Everything You Need to Know About Vertical Gardening
Millions of people from all across the globe are embracing gardening as their hobby these days. However, if you’ve always wanted to have your own garden, but you live in a city – don’t worry at all because a vertical garden doesn’t require too much space. Just keep on reading and learn everything you need to know about vertical gardening. Enjoy!
It saves a lot of space
Vertical gardens are gaining momentum these days and the reasons for that are more than good. First of all, such a garden will allow you to completely transform unused areas around your home. Did you know that growing plants vertically can save a lot of space? That’s right, and it’s because you can build a vertical garden anywhere you like – primarily on the walls and fences. Hanging plants from a balcony or porch is also a great idea, so bear it in mind as well. As you can tell, vertical gardening is the perfect choice for people who have a limited gardening space (or no space at all). If you’re still a beginner at this hobby, the first step is picking a wall appropriate for your vertical garden. It’s a great way to start!
It works for all kinds of plants
What makes vertical gardening so great is the fact that it works for all kinds of plants. For example, strawberries, lettuce, kale, spinach, cucumbers, tomatoes, and small chilli plants are a perfect choice for vertical gardening. However, you must make sure that they have enough sun, as this is the only way for them to grow properly. On the other hand, if you want your vertical garden to be on a decorative, ornamental side, you should opt for different kinds of plants. This is particularly important if your vertical garden will be built on a shaded wall. Plants that are appropriate for indoors are crucial here. Ferns, orchids, begonias, bromeliads, and philodendrons are just some of the options. Of course, you can always mix them for the best final result, so do it and you won’t go wrong!
There are different techniques you can choose from
In case you didn’t know, there are many different gardening techniques you can choose from. The first one is called trellising and it’s used for growing vining and branching plants. Caging is the second technique and it includes encircling a plant in a garden cage to keep it growing vertically. There is also staking, and it’s probably the most common vertical gardening technique out there. It’s very popular for growing plants that don’t vine since it gives extra support as they grow larger. Apart from these, there is also a hydroponic system that resembles a stacked tower garden. This system is completely beginner-friendly simply because it’s automated. It will self-water the plants whenever necessary. So, if you’re a novice at vertical gardening, you should definitely pick it as your primary technique!
It’s very easy to maintain
Vertical gardens are extremely easy to maintain, which is another fantastic benefit you shouldn’t overlook. However, the fact that it’s much easier than traditional gardening doesn’t mean that it’s completely maintenance-free. Watering is the first task you should master, so remember that watering plants at the base is better than watering over the top. It will prevent fungus growth and keep your plants healthy. Besides that, you must provide drainage as well. The hanging pots and vertical planters should have drainage holes that prevent overwatering. Installing an irrigation system can help a lot, too – but it won’t be necessary if you choose the aforementioned automated hydroponic system. Organic fertilizer is a must, so skip the chemical one and you won’t make a mistake!
It’s sustainable and eco-friendly
Last but certainly not least, vertical gardening is becoming increasingly popular because it’s sustainable and eco-friendly. Aside from being beautiful, vertical gardens are great for our environment, too. They are natural air filters that purify the air by taking the carbon dioxide out of it and replacing it with oxygen. Also, growing organic fruits and veggies is a great way for the entire family to embrace healthy eating habits and save loads of money in the long run. Besides that, it will reduce your carbon footprint as you won’t need to use your car to go to the supermarket every single day. Does it get better than that? We don’t think so!
As you can see, vertical gardening truly has so many magnificent advantages you should take into consideration. All you have to do is to choose a technique that suits your preferences and you’ll be off to a good start. Apart from being sustainable, a vertical garden saves a lot of space, is very easy to maintain, and is quite versatile when it comes to your choice of plants. Just give it a fair shot and you won’t regret it, that’s a promise!
