The Rooftop Garden Climbs Down

They may sound like a piece of Willie Wonka’s chocolate factory. In fact, they are the latest development in green roof technology. Like green roofs, edible walls include a thick layer of vegetation on the outside of buildings to provide insulation and reduce heating and electricity costs.

But unlike green roofs — and their vertical cousins, green walls — edible walls also produce fruit, vegetables and herbs in far less space than typical gardens. That’s why advocates of urban farming have embraced them as a way to lower food costs, increase nutritional quality and cut fuel consumption and carbon emissions by using fewer delivery trucks.

The Amazing Rooftop Farms in Greenpoint!

Wow, these guys in Greenpoint, New York seem to really have it figured out! From their site:

The view from the rooftop is still one of verdant deliciousness!  Walk down Eagle Street in Greenpoint this Sunday, from 10am-5pm for the last market of 2009.  We’re on Eagle just past Franklin and before the East River–look for the Farm sign and our open door!  We’re looking to garner 100% of next year’s seed budget, so come support, eat well, and take in the gorgeous view of hundreds of marigolds still blooming on the Rooftop.  The Farm stand features spicy mesclun, pickled peppers, nasturtium pesto and three kinds of kale on just the short list!  You can pick up your sweet “I’m a local foodie” market bag and t-shirt, too, designed by the talented volunteers here at the Farm.

Truck Farm