vegetables.
It would seem that St. Petersburg is a northern city. But it all worked out. The roof was very popular, and the European press even wrote about it. But after the death of the woman who tended the garden, no one continued her endeavour. I’m sure there could have been more such roofs if the urban planning documents had allowed for green spaces on flat roofs.
It is also very important when developing residential areas to maintain a comprehensive view of the water and green framework, as people need elements of the natural environment to live comfortably. This is why, when engaging in green spaces, one should not forget about cleaning and improving natural water bodies and waterfronts.
Cover photo: niuniu / iStock
Comments