You may have noticed that green walls are beginning to pop up everywhere. Many commercial properties have been taking advantage of their vertical areas for years but recently this trend has begun to make its climb in residential design. Green wall systems have become less expensive to manage. They are practical and aesthetically pleasing and no area is too small or too big to encompass a vertical garden. The benefits for a healthy home and wallet are astounding!
There are three types of green walls that can be utilized in a residential setting:
- Trellises and cabling systems with climbing plants are one way to set up a vertical garden. Many people utilize this method for growing fruits and vegetables that have long vines.
- Green facades are the second type of green wall used in landscapes and they typically consist of modular panels which can be attached to a wall in which to grow plants. Modular designs are great for people who are still on the fence about having a living wall design because they allow homeowners to start small and add on later by purchasing more wall mounted planters and plants.
- The third type of living wall includes fabricated soil and a water-drip or similar type of irrigation system. This living wall’s plants are built into the architecture of a structure and thrive by growing into their new location.
Benefits of a Living Green Wall
Reduce Energy Consumption
You can gain green energy credits from the state of New Jersey by including a green wall into your landscape design. By increasing your home’s estimated energy savings you will also be increasing your tax refund!
Plants cool our surroundings by releasing moisture into the air which means that placing a green wall near a seating area will keep you free from the heat even on the hottest days.
Create A Barrier
If you are looking for privacy from neighbors incorporating a green wall into your design can offer you the solitude you desire while offering an incredible view.
Make separated areas in your landscape within your landscape to designate the outdoor kitchen area from your pool and spa. If you want distinct places for children, pets and adults than utilizing a vertical garden will help you achieve your design goal.
Many people try to utilize fencing to block out excess sound from neighborhoods or roadways but by creating a green wall instead you will be able to enjoy all the benefits of a lush vertical garden while also blocking noise.
Increase Property’s Value with Creativity
Turn your living wall into a canvas of color and create a detailed or abstract artistic design. Get creative and have fun with color!
Realtors state that each area of intrigue and allure you can add to your outdoor space is necessary. Now-a-days beautiful and spacious outdoor living areas are a large part of why buyers purchase a home. Having a spectacular focal point, like a living wall, adds to your investment by enticing people to buy.
Fresh Herbs at Your Fingertips
Basil, Cilantro, Oregano, Thyme, Rosemary, Lemongrass, the list could go on and on. Any spice you have ever wanted to try and small fruits too!
If you enjoy cooking, or at least someone in your house does, then you know there is nothing better than having all of your favorite fresh herbs anytime you want. If space has been an issue for you in the past, vertical gardens take away any and all excuses.
Health Benefits
By method of particulate reduction, vertical gardens have shown to reduce seasonal allergies while improving your resistance to the flu.
Living walls in the medical setting have shown to reduce recovery time for patients.
Studies have shown that children with ADHD have a better ability to focus when there are green walls in their classrooms.
Things to Remember
- Using a variety of plants is a great way to realize the true beauty and fun of having a living wall but keep your maintenance plan in mind and make sure that the plants you choose have a similar care routine. If most of your plant choices like shade and your wall is in a shady area, choosing a plant that needs full sun for most of the day is probably not the best option.
- Succulents are great plants to use in a modular green wall installation because they have small roots systems and need very little water during the summer; they can also be brought inside during the winter for an indoor vertical garden.
- If you don’t plan on moving your living wall then utilize Evergreen plants throughout your space so that it stays green all year long.
- When designing a green wall, it’s best to consult with an expert first. Many people find the first year to be the most difficult which means having reliable help on call can be accommodating.
