Question

The difficulties encountered in a roof garden are as follows
(A). Soil depth is limited
(B). Large trees and shrubs can be grown with greater ease than any other garden
(C). Drainage needs to be ensured
(D). Frequent watering is required
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B) and (D) only.
• B. (A), (B) and (C) only.
• C. (A), (C) and (D) only.
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only.

Hint:

When thinking about rooftop gardening, always consider the two biggest constraints: weight and water. Limited weight capacity restricts soil depth and plant size. Exposure to elements increases water needs and necessitates excellent drainage.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the real challenges and difficulties associated with establishing and maintaining a roof garden.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's evaluate each statement:
\[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{(A) Soil depth is limited: This is a major difficulty. The weight-bearing capacity of a roof is limited, so only a shallow layer of lightweight growing medium can be used, restricting the types of plants that can be grown. This statement is a difficulty. } \\ \bullet & \text{(B) Large trees and shrubs can be grown with greater ease than any other garden: This statement is the opposite of reality and is false. Due to limited soil depth and severe weight restrictions, growing large trees and shrubs is extremely difficult and often impossible on a roof. } \\ \bullet & \text{(C) Drainage needs to be ensured: This is a critical difficulty. Proper drainage is essential to prevent water from pooling, which can damage the building's structure and waterproofing, and also cause waterlogging of plant roots. This statement is a difficulty. } \\ \bullet & \text{(D) Frequent watering is required: This is another significant difficulty. The shallow soil, combined with increased exposure to sun and wind on a rooftop, causes the growing medium to dry out very quickly, necessitating more frequent irrigation compared to a ground-level garden. This statement is a difficulty. } \\ \end{array}\] The difficulties encountered are (A), (C), and (D).

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct option that lists only the difficulties is (A), (C) and (D) only.