The Sky’s the Limit: Maalbeek’s Vegetable Rooftop Garden

The Vegetable Rooftop Garden in Maalbeek, Brussels, was a notable stop during the European Landscape Contractors Association's (ELCA) 60th anniversary professional excursion. Situated a top of Colruyt grocery store, this 2,190 square meter garden is an inspiring example of urban greening that blends sustainability, community engagement, and innovative agricultural practices.

Rooftop gardens like Maalbeek’s play a crucial role in transforming unused urban spaces into productive green areas. They help mitigate the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and enhance biodiversity. By reducing the need for food transportation, these gardens contribute to lowering carbon footprints while offering fresher, locally grown produce to city residents​. 

One place – many uses

This rooftop garden not only produces vegetables for the local community but also serves as a hub for education and urban agricultural experimentation. It hosts workshops and research programs that raise awareness about sustainable practices and encourage people to engage in gardening, even in densely populated areas​. 

It’s all about technologies and know-how

Key elements of successful rooftop gardens include proper planning and infrastructure. Assessing the roof’s structural capacity is essential to ensure it can support the weight of soil, plants, and water. Efficient irrigation systems, like drip irrigation, help conserve water while providing consistent moisture. Using lightweight soil mixtures and self-watering containers enhances plant health and reduces maintenance​. 

Maalbeek’s garden maximizes space through innovative techniques such as vertical gardening with trellis panels and hanging planters. Raised beds further improve soil drainage and nutrient management. Incorporating renewable energy, like solar-powered irrigation systems, can enhance the sustainability of rooftop gardens​. 

Inspiration

The Maalbeek Vegetable Rooftop Garden exemplifies how urban spaces can be repurposed to foster sustainability and community wellbeing. Its success offers a model for similar projects in cities worldwide, promoting greener urban living and more sustainable food systems​.

Sources

 Edible Rooftop Garden: Creating A Green Oasis In The Sky – Gardening Pleasure 

ELCA | European Landscape Contractors Association 

Pictures in article from:

• Krinkels nv, Belgium 
• Wim De Wulf
• Cedric Rummens