∞Green Roofs Are Going To The Dogs∞

No its not figurative, we literally mean they are going to the dogs. Dog houses that is!

Green Roofs have been spreading world wide as a great way insulate homes, improve water retention, and keep that retained water cleaner. Unfortunately for most of us it means a big investment, and some serious load bearing adjustments. On the smaller scale though, it is easy enough to get the beautiful garden space at far more manageable height and cost. Find a friend or gather the family and make a weekend out of renovating your dogs home into an insulated, eye catching, dream house.

On top of being good for you dog in the hot days of summer, or the child night of fall, a green roof dog house can even provide drinking water that is cleaner then any man made filtering system can provide. Set up your green roof drainage over a bowl or bucket and you've got that chore covered.

Don't have a dog or spouse that would use such an out door retreat, but still want to try your hand at Green Roofing? Try a bird house. Its the same concept, but provides a new look to an old idea. Invite beautiful birds to live near you home, and provide them with a cool and comfortable living space. These bird houses are a great way to get children involved in the green movement, and educate them on gardening, while at the same time having some fun. Take a look here for a quick way to modify your current bird house, or to get some ideas for building your own.

Click Here --> http://gardentherapy.ca/green-roof-birdhouse-tutorial/
Click Here --> http://www.urbangardensweb.com/2010/07/16/are-green-roofs-for-the-birds/

Most commonly in Green Roofs you will see Sedum(Stonecrop). These plants tend to do very well in the small, low moisture space.  However some cascading plants, grasses and annuals will also do well in the green roof setting, depending on the exposure, space, and soil depth. Find what words best for you, the opportunities are endless. Check out your local nurseries and explain the application, most often they will be able to point you in the right direction.

If your not sure were to start though, here are some neat looking sedum to try. (Plants referenced from Eagle Lake Nurseries http://www.eaglelakenurseries.com/index.php)

Tricolor Stone Crop
Sedum spurium "Tricolor"

Perennial - Partial Shade to Full Sun
Zone: 3a
Height: 6"
Spread: 18"

Frosty Morn Stonecrop
Sedum "Frosty Morn"

Perennial - Partial Shade to Full Sun
Zone: 3a
Height: 27"
Spread: 23"

Angelina Stonecrop
Sedum rupestre "Angelina"

Perennial - Partial Shade to Full Sun
Zone: 3a
Height: 6"
Spread: 15"