There are several ways to grow plants on a wall, ranging from planting at the base and training them to climb, to building elaborate vertical gardens. Here's a breakdown of common methods:
1. Planting at the Base and Training Climbers
This is the simplest and most traditional approach.
- Suitable Plants: Choose climbing plants like ivy, clematis, climbing roses, wisteria, or honeysuckle.
- Planting: Plant your chosen climber in the ground at the base of the wall.
- Support: Young plants will likely need some initial assistance.
- Trellis: Install a trellis against the wall for the plant to latch onto.
- Wires: Run horizontal wires along the wall. Secure the plant to the wires with plant ties.
- String: Use biodegradable string to gently guide the plant's growth.
- Maintenance: Regularly prune the plant to encourage desired growth and prevent it from becoming too heavy or damaging the wall.
2. Vertical Gardens (Living Walls)
Vertical gardens offer a more structured and controlled approach. They involve creating a self-contained growing system directly on the wall.
- Types:
- Pocket Gardens: These use fabric pockets attached to a frame or directly to the wall to hold plants and soil.
- Modular Systems: Pre-made modular panels with planting cells are mounted on the wall.
- Pallet Gardens: Upcycled wooden pallets can be transformed into vertical planters. (Ensure the pallet is heat-treated (HT) and not chemically treated (MB) for safety).
- Considerations:
- Watering: Living walls require a proper irrigation system. This can be a manual watering system or an automated drip irrigation system.
- Drainage: Ensure adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- Weight: Living walls can be heavy, so ensure the wall can support the added weight.
- Sunlight: Choose plants that are appropriate for the amount of sunlight the wall receives.
- Suitable Plants: Succulents, herbs, leafy greens, and compact flowering plants work well in vertical gardens.
3. Container Gardening on Walls
This method involves hanging individual planters or containers on the wall.
- Types of Containers: Use wall-mounted planters, hanging baskets, or repurposed items like mason jars.
- Mounting: Securely attach the containers to the wall using appropriate hooks, brackets, or screws. Ensure the wall material is considered when choosing mounting hardware (e.g., use masonry screws for brick walls).
- Suitable Plants: Herbs, succulents, trailing plants like petunias, and annuals are well-suited for container gardening on walls.
- Maintenance: Regularly water and fertilize the plants, as containers tend to dry out more quickly than in-ground planting.
Summary:
Growing plants on a wall can be achieved by training climbers, installing vertical gardens, or using container gardening techniques. The best method depends on the type of plant, the structure of the wall, and your available time and resources.
