Green roofing dates back to several hundred years however the home owners of today who are aware of its benefits are still showing interest in this roofing style. This system of roofing has many benefits such as reduction of storm water runoff, air pollution and noise pollution. These also help in maintaining a low temperature in the house as the vegetation on the roof is capable of absorbing the direct rays and heat from the sun. When the water trapped in the soil evaporates, it also provides a cooling effect to the home. Now the next big question is how to decide what type of vegetation to be used to have a green roof? Studies conducted on plants and their results Various studies have been conducted to determine which plants best suit for green roofing systems during summers. These plants were tested under different conditions like regular watering and rainfall- only watering. It has been found that when receiving rainfall only, certain plants are capable of retaining almost half of the water they receive. On the other hand, when receiving regular watering, they only retained one third of it not showing any significant reduction in water run-off. As a result of these studies, many knowledgeable conclusions were derived. For instance, some plants namely heat aster (Aster ericoides), loosestrife (Lysimachia lanceolata) and flowering spurge (Euphorbia corollata) failed to survive under rainfall- only conditions. Some other species like nodding wild onion (A. Cernuum) and gold moss sedum (S. Acre) did survive under rainfall as the primary source of water but got affected by the sunlight. The adaptive nature of the plants came out to be the most favourable factor for their survival. These plants had shallow roof systems and were more effective at using water during harsh summers. A. Cernuum, for instance, possesses a bulb that helps in storing water for later use. Similarly S. Acre's thick foilage allows it to shut its pores during the day time so as to retain water, which open at night for carrying out photosynthesis. The geographic condition of a place is a very important consideration while selecting a green roofing plant for that particular area. For instance, the Common Yarrow (Achillea Millefolium L.) is a perennial herb that survives in dry soil and can withstand severe drought conditions. The plant comes under the category of ornamental plants that blooms in white or pink and delivers a sweet smell. It also has certain curative applications and has been used in curing fevers, rashes, stomach ailments and haemorrhaging. The plant's foilage also finds application in pollinating bees. Schulte Roofing is a bryan roofing with over 100 years of combined experience. Schulte Roofing originally began in Alvin, TX just outside of Houston, TX and has grown a reputation for delivering the best roof for your budget. If you have any questions about white roofing system for your home, business, or child’s school, contact Schulte Roofing today. For more information about green roofing system and the best plant typesto use in your local region, contact Schulte Roofing. Reference: University of Cincinnati (2012, October 15). Native plant fares well in pilot green roof research study. Science Daily.
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