How Are Living Walls Built? A Beginner’s Guide to Green Walls
How Do You Build a Living Wall?
Vertical gardens can turn dull, empty spaces into vibrant focal points for your entire office. However, building living walls can seem complicated, and many people prefer to skip the hassle. But the truth is that creating your very own green wall installation isn’t as hard as you might think, especially when you work with the professionals. Get the details about building a living wall or vertical garden in your office space.
Build a Living Wall Step-by-Step
Creating a living wall is all about balancing structural support and the right plants. Here’s how the professionals bring one to life:
- Select the Right Location—Start by finding a structurally sound wall that can handle extra weight. Account for the area’s temperature, humidity, and natural light levels.
- Install a Waterproof Backing—Next, we need to protect the original wall. The pros install waterproof membranes between the wall and garden framework to keep moisture from seeping in.
- Mount the Framework—After that, we attach a metal or wooden frame to hold your planters.
- Set Up the Irrigation System—Most green walls use a drip irrigation system, which means running a small tube along the top of the wall that slowly drips water down.
- Add Soil and Plants—Now for the best part! Fill your containers with a lightweight, well-draining potting mix and insert your chosen plants.
How to Maintain Commercial Living Wall Systems
Once your green wall installation is complete, it’s time to turn your focus to maintenance. It’s usually best to check your water reservoir and irrigation lines at least once a week to prevent clogs and ensure your plants are getting enough moisture. Remove any dead leaves and prune overgrown stems to keep new growth healthy. Some plants need liquid fertilizer, too, to stay nice and green.
The Benefits of Green Walls
Installing a commercial living wall system in your office has obvious aesthetic benefits. But beyond just looking good, these plants help improve your indoor air quality and act as natural soundproofing (perfect for a noisy office setting!). And of course, being surrounded by plants makes us feel less stressed and more focused during the workday.
What Plants Do Best in Living Green Walls?
The best part of office living wall design is choosing the plants you want for your vertical garden. Generally, you’ll need varieties with shallow root systems that thrive in constrained spaces. For indoor walls with moderate light, choose hardy species like pothos, philodendrons, and ferns. If you’re building an outdoor wall with ample sunlight, succulents, creeping thyme, and trailing ivy perform exceptionally well. Always group plants with similar water and light requirements in the same vertical zones.
How Much Light Do Living Walls Need?
Plants can’t survive without adequate light, so if your indoor space lacks bright windows, you may need to supplement with artificial lighting. Full-spectrum LED grow lights are often the most efficient option. Try positioning the lights directly above or in front of the wall to make sure the lower tiers get just as much light as the top.
Work With the Professionals at Oasis Plantscaping
While small, modular living walls make great DIY projects, large-scale installations require specialized knowledge. The professionals at Oasis Plantscaping take a look at your space and help you design a blossoming living garden. When you’re ready to transform your space, get in touch with our Washington, DC team to learn more.