Although development of low (extensive) and high (intensive) maintenance green roof systems has progressed significantly, studies on the function of the growing substrate as a living constituent are lacking. The objective of this review paper is to summarize current scientific knowledge on the components, composition, and characteristics of green roof substrates and to identify future research needs. Due to variations in climate and desired plant types, there is no universal growing substrate. An appropriate substrate is expected to provide permanent physical support for plants and possess a fine balance between free drainage and adequate plant available water and nutrient retention. Typical substrate components include minerals in natural or modified forms such as sand, lava rock, or expanded shale, clay and slate; recycled waste materials like crushed bricks or tiles, crushed or aerated concrete and subsoil; stabilized organic matter such as composts; and plastic materials and slow release fertilizers. Proportions of components vary among substrates based on target vegetation, green roof type, and other considerations. Better green roof management for maximum benefits will require characterizing, quantifying and understanding the impacts of plant species and building attributes such as aspect, slope, height and heating on substrate performance, and should be considered for future research.
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