Creating a vertical garden is the ideal option to transform small spaces into green oases full of life. These gardens offer multiple benefits, such as improving air quality, optimising space and providing a more harmonious and natural environment, both indoors and outdoors. In addition, they represent a creative solution to enjoy nature in small areas. Below, we explain in detail how to create and design your own vertical garden for small spaces.
What is a vertical garden and why should you have one?
A vertical garden is basically a plant composition arranged vertically on a wall or fixed structure. Instead of planting in traditional pots, plants are grown in systems designed to take up minimal horizontal space. This type of gardening is especially useful in urban environments where space is limited.
Advantages of a vertical garden:
- Making the most of small spaces: Perfect for balconies, terraces or small interiors.
- Aesthetic improvement: Transform plain walls into colorful living landscapes.
- Environmental benefit: Helps purify the air and control the temperature indoors and outdoors.
- Ease of maintenance: With the right design, caring for a vertical garden can be much easier than a traditional garden.
Key features for a vertical garden in small spaces
It is essential to define the location of your garden. This will depend on the light, temperature and humidity conditions. If you are going to place the garden indoors, look for plants that require little light, such as ferns or succulents. Outdoors, you can opt for more resistant plants such as pothos or ivy.
Core items:
- Structure: It can be a pallet, a lattice or prefabricated panels designed for hanging plants.
- Pots or pockets: Use containers such as small flower pots, geotextile bags or even recycled items such as plastic bottles.
- Substratum: Use light soil that facilitates water drainage.
- Irrigation system: A simple drip system can keep plants moist efficiently.
Step-by-step guide to building a vertical garden
If you want to build a vertical garden, follow these steps in detail:
1. Selecting the right location
- Choose a sturdy wall capable of supporting the weight of the garden.
- Consider light conditions. If the area receives direct sunlight, choose plants that can tolerate these conditions. If not, choose species that thrive in indirect light.
2. Choose the structure
You can build the frame from recycled materials or buy a ready-made one. If you decide to do it yourself, wooden pallets or panels are a great option. Sand the wood and apply a protector to prolong its lifespan.
3. Place the pots or pockets
Secure the pots to the frame using hooks or by screwing them in place. If you opt for a geotextile pocket design, make sure they are firmly attached and deep enough to support the plant roots.
4. Irrigation system
A drip irrigation system will significantly reduce maintenance time and ensure that the plants receive just the right amount of water. Alternatively, you can water them manually, making sure that excess water is collected properly so as not to damage the walls.
5. Plant selection and planting
- For interiors: Ferns, pothos, succulents and feather ferns are some of the best options.
- For outdoors: Geraniums, lavender, vines or climbing plants such as ivy.
- Plant in a suitable substrate and add a layer of organic compost to nourish the plants.
6. Maintenance
- regular watering: Adjust the frequency according to the season and the specific needs of your plants.
- Periodic pruning: Removes dead leaves and controls the growth of the most vigorous plants.
- Pest surveillance: Inspect leaves and stems regularly to prevent infestations.
Expanding ideas with recycled resources
One of the most economical and sustainable ways to build a vertical garden is by reusing materials. Some options:
- Plastic bottles: Cut them in half and use them as small flower pots.
- Wooden boxes: Ideal for creating modular compartments.
- PVC pipes: Create horizontal rows to grow aromatic herbs.
Additional benefits of vertical gardens
Not only do they beautify the environment, but they have positive effects on our physical and mental health. Studies have shown that surrounding ourselves with nature improves mood, reduces stress and increases productivity in work environments. In addition, Some plants help purify the air, turning the vertical garden into an ally of well-being.
A vertical garden is not only an ingenious solution to take advantage of small spaces, but also an excellent option to connect with nature at home in a creative way. Add a natural touch to your walls and enjoy its multiple decorative and environmental benefits.