Looking for a way to create a lush outdoor feature in your garden? A vertical garden is an opportunity to maximise your outdoor space and create living décor.
Formal living walls
“There are some good modular living wall systems available that provide an almost plug-and-play option for home owners. However there are some details that need to be understood, like water supply for the integrated irrigation, waterproofing the wall that they may be mounted on, and drainage to deal with any possible excess water coming off the wall.
“It important to note that these walls require ongoing maintenance, so access post installation is critical. These walls can really bring joy to a space if care is taken in the plant species chosen. We always like to suggest plants that bring seasonal character and attract bees, birds and butterflies so that the living wall is alive.” – Bernice Rumble, professional landscape architect and owner of Land Art Studio
Alternative options
“There are also many less structured ways to incorporate vertical greening: simply hanging epiphytes against walls or on timber screens, or planting creepers to climb up a wall or decorative screen can create vertical gardens. This is usually a more cost-effective approach and easier-to-maintain solution.” – Bernice Rumble, professional landscape architect and owner of Land Art Studio
Tried and tested
“The easiest way to incorporate a vertical garden into your home is to use a tried-and-tested system. These systems can be installed by a professional or by the home owner with just a few common tools. They are typically modular, allowing you to add on modules to cover the space that you need to.” – Craig de Necker, managing director of The Friendly Plant
Go DIY
“There are many DIY options available and they often make use of recycled materials so there can be a ‘feel good’ factor to this option. These would require a more adventurous home owner and they range from using timber pallets to hardwood timber and even recycling plastic cold drink bottles to create planting space in a vertical environment.” – Craig de Necker, managing director of The Friendly Plant
Preparation is key
“Green walls in the form of planter features can be incorporated inside as well as outside the home – as long as there is sufficient light, irrigation and drainage. There are off-the-shelf options for the keen do-it-yourselfer, and the more complex products that are installed by experts.” – Michael Rickhoff, landscape designer and faculty head of design presentation at Lifestyle College
Use your imagination
“You can also plant up vines and creepers on trellis support and training wires. A wonder wall can serve as a vibrant tapestry feature, a jaw-dropping living, breathing façade or a lush organic background. Massive or framed in small surrounds, the possibilities are limited only by the imagination.” – Michael Rickhoff, landscape designer and faculty head of design presentation at Lifestyle College
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