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There are lots of short cuts in the design and construction of green roofs but if you want a 100% professional approach to making a roof which is more water-proof and better-insulated than a normal roof, then you can do a lot worse than use the methods shown on this interview with the manager of the green roof on the Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin, Texas. For good measure, the planting is of native plants. This shows how to make a real habitat and this is much better for wildlife than a nutrient-free sedum roof established on lightweight aggregate.