There are many garden trends emerging on a regular basis. A popular trend has been around vertical gardens. In this blog, we’re letting you know more about vertical gardens and using walls and structures for greenery.
What is a vertical garden?
If you haven’t already heard of a vertical garden, then it’s time to learn about what it means. A vertical garden is essentially an upright garden rather than an in-ground garden. They can often be referred to as green walls, living walls and eco walls, so if you see these phrases – they are all the same thing.
These vertical gardens have become very trendy thanks to the wide range of plants and greenery that can be used to bring them to life. It’s always good to add more colour to your outdoor space, and a green wall is a perfect way to achieve that. Vertical gardening can be lots of fun.
Why should I consider a vertical garden?
Vertical gardens can be used in any outdoor space, but they are particularly useful for those with smaller gardens. By utilising your garden walls, you can still have many beautiful plants despite having a smaller space to work with.
Alternatively, a living wall can be a great addition, even if you have a bigger outdoor space. They look great, and they can definitely add more dimension to your garden. There are many benefits to consider.
What are the benefits of a living wall?
As we already mentioned, these garden walls are perfect for smaller gardens, but there are many other benefits too. Here are just a few.
Promotes good well-being
Being around plants, in general, is great for our well-being, but a living wall makes them even easier to see. Picture yourself relaxing in the garden this summer, reading a book and admiring your beautiful garden wall.
Getting outside is a great way to boost your mental well-being, as is gardening. Read our blog on the benefits of gardening.
Great way to add colour to your wall space
A green wall will undoubtedly add a focal point to your garden space. A vertical structure is a great way to enhance concrete walls. All of your guests will be talking about your feature wall.
Upright structures mean more space outdoors
Taking up vertical space means you’ll have more room in your garden. This is so useful for small gardens that might have potted plants dotted around, leaving you with little floor space to relax.
Eco friendly
Vertical gardens are very eco-friendly and can encourage different types of bugs and nature to appear. While spotting new bugs, you can also rest assured that you’re supporting the environment and enhancing the air quality.
Extra warmth
It might not be the most obvious benefit of utilising your garden walls, but they will actually help to retain heat. Many people choose to create living walls on their garden fences or even on the exterior of their homes.
As well as providing more warmth, a living garden wall can also help to reduce noise. So, a living wall could be a great option if you’re looking for more peace and quiet.
What to think about when planning a vertical garden
Starting your own living wall is a very exciting project, and it’s sure to be rewarding too. There are a few things you will need to consider before starting.
Think about sunlight with vertical structures
Different plants need varying levels of sunlight, so you’ll need to consider this when choosing the plants for your vertical garden. Don’t worry if you have quite a shaded garden, as you can just use plants that like to be in the shade.
Think about watering the plants
Your living wall will need watering every now and again. The rainwater might be enough for some plants, but others may require a little more. You could either water them yourself or look into an irrigation system. Make sure that you include drainage holes for your vertical planting.
It’s a good idea to look into lighting and watering before you get started. That way, you can decide on the best location for your living wall based on all of the facts. Vertical gardening is very rewarding.
Vertical garden ideas
Here are some good ways to enhance your vertical garden.
- Hanging baskets/hanging planters with flowers
- Climbing plants or trailing plants
- Herb garden/vegetable wall – chilli peppers and runner beans are a great addition!
- Vertical planter boxes/window boxes
How can I organise my garden?
Another way to organise your garden is through the use of our versatile lawn edging solution. FlexiBorder is a robust, weather-resistant and environmentally friendly way to keep your garden organised. Available in a variety of colours, our garden edging can be used on straight and curved edges as well as corners! Check out our online shop.
We hope this blog has been useful regarding vertical gardens – they’re certainly an exciting way to spruce up your garden! If you’re looking for more ways to organise your garden, why not consider FlexiBorder? Feel free to contact our friendly team if you have any questions – we’re more than happy to help. Good luck with your vertical gardening project!
