Once considered mythical wonders like the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, vertical gardens are now a breathtaking reality. Whether on interior or exterior walls, these green installations are more than just a trend. They transform entire spaces and improve the way we live and work. Discover what living walls can do for you.
The Origins of Green Walls
While no one knows exactly what the Hanging Gardens looked like, ancient descriptions mention an advanced irrigation system that allowed trees and plants to thrive. In modern times, watering is still the key factor when it comes to green walls.
French botanist Patrick Blanc revolutionized the concept by showing that plants can grow without soil. Many species anchor themselves to rock or develop roots in water. He pioneered the modern green wall system and has created stunning installations worldwide.
Where Can Living Walls Be Used?
They are not limited to large building exteriors. In fact, indoor vertical gardens are increasingly popular. They’re perfect for private homes, offices or as design highlights in public spaces.
Leonhards has an entire department dedicated to interior greenery and works with Vertiko, a leading expert in vertical garden systems. Together, we deliver custom solutions for reception areas, conference rooms or large-scale vertical installations in both commercial and private settings.
Plant selection depends on the location. Hanging plants are ideal for tall buildings, while succulents and mosses work well for decorative panels in restaurants or offices.
How Does a Vertical Garden Work?
Turning a plain wall into a vibrant one requires smart planning and proper installation.
Small setups can be DIY, but automated and more complex systems should be handled by professionals. The vertical arrangement of plants, watering systems and support structures must be installed correctly to prevent building damage.
Special modules, pockets or panels are used depending on the design. These are filled with a substrate and secured using fleece, stone wool or moss to hold the soil. The plants are placed close together to create a full, lush appearance right from the start.
A moisture barrier is installed between the plant system and the wall to prevent dampness and mold. Ventilation is also key. These extra precautions help protect the structure.
Irrigation is usually automated. Water or nutrients flow through the system several times a day, eliminating the need for manual watering. Occasional pruning and pest checks are part of the maintenance routine.
Source: Vertiko GmbH
Due to this somewhat more complex structure, the preparation for a living wall takes a little longer than if, for example, you just push planters into the company foyer. However, once everything is installed, it blooms immediately because indoor living walls are only planted with plants that are already thriving. This is done at very close intervals to create a lush, green picture.
The hanging system for a plant wall requires careful maintenance: watering is usually automatic and is opened several times a day. The moisture (or fertilizer) then simply trickles over all levels and conventional watering is no longer necessary.
From time to time, plants need to be pruned or the plant needs to be checked for pests. If you work with experts in wall greening, you are on the safe side when it comes to maintaining your wall garden.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Living Walls
There is no fixed rule. Among other things, it depends on the lighting conditions in the room, the customer’s wishes and also the budget. A cost estimate is helpful here.
Indoor plants such as ferns, mosses and warm house plants that can cope with relatively high ambient temperatures are popular. These include philodendrons and climbing figs. Even herbs such as basil can grow directly on the wall.
Of course, a green wall like this looks great. It becomes even more spectacular when the plants are arranged graphically or in color. Accents with individual, special plants are also a popular design feature – perhaps a purple splash of color in an otherwise monochrome wall garden.
As the vertical gardens can be supplied with sufficient light using special metal halide lamps, even semi-shaded areas are no problem. For example, you could have a wall in your semi-dark seminar room or the back of your restaurant greened to create more friendliness and better air conditions.
Source: Vertiko GmbH
Advantages and Disadvantages of Living Walls
Benefits
- Purify the air by removing dust and pollutants
- Increase oxygen and humidity for healthier indoor climate
- Create visual comfort and reduce stress
- Improve acoustics by absorbing sound
- Bring nature into indoor spaces, enhancing well-being
- Make a strong visual impression and strengthen brand identity
Drawbacks
- Higher installation costs depending on the system
- Risk of mold if not properly installed and ventilated
- Regular fertilization needed for soil-free systems
Conclusion
Vertical gardens bring the outdoors inside. They purify the air, improve health, add beauty and boost the atmosphere. Whether subtle or dramatic, they make any space more vibrant.
Work with professionals to ensure proper installation and long-lasting results. The most important factor is a safe barrier between the wall and the greenery.
Leonhards and Vertiko are your go-to partners for vertical garden solutions. Get in touch and let us help you turn your wall from gray to green. If you’re planning an outdoor space instead, we’ve got you covered there too.