In modern times, where space is increasingly scarce, nature is often left aside in our daily lives. However, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the freshness and beauty that a garden has to offer. If you're stuck with a compact living space, a vertical garden could be the perfect solution for bringing a bit of nature indoors. This article will show you how you can do this, even in small spaces.
Advantages of a Vertical Garden
Before we dive into the details of how to build one, it's good to know why a vertical garden is a great idea:
- Takes up less space: Compared to traditional gardens, vertical gardens take up much less horizontal space.
- Improves Air Quality: Plants act as natural air purifiers, improving the quality of the indoor environment.
- Aesthetics: A vertical garden can be a living work of art, adding color and vitality to your space.
- Low Maintenance: Once set up, the vertical garden generally requires less maintenance than a conventional garden.
Planning:
Location Choice:
First, identify the location where you want to install the vertical garden. It could be an empty wall in the living room, a corner of the balcony or even a space in your office.
Plant Selection
For best results, choose plants that adapt well to the indoor environment. Furthermore, it is advisable to choose species that require similar care in terms of light and water. Among some good options, you can consider succulents, ferns and ivy.
Necessary materials:
- Vertical structure (can be a lattice, a wooden structure or felt panels)
- Plants and their respective pots or planting bags
- Substrate
- Irrigation system (optional)
- Basic tools like hammer, nails, pruning shears, etc.
Assembly
Step 1: Prepare the Structure
First, prepare the vertical structure, which can be made from a variety of materials, including metal trusses or wooden frames. Then, make sure it is sturdy enough to support not only the weight of the plants, but also the substrate in which they will be planted.
Step 2: Installation
Initially, fix the structure to the chosen wall using screws and plugs that are suitable for the task. Once you've done this, if you're using a truss as a structure, take extra care to ensure it's level. Finally, ensure that the entire structure is firmly fixed to avoid any future problems.
Step 3: Preparation of the Vessels
Then, place the substrate in the pots or planting bags and insert the chosen plants.
Step 4: Position the Plants
Start positioning the pots or planting bags on the structure. Remember to consider each plant's light and water needs when deciding its location.
Step 5: Irrigation System
Although optional, a drip irrigation system can simplify maintenance. This is especially useful if you have a lot of plants or your garden is in a hard-to-reach location.
Maintenance
- Watering: Make sure plants receive the appropriate amount of water, which varies depending on the species.
- Light: Ensure plants receive sufficient light; if necessary, use artificial lights.
- Pruning and Cleaning: Remove dead leaves and prune plants as needed to keep them healthy.
- Nutrition: Add suitable fertilizers to keep the soil rich in nutrients.
The vertical garden is not only a practical solution for small spaces, but also a charming way to add a touch of nature to your indoor environment. With the proper planning and care, you can create a spectacular vertical garden that will be both a talking point and a peaceful retreat in your living space.
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