Urban gardening can be a rewarding and refreshing experience, particularly when working with vertical gardens. For those with space constraints, making the best use of your garden space is essential. Compact plants are the ideal solution for small vertical gardens. These plants are small sized, have maximum growth that is restricted to a particular height, and are perfect for growing within confined areas or walls. But how do you select the best compact plants to enrich your small vertical garden?
## Types
### 1. Herbs
Herbs are a favorite when it comes to vertical gardening due to their compact size, short growing time, and usability in daily life. Within herbs, compact varieties are available that are tailor-made for small vertical gardens.
Among them, some worthy mentions are the varieties of basil such as ‘Spicy Globe’ and ‘Boxwood’ which grow up to about 12 inches high. Thyme ‘Elfin’ is a low-growing variety that spreads nicely over the edge of vertical garden pots. Compact varieties of mint like ‘Tabard’s After Eight’ or ‘White Chocolate Mint’ are also excellent choices.
### 2. Succulents
Another popular choice, succulents, are terrific for vertical walls as they need little water or soil to grow. Low maintenance and an array of vibrant shades make succulents perfect for small vertical gardens.
Look for compact varieties such as Echeveria ‘Lola’, Sedum ‘Cape Blanco’, Crassula ‘Emerald’, or Haworthia ‘Cuspidata.’ These compact varieties are small in size, and their exquisite colors and designs are a delight for the eyes.
### 3. Ferns
If you want to evoke an enchanting, woodland-like feel with your vertical garden, compact varieties of ferns are your best bet. Some options here include Maidenhair Fern, Rabbit’s Foot Fern, and Bird’s Nest Fern. These varieties stay relatively small and thrive in vertical gardens due to their preference for growing in crevices and small rocky areas.
### 4. Edible Plants
Setting up a small vertical garden can also be productive. Compact varieties of edible plants like ‘Tumbler’ tomatoes, strawberries, dwarf varieties of blueberries, and mini bell peppers can be grown in vertical gardens to harvest your home-grown fruits and vegetables. Not only do these plants beautify your garden, but they also provide a fresh supply of homegrown organics.
## Care Tips for Compact Plants in Vertical Gardens
Once you have selected the perfect compact plants for your small vertical garden, you should learn how to properly care for your garden. Below are some maintenance tips for your little green haven.
### 1. Proper Watering
Watering is a critical aspect of keeping your vertical garden thriving. The amount and frequency of watering differ from plant to plant. For instance, succulents require very little watering, while herbs and edible plants have slightly higher water requirements.
Use a well-drained system for your vertical garden to allow water to trickle down from the upper containers to the lower ones. This way, plants on the upper level won’t dry out while the ones at the bottom won’t get waterlogged.
### 2. Ideal Sunlight
Most compact plants, be it herbs, succulents, ferns, or small fruits and vegetables, require at least six hours of sunlight a day.
Attempt to find a location for your vertical garden that receives regular sunlight. However, if that’s not possible, opt for shade-loving plants or use grow lights to supplement the sunlight.
### 3. Nutrient-Rich Soil
Depending on your selected plants, make sure you fill your vertical garden containers with the right kind of soil.
For herbs, use fertile, well-drained soil. For succulents, use a special cactus mix that drains quickly. For ferns, choose a rich, compost-based soil.
### 4. Regular Pruning
Compact plants usually don’t require much pruning. However, if your compact plant becomes overcrowded or overgrown, consider pruning it back to maintain its shape and size.
Making small vertical gardens vibrant and lively with compact plants is simple and effective. With a careful selection, right care, and maintenance, your vertical garden can be an attractive feature in your house. It’s not just about aesthetics, it also brings a sense of fulfillment and serenity, making your home a green paradise in the heart of the city.
