Turning an ugly wall into a green one is much easier than you may imagine. Versatile and slender by design, the planter troughs remain some of the finest choices to consider when creating a green wall efficiently. Plant troughs-not only bring a feel of nature inside but also add flair to your office or garden area.
In this article, we’ll explore the step-by-step process of using planter troughs to build a green wall, along with tips to make your vertical garden a thriving feature.
Why Use Planter Troughs for a Green Wall?
Planter troughs are long, narrow containers that maximize planting space while taking up minimal room. Their design makes them perfect for vertical gardening. Here’s why they work so well for green walls:
- Space Efficiency: Troughs can be wall-mounted or stacked in frames, which is ideal for limited spaces such as balconies or courtyards.
- Variety of Design: They are available in many sizes, materials, and finishes that can be specified to suit your taste.
- Plant Varieties: Everything from trailing ivy to bright and colorful flowering plants can be grown in troughs.
- Improved air quality: the green wall is not only added to the aesthetic value but it also cleanses the air.
Step 1: Plan Your Green Wall Layout
Before you get started, take a little time to plan out your design. Take into consideration the following:
- Size and location of the wall: First, take measurements around the area where you want to set up a green wall. Ensure that there is adequate sunlight for the type of plants that you will want to grow there.
- Design Style: Is the look you want uniform, using one type of plant, or a combination of textures and colors? Draw a layout to base your installation from.
- Watering Needs: Will you water manually or install drip irrigation for convenience?
Step 2: Select the Proper Planter Troughs
Not all planter troughs are created equal, so select some that work for your project:
- Materials: Troughs made of lightweight materials, like fiberglass and plastic, can easily be mounted on walls. For a more natural appeal, though, the wooden troughs work well, but they have to be treated to handle moisture.
- Size: Select troughs that will sit comfortably on your wall with adequate distance between each layer to accommodate plant growth.
- Drainage: Ensure the troughs have proper drainage holes to avoid waterlogging and root rot.
Step 3: Choosing the Right Plants
Choosing the right plants is very crucial for a thriving and healthy green wall. Keep in mind:
- Sunlight Requirements: Choose plants with the same amount of sunlight required as your wall receives. For example, plants that require shade include ferns and philodendrons, while in sunny spots, one can grow succulents and herbs.
- Growth Habit: Use trailing plants like ivy or pothos for trailing effects, intermingled with upright plants that add height and texture to your plants.
- Level of Maintenance: If you like hands-off, then plant low-maintenance plants.
Step 4: Installation of Planter Troughs
Do the installation securely by following these steps;
- Wall Preparation: The wall must be sturdy enough to hold the weight of the planter troughs, plants, and their soil.
- Mounting System: Bracket, shelve, or frame the troughs on the wall. While doing this, start from the bottom going up to avoid loss of balance.
- Spacing: Space them such that plants have room to grow and for air circulation, penetration of light.
Step 5: Fill and Plant
Now, the most interesting part-planting your green wall!
- Adding the Soil: Fill the troughs with good-quality, lightweight potting mix. Do not use heavy soil mixes as they add much weight to the overall weight of the wall.
- Plant Placement: Place your plants in their proper order according to the design. Plants that cascade will be placed at the edges to spill over.
- Watering: Water well after planting and continue watering on a routine basis.
Step 6: Maintenance of Your Green Wall
To maintain this green wall:
- Prune regularly: This would help in keeping the plants at their desired shape and avoid the plants from being overcrowded.
- Monitor Watering: Changes in frequency depend on the season and plants.
- Fertilize: Apply liquid fertilizer every few weeks for good growth.
Conclusion
Of course, a green wall with planter troughs is one cool way to bring life and beauty into any vertical surface. With careful planning, the right materials, and ongoing care, you can turn your space into a lush oasis that will be visually stunning, not to mention great for the environment. Now, get out your planter troughs, get creative, and let nature climb your walls!