- Architecture and Engineering: The design, planning and construction of the hanging gardens required the expertise of architects and engineers. Complex architectural techniques were employed, such as massive foundations, intricate support structures and innovative irrigation systems.
- Materials and construction techniques: Skilled laborers were needed to work with various materials used for the gardens. These included stone, brick, bitumen, wood, and decorative materials like tiles, mosaics, and sculptures. Expertise in masonry, stone cutting, carpentry and other construction techniques were essential.
- Botany and horticulture: Cultivating exotic plants and maintaining diverse flora in the hanging gardens required extensive botanical knowledge. Gardeners needed to understand the specific needs of different plants, including climate requirements, soil conditions, irrigation methods, and pruning techniques.
- Hydraulic Engineering: The gardens relied on an intricate system of canals, pipes, and pumps to irrigate the plants. Hydraulic engineers had to plan and construct this complex network to bring water from the Euphrates river to the elevated gardens.
- Water Management: Managing the flow of water was critical to sustain the gardens. Knowledge of hydrology, water flow, and water filtration was necessary to ensure a consistent water supply and protect the plants.
- Arts and Aesthetics: Creating the beauty and grandeur of the hanging gardens involved the skills of artists, designers, and craftsmen. This included sculpture, mosaic, tiling, and decorative elements to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the gardens.
- Agricultural Techniques: The gardens required skilled farmers to cultivate and maintain the diverse plants. Knowledge of soil fertility, crop rotation, pest control, and fertilizer practices were essential for successful gardening.
- Mathematics and Astronomy: Mathematical calculation and astronomical observations were used to determine the orientation of the gardens, the layout of terraces, and the timing of irrigation schedules.
- Organizational and administrative skills: Managing the resources, workforce and logistics of such a complex project required effective organizational and administrative skills. This involved coordinating the work of architects, engineers, laborers, gardeners, and other specialists.
- Trade and Logistics: Constructing and maintaining the gardens required the acquisition and transportation of various materials, plants and resources. Trade networks and logistics were crucial to ensure the availability of necessary materials.