How to Build a Vertical Garden

Gardening is a fun and healthy hobby, that is a great way to improve your home’s landscape and aesthetic. Learning how to build a vertical garden is essential for many people who aren’t blessed with large patches of land or garden.If you’re living in an apartment or a small space with minimal room for planting, then this is the perfect solution for you.

Vertical gardens are easy to build, and they can add a lot of color and life to any space.

Decide What You Want To Grow

Vertical gardens are possible for a vast array of plants, including vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers. The first step is to decide what you want to grow.

Once you have decided on the plants to include, you can begin planning the structure and layout of your garden. There are many different ways to create a vertical garden, so make sure to choose the option that will work best for your plants and space.

Pick the Best Space for Your Garden

When selecting a location for your vertical garden, it is important to take into account where the sun shines and the amount of shade provided by surrounding vegetation.

The garden should be in an area that receives plenty of sunlight, especially in the morning, in order to ensure good plant growth. However, if there are large outcrops of vegetation nearby, make sure to leave enough space for the garden so that it does not become overwhelmed by shade.

Setting Up Your Vertical Garden

The vertical garden has three basic structural components, a frame, a plastic sheet, and fabric.

Deciding on a Frame

To make the frame, you first have to pick the material.Wood and metal are both common.Wood is generally more malleable and easy to work with.Metal can provide a lot more visual appeal, it also tends to be more durable.

You can decide on any dimensions and cut your material accordingly. Then, drill some holes in your material to fit them together. Finally, nail or screw the frame to the wall.

Adding a Plastic Sheet

The next step is to attach the plastic sheet. We recommend using a clear plastic sheet so the plants can get plenty of light. Cut the sheet to the same size as the frame and attach it with some screws or nails.

Picking the Right Fabric

Finally, attach the fabric. We recommend using a breathable fabric like cotton or linen so the plants can get plenty of air. Cut the fabric to the same size as the frame and attach it with some staples or pins.

Creating an Irrigation System

A proper irrigation system is key to keeping your plants healthy and growing. There are a few different ways to set up an irrigation system for your vertical garden.

Here below is a useful video that gives a good visual of what a good irrigation system looks like:

Drip System

One option is to use a drip system. A drip system uses tubing that runs from the top of the garden to the bottom, with emitters placed at intervals along the way. This system slowly releases water directly to the roots of the plants, which helps to conserve water and prevents runoff.

Soaker Hose

Another option is to use a soaker hose. A soaker hose is a rubber hose that has small holes drilled in it. When connected to a water source, the water seeps out of the holes and directly onto the soil below. This method is also effective at conserving water, and it warms the soil around the plants.

No matter which method you choose, make sure you install your irrigation system before planting your vertical garden.

Fertilising Your Plants

Fertilising your vertical garden is easy. You can use regular garden fertiliser, or you can buy a specific fertiliser for vertical gardens.

Garden fertiliser comes in either liquid or granular form, and you’ll need to follow the instructions on the package to determine how much to use. Generally, you’ll want to fertilize once a month, but make sure to read the package directions carefully.

If you’re using a liquid fertiliser, mix it with water according to the instructions, then pour it into a watering can and water your plants with it.

For granular fertilisers, sprinkle them around the base of the plants, being careful not to get any on the leaves. You can mix it with the potting soil before planting your plants.

Place Your Plants and Design the Look

There are a few ways to insert plants into a vertical garden. One option is to use a soil mix and insert the plants directly into the soil. Another way is to use a growing medium like moss or coco coir and insert the plants into that. You can also use a hydroponic system to grow the plants in water.

Whichever way you choose, make sure to pack the growing medium or soil tightly around the plants so they don’t fall out. As for how you want them to look, it’s up to you! You can create any design you want, or use a premade design as a template. 

Just make sure to keep the aesthetic in mind when choosing your plants and arranging them. 

Here is a video that gives some great examples of what you can grow to start and get some experience.

Build a Vertical Garden Today

Vertical gardens are great versatile options that are becoming more popular for many aspiring green thumbs. They can quickly add some life to any corner of your apartment or patio. Whether you want to grow vegetables, fruits, or flowers, there are many different types of plants and ways you can build a vertical garden. 

So start experimenting today there is nothing like the satisfaction that comes from growing your own plants!