There has been a growing interest in growing food on green roofs over the last few years. From New York to China, urban farmers are reaching for the sky to produce produce. And London is also joining the ranks of city rooftop farm centres.
I visited this roof in Dalston at the Print House whilst doing one of special Ecosystem Services and Living roof courses back in September. The Print House is run by the Bootstrap Company. On the roof is a number of raised beds, full of food and flowers. The sunflowers in September stood tall against the grey sky and the cabbages were coming on nicely.
I was less impressed with the sort of astro-turf that covered the majority of the roof. As I understand it they are seeking funding to give the roof a full green roof makeover. Let’s hope they get the money and the community farmers of Dalston can increase both the area for productive growing and also increase the flowers and other features that will encourage wildlife in the heart of Hackney.