Your guide to vertical gardens
Do you have limited space at home or in the garden? Then this popular new horticultural trend is for you! Vertical gardens are all about planting a garden up a wall instead of on the ground. It’s perfect for those who live in a small space but dream of their own flower or veggie patch.
Where can you grow a vertical garden?
The beauty of vertical garden is that you can grow them anywhere there’s a vertical space. They’re great for an apartment balcony but can also be used to cover up your garden walls or fences. You can also grow them inside or outside.
What are the benefits of a vertical garden?
They are a convenient gardening option for those who don’t want to spend so much time in the garden. They give you all the colours of a garden without taking up much time. Easy to create and suitable for areas of all sizes.
Where can I get a vertical garden?
You can buy ready-made vertical gardens from your nursery. Alternatively, you can make one yourself. Some ideas include: old pallets, hessian bags filled with potting mix, polypipe with holes drilled in the sides but you can use anything to create your own vertical garden.
What should I plant?
Choose compact, low growing plants with shallow root system. Keep in mind where the plants will be positioned (full sun, part shade) and group plants with similar watering requirements together. Most vertical systems will be drier at top and wetter at the bottom.
Here are some suggestions:
Sunny areas: Gazanias, geraniums, echeveria, semipervious, crassula, sedum or trailing seasonal bloomer.
Shady areas: Ferns, bromeliads, mini mondo grass, Liriope, begonias, cissus or Calathea.
Edibles: Herbs like thyme and oregano, leafy greens like spinach and lettuce and fruits like strawberry and tomatoes.
Related link:
The best plants for a shady backyard
10 famous gardening quotes we love
How to create a no-dig garden bed