The seed that started it all
Greenrooftops started long before the name existed. Tim Riley had spent his whole life growing things, from salad crops like lettuce, celery and tomatoes to delicate Phalaenopsis orchids. Growing was never a job; it was simply who he was.
About fifteen years ago, Tim was approached to grow sedum for green roofing, and that single request shaped everything that followed.
What began as a small field producing a sedum blanket soon outgrew its space. A move down the road opened up a larger site and brought Boyko into the fold to manage field operations.
As the work expanded, something became clear. Installing a sedum blanket on a roof was harder than it needed to be. That realisation sparked a new idea.
Where the story began to branch out
Tim started experimenting with growing sedum directly in lightweight trays that would stay on the roof permanently. This simple idea transformed how people install a green roof. Instead of complex layering and specialist knowledge, you now get a fully grown module that clicks together on the roof with ease. If you can do Lego, you can install a Greenrooftops sedum tray.
Around the same time, a chance conversation with an old school friend opened another door. Land became available beside the fields they were renting. Tim bought it, and the business finally had a home of its own. You can still see the little primary school across the fields.
Working on their own land meant thinking long term. A new building followed, with space for offices, staff facilities and machinery maintenance. A dedicated yard was added for loading, compost storage and lightweight aggregate. The site grew steadily, powered by the same values from day one.
Growing greener, in every sense
Being part of the green industry shaped how the land was managed. The entire site now runs off-grid thanks to a large solar array with battery storage. Rainwater is harvested and used to irrigate young sedum during sowing. Every product is grown on the farm, never bought in, so every tray and blanket is entirely homegrown.
Today, Greenrooftops grows sixteen varieties of sedum from seed. This ensures a richer, more consistent mix than cheaper cutting-grown alternatives.
Every sedum roof kit contains this full mix, which means your roof adapts naturally to your local climate. Coastal roofs may favour certain varieties, city roofs others. Both are normal and part of the beauty of a living roof.
Because all stock is grown on site, orders can be packed quickly, delivered fast and even photographed before loading if you would like to see exactly what is arriving. Quality is easier to guarantee when every plant is grown under your own care.
Our people-first approach
Greenrooftops has never believed in flashy sales teams. If you want someone to turn up in a shiny car for a coffee, you may prefer another supplier.
If you want real growers with real experience, you’re in the right place. Good old-fashioned value from people who know their craft is still at the heart of everything here.
The benefits of a green roof
Save energy
A green roof adds natural insulation and helps reduce energy use throughout the year.
Stays cooler in summer
Sedum keeps surface temperatures down, which makes buildings more comfortable in hot spells.
Extends roof life
The extra layer protects the waterproofing and increases the lifespan of flat roofs.
A haven for wildlife
Bees, butterflies and other pollinators thrive on sedum, even in built-up areas.
Looks beautiful
A living landscape transforms a plain grey roof into something vibrant and uplifting.
Helps manage rainwater
Sedum absorbs and slows rainfall, easing pressure on drainage systems and reducing runoff.
How green fingers are shaping greener futures
Growing sedum for green roofs is only one part of the story. We also think carefully about how to make that work greener, too.
Biodiversity
Sedum is rich in nectar, attracting bees and butterflies. We grow sixteen varieties in our Gloucestershire fields, supporting pollinators and biodiversity. When planted on roofs in urban areas, sedum helps improve air quality and attenuate rainfall, creating greener, healthier cities.
Sustainability
We keep our footprint low by using recycled materials wherever possible, powering our operations with solar energy, and collecting rainwater for irrigation. Growing locally means shorter transport distances and fresher products for our customers.
Time to click your green roof into place
If you're ready to bring a green roof to your home or simply want to learn more about how our sedum systems work, browse the range and see what fits your space.