The beauty of living walls, also known as green walls or vertical gardens, is mostly found in the variety and abundance of plant life they exhibit. Choosing the right plants for a living wall is essential to its success and longevity. There needs to be a good balance between aesthetics and practicality – with considerations for light exposure, watering needs, maintenance, and indoor air quality. Understanding plant characteristics and needs, along with the specifics of your green wall project, will help you select the best plant choices for your living wall.
The Basics of Choosing Plants for Living Walls
Sunlight, watering, and climate are the main determinants for the choice of plants for your green wall. Most indoor walls will require plants that fare well in low light conditions, while an outdoor wall’s plant selection will depend heavily on the orientation of the wall (i.e., whether it’s facing north, south, east, or west), as well as the local climate.
Soil depth is a critical factor when selecting plants for your living wall. Many green wall systems recommend a soil depth of around 3-4 inches, which is sufficient for many types of plants, including certain varieties of ferns, succulents, and grasses. For plants with deeper root systems, you will need to consider a system that allows for a greater soil depth.
Keep in mind the maintenance requirements of a green wall. Vines and climbers may deliver a stunning aesthetic, but they also require regular trimming and care to maintain their look.
Ideal Indoor Plant Choices
For indoor living walls, look for plants that can thrive inside with indirect light, less frequent watering, and air conditioning or heating considerations. Some popular choices include:
Pothos: Easy to care for, this plant handles a range of light conditions and only needs watering when dry. It features an elegant hanging growth habit.
Spider Plant: Known for its air-purifying qualities, spider plants have a unique look and are exceptionally resilient. This plant can survive in less ideal conditions and will still flourish.
Snake Plant: This plant doesn’t require much light or water to survive, making it an excellent choice for indoor living walls.
Peace Lily: A low-light tolerant plant, the peace lily is also celebrated for its ability to cleanse the indoor air of toxins.
Outdoor Green Walls Plant Choices
Outdoor living walls require plants that can withstand fluctuating weather conditions. Native species, perennial plants, and resistant species are usually the best choices.
Sedum: This heraceous perennial is suitable for sunny walls and is relatively pest-free. Sedum, also known as stonecrop, has a rapid growth rate and limited watering needs.
Ferns: Most ferns prefer shady locations, so they are ideal for north-facing walls. Varieties like sword fern or Boston fern are good choices.
Ivy: English Ivy and Boston Ivy are classic climbing vines that can cover larger walls. They are hardy, fast-growing and can withstand cold temperatures.
Begonias: These flowering plants add pops of color to your living wall, thrive in moderate sunlight, and require only moderate moisture levels.
Edible Plants for Living Walls
For gardening enthusiasts who wish to add an edible component, many herbs, vegetables, and fruit-bearing plants can thrive in a vertical garden.
Mint: This fragrant herb is a great addition to the culinary section of your wall, and its sprawling habit makes it a good choice for green walls.
Strawberries: These fruit-bearing plants grow vertically naturally, making them a perfect choice. They prefer sunny locations and moist soil.
Tomatoes: With vertical gardening popularity, many tomato varieties are now tailored for upright growth. Choose a smaller variety, such as cherry tomatoes or pear tomatoes, for your living wall.
Lettuce: Lettuce has short roots and grows well in shallow soil, making it an excellent choice for a green wall. Plus, it’s a cost-effective way to have fresh greens at your fingertips!
A green wall is an engaging, visually striking way to invite nature into urban spaces, either indoor or outdoor. With careful planning and consideration of light, watering needs, and plant characteristics, it’s an achievable step towards greener living. By selecting the right plants, you can ensure your living wall will be a dynamic, vital, and sustainable feature for years to come.
