Today, we’re diving headfirst into the wonderful world of living wall plants. If you’re looking to add a touch of nature to your home, this trend is the perfect way to do it.
Imagine lush greenery cascading down your walls, transforming your living space into a tranquil oasis. But before you start planting, let’s explore what living wall plants are and how to create your very own living masterpiece.
What is a Living Wall?
Living walls, also known as green walls or vertical gardens, are a creative way to bring the outdoors indoors. These beautiful installations consist of plants that grow vertically on walls or other vertical structures. They can be as simple as a single row of potted plants or as elaborate as an entire wall covered in foliage.
Why Choose to Install a Living Wall?
Space-Saving Beauty: Living walls are perfect for small spaces. If you’re lacking floor space but still want a garden, the walls are your canvas.
Air Quality: Plants naturally purify the air by absorbing toxins and releasing oxygen. Living walls act as a natural air purifier, making your home fresher and healthier.
Aesthetic Appeal: Living walls create an eye-catching focal point in any room. They add texture, color, and life to otherwise bland walls.
Therapeutic Benefits: Gardening has been proven to reduce stress and improve mental well-being. Having a living wall at home provides a soothing and therapeutic environment.
Getting Started With Your Living Wall
Selecting the Right Location: Choose a well-lit area for your living wall. Most plants need plenty of natural light, but some can thrive in low-light conditions. See our other post on long narrow garden ideas where a living wall would be an ideal solution to an outdoor wall.
Choosing Your Plants: Select a variety of plants with different shapes, sizes, and colors for visual interest. Some popular options include pothos, ferns, succulents, and air plants.
Containers and Support: You’ll need containers to hold the soil and plants. There are various options, from specialised vertical garden pockets to repurposed shoe organizers. Secure these containers to the wall or a sturdy support structure.
Soil and Maintenance: Use a well-draining potting mix suitable for your chosen plants. Regularly water and fertilise your green wall to keep it lush and healthy.
Design and Arrangement: Get creative with your plant arrangement. Experiment with patterns, colors, and textures to create a stunning visual display.
Maintaining Your Living Wall
Living wall maintenance is surprisingly simple:
Watering: Ensure your wall receives the right amount of water. It’s crucial to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Pruning and Trimming: Trim dead or yellowing leaves and cut back overgrown plants to maintain a tidy appearance.
Fertilising: Use a balanced liquid fertiliser to provide essential nutrients to your plants every few weeks.
Pest Control: Keep an eye out for pests and treat them promptly to protect your plants.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve learned the ins and outs of living wall plants, it’s time to turn your home into a green paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, living walls offer a fantastic way to connect with nature right at home.
So, grab your gardening gloves and get ready to transform your living space into a lush, vibrant oasis with the magic of living wall plants.
