Among professionals who work with landscaping and people who are interested in the subject, it is increasingly common to hear the name “vertical garden”, also known as “green wall”.
Daniela Colnaghi, interior designer and vice president of Marketing at the Decoration Association of the State of São Paulo (ADESP), explains that vertical gardens are panels mounted on living structures. “They bring life to indoor or outdoor environments, such as unused walls and walls, hallways or corners,” she says.
“In addition to their beauty in the form of decoration, vertical gardens are beneficial for any environment, providing thermal comfort, reducing pollution and reducing external noise”, adds interior designer Daniela.
It is not by chance that vertical gardens have been so successful, is it? If you’re also interested in investing in a vertical garden, you’ll love the information, tips and inspiration below.
Ideas and tips for making your vertical garden
Few people would see a simple bed frame as a potential object, however, the owner of this house managed to see in it a panel to hang potted plants. That’s how she set up a simple, cheap, but very elegant vertical garden.
In this property, an elegant garden and a small vegetable garden were created where the residents grow some spices. The outdoor area is also a setting for receiving visitors.
Wall with concrete pieces in wavy relief forming vases to compose a vertical garden. Different and elegant project by Taguá Arquitetura.
Vertical garden made with vases. Great tip for growing seasonings in the apartment, as well as leaving the environment beautiful and delicate.
Bathroom with vertical garden occupying the entire wall that is next to the bathtub. A cozy atmosphere, project by Mariana Borges and Thaysa Godoy.
Vertical garden built on the roof of an apartment with swimming pool, providing residents with the feeling of being closer to nature.
The vertical garden in this apartment highlights the beauty of the pool covered in greenish tiles, as well as the view of the city.
The green vertical garden creates a very interesting contrast with the modern purple sofa and the black stone.
A modern outdoor space that has gained even more beauty and comfort with this vertical garden. Project by Marisa Lima.
How to make a vertical garden
According to Daniela, there is no rule, each person finds their own way of making a vertical garden. However, there are some steps that cannot be missed in any installation of a green space, according to the interior designer:
- Choice of area;
- Choice of support;
- Choice of plants;
- Finally, search for information on the ideal conditions for cultivation.
“The structure, in general, is in covered iron, like a lattice to support the pots with the plants. The plants used are from sun to half shade, as the sun does not hit the wall, however, we have a lot of light. They are: ferns, liriopes, purple lambari, peixinho and asparagus, in addition to some orchids to leave them in bloom”, says Daniela.
“Irrigation is automated and water twice a day for two minutes. After some time, this watering may decrease to once a day, when the plants are already adapted”, adds the interior designer.
3 common questions about vertical garden clarified
Check out the expert’s answers on common questions that may arise when setting up vertical gardens:
1. What are the best flowers and plants for vertical gardens?
Daniela: Vertical garden allows the use of different species of plants, leaves and/or flowers. The mixed use of them makes the composition more colorful and eye-catching. For indoor environments with low light density, semi-shade plants, such as Bromeliads, Lily, American Fern, among others, are perfect. Species such as Liriope, Heras, Guaimbê are ideal for outdoor environments, with winds and a lot of light density.
2. Are there any restrictions on vertical gardens? What should I avoid planting in gardens like this?
Daniela: There are no restrictions on plants to set up the space, however, it is necessary to choose the plants well taking into account the climatic and structural conditions of the place. Large roots or aggressive roots are not suitable and should be avoided. Preferably, the plants should be perennial, contributing to the whole concept of sustainability.
3. What special care should I take with the vertical garden?
Daniela: Care starts when choosing the best plant or flower for the place. Taking care of the type of climate, lighting and ventilation are important points for the survival of the panel. If it is made with pots, make sure the soil is not too dry or soggy. In the case of some panels, irrigation is done in an automated way, which gives the chance to better control this irrigation care. In some cases, it is necessary to apply fertilizer frequently so that the plants can live well. Always consult a specialist to know exactly what care is taken with the chosen plant.
21 enchanting vertical gardens to inspire you
Now you know: with the possibility of using different formats and plant species, you can make a beautiful vertical garden for your home or office, indoors or outdoors. In addition to being beautiful, it will be beneficial to the environment, providing thermal comfort, and reducing pollution and external noise.