Best Container Plants for Lush Foliage on a Roof Terrace?
Asked by PlantWhisperer42
Hey everyone! I'm working on transforming my roof terrace into a mini urban jungle, but since the decking is aluminum, I can't plant directly in the ground. I'm on the lookout for outdoor plants that offer impressive foliage coverage and thrive in containers. I'd prefer evergreens and perennials since they're usually lower maintenance, but I'm open to annuals as well. It would be a bonus if the plants could help attract pollinators or support the local insect population. My terrace gets full sun all day, and currently, I've got some elephant ear corms and cherry laurels planted as a privacy screen. Also, I bought around 450kg of blended topsoil and want to confirm if it's good to use as-is in my planters without needing any improvements for drainage or nutrients. Thanks for any advice you can share!
Answers
For your terrace, consider setting up an automatic watering system for your evergreens since they require a lot of water in summer. You'll want to check out nurseries that cater to full sun and drought-tolerant plants. I recommend looking at Beth Chatto's, Crocus, and J. Parker's for a great selection!
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Regarding your topsoil, it's not really meant for container planting, but if your planters are large, you should be good. Just keep an eye on drainage, and you might want to mix in some organic compost to enhance it. Be cautious with adding gravel or sand, as too much can alter the soil's composition.
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Geraniums and pelargoniums are fantastic options—they are fast-growing and some even have aromatic leaves. For taller plants, consider adding Trachycarpus fortunei, as it's hardy and tolerates windy spots. Yuccas, agapanthus, and Mediterranean herbs like lavender and rosemary could also thrive in your sunny space. If you have room, Phoenix canariensis is also a great choice!
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PlantLover33: Great suggestion! I’ve also had luck with banana plants (Musa bajoo) for breathtaking foliage. Just ensure you have proper drainage in your pots!