Have you seen the new sub-irrigated planters at Central Library?

They’re a demonstration container garden from Rooftop Roots – a nonprofit  that plants, supports, and advances the establishment of gardens on unutilized, urban rooftop space in the DC area. Planters like ours allow people in urban areas to use rooftops, balconies, and patios to grow vegetables in a healthy and environmentally friendly way.

The vegetables we’re growing will be added to our harvest for AFAC’s Plot Against Hunger program.

Rooftop Roots planters are made from recycled food-grade 5-gallon buckets:

Using a moisture barrier on top to reduce evaporation and a water reservoir below, these planters are more efficient in using water, soil, and fertilizers than conventional top-down watering techniques, as the plant’s roots draw resources only when needed, effectively operating as a self-watering system.

 

This project is made possible by Rooftop Roots, AFAC, and the Arlington County Extension Service.