A vertical planter, also known as a living wall, can be a perfect solution for those who love a touch of greenery but are constrained by space. By growing plants vertically, one can make the most of narrow balconies, tiny yards, and even windowless walls. Not only are vertical planters aesthetically pleasing, but they also help improve air quality, provide privacy, and create a soothing ambiance. In this article, we’ll explore some simple homemade vertical planter ideas that require minimal investment of time, effort, and resources.
1. Pallet Planters
Pallet planters are perhaps the most convenient and popular choice for DIY enthusiasts. The structure is already in place and all you need is, to line each shelf with a landscape fabric, and fill with a mixture of compost and potting soil. A pallet planter can be mounted on a wall or left freestanding. It serves to create a rustic, natural aesthetic that’s ideal for growing a variety of plants, particularly small flowers, ferns, and herbs.
2. Hanging Shoe Organizer
Yes, that’s right. A hanging shoe organizer can be easily transformed into a vertical planter. The fabric and multiple pockets make it ideal for growing several different plants. Simply hang it in a spot that receives optimal sunlight, fill each pocket with soil and plant your preferred greenery. It’s not only functional but also a visually appealing way to recycle old shoe organizers.
3. Mason Jar Garden
A mason jar garden gives vertical planters a unique and stylish twist. Attach hose clamps to a wooden board, and adjust each one to securely hold a mason jar. Fill the jars with potting soil and your plant of choice and hang the entire assembly on a wall. This vertical planter idea is especially suitable for kitchen herbs like basil, rosemary, and thyme as it facilitates easy access when cooking.
4. Ladder Planter
An old ladder can be converted into a charming vertical planter. Treat, paint and secure the ladder against a wall. You can then use each step to place potted plants or make wooden boxes to fit each level. This arrangement allows ample room for each plant to grow, making it an ideal choice for flamboyant flowers or trailing vines.
5. Recycled Bottle Tower
If you’re all for upcycling, this vertical planter idea is for you. Cut off the bottom of large plastic bottles, fill with soil, and plant your preferred greenery. String them together into a tower, ensuring each bottle’s neck is entering the preceding bottle’s cut bottom. Hang this tower in a sunny spot and you have an eco-friendly vertical planter, perfect for small spaces.
6. PVC Pipe Vertical Garden
Another ingenious way to have vertical planters is by using large PVC pipes. Drill holes at different heights in each pipe, and fill the pipe with soil. You can then plant herbs or flowers in the different holes, creating a dynamic, multi-level garden on a compact vertical space.
7. Shadow Box Planter
Converting a shadow box into a planter can result in a very classy vertical garden. Install a few shadow boxes on your wall in a pattern that suits your taste. Fill each box with small, attractive plants to create a living mosaic. Succulents are an especially nice option for this kind of display because they need little root space and come in a wide variety of shapes and colors.
8. Tin Can Hanging Planters
Tin cans are another great material for constructing vertical planters. Paint them in vibrant colors, drill two holes near the open rim for hanging, and punch a few holes at the bottom for drainage. Once you’ve prepared your cans, simply fill them with soil and your chosen plants, and hang them on a wall, fence, or trellis.
9. Garden Slat Wall
Last but certainly not least on our list is the garden slat wall. This involves arranging and securing wooden slats in an overlapping pattern on a wall. The resulting pockets can hold soil and plants, affording you a vertical garden that’s uniquely beautiful and functional. The garden slat wall allows versatility in designing your garden layout and is ideal for green walls.
As you can see, there’s a multitude of ways in which you can create a vertical garden at home. All it takes is a little creativity, some spare time, and a passion for gardening. Whether you string up old plastic bottles, make use of an outdated ladder, or creatively arranged wooden slats, you’re sure to end up with a striking display of greenery that not only uplifts your living space but also contributes to the environment.
