Everything you need to know before purchasing your Green Wall!

What are green walls and why should you care about them?

With so many advantages, it’s no wonder that green walls are becoming more popular and accessible for both commercial and residential spaces. However, not all green walls are created equal. There are different types of green walls that vary in design, installation, maintenance, and cost. In this guide, we will explore the different varieties of green walls and help you choose the best one for your space and needs.

Living Green Wall Varieties

Manufactured Living Green Wall Systems

There are multiple varieties of systems from manufacturers such as GSky, Florafelt, Habitat Horticulture, and various others. They each have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to designing, building, and maintaining each system.

Environmental Conditions Required for a Living Green Wall

In order to keep your living green wall looking lush and vibrant, you need to make sure that the environment can support hundreds to thousands of tropical plants.

Temperature

Plants have optimal temperature ranges for their growth and development, which vary depending on the plant species and origin. Generally, green walls do well in moderate temperatures, between 59°F and 77°F. Extreme temperatures, either too hot or too cold, can cause stress, damage, or death to the plants. If the green wall is indoors, it should be kept away from sources of heat or cold such as air vents or doors that are constantly being used. Doing so makes conditions volatile causing plants to stress out. If the green wall is outdoors, it should be protected from frost, snow, hail, or strong winds.

Humidity

Plants need moisture in the air to prevent water loss from their leaves and to facilitate gas exchange. Different plants have different humidity preferences, ranging from low to high. Generally, green wall plants need moderate to high humidity, between 40% and 80% (The average indoor environment sits around 40%). Low humidity can cause the plants to wilt, dry, or brown, while high humidity can cause the plants to rot, mold, or attract pests. If the green wall is indoors, it may need a humidifier or a misting system to increase the humidity, or a dehumidifier or a fan to decrease the humidity.

Air Flow

Plants need fresh air to breathe and to prevent the buildup of harmful gases, such as carbon dioxide, ethylene, or volatile organic compounds like formaldehyde. Good air circulation also helps to regulate the temperature and humidity, and to prevent the spread of diseases and pests. Generally, green walls need adequate air circulation, but not too strong or too weak. Too strong air circulation can cause the plants to dry out, break, or fall off, while too weak air circulation can cause the plants to suffocate, stagnate, or decay.

Water Quality

Best practices would tell you to use filtered, distilled, or rain water to ensure the plants don’t get damaged. Most of the time, purified water is not conveniently available but that is ok. As long as there are not extreme levels of chlorine, fluoride, or other contaminates, using tap water from the main waterline should be good enough but the risk of damage still remains slightly.

Lighting

Plants need light to perform photosynthesis, which is the process of converting light energy into chemical energy for growth and survival. Different plants have different light requirements, ranging from low to high. Generally, green walls need at least 6 hours of indirect or artificial light per day, and more if the plants are sun-loving. The light should be evenly distributed and not too intense or too dim. If the green wall is indoors, it may need supplemental lighting, such as LED or fluorescent lamps, to provide adequate light.

Understanding Lighting for Plants

Light is one of the most important factors for plant health, as it affects the photosynthesis, growth, flowering, and coloration of the plants. Different plants have different light needs, depending on their natural habitat, adaptation, and evolution. Lighting can be assessed by it’s intensity, quality, and duration.

Light Intensity

This is the amount of light energy that reaches a given area per unit of time. It is measured in units of lux, which is the amount of light that falls on one square meter per second. Light intensity varies depending on the source, distance, angle, and duration of the light. Generally, the higher the light intensity, the more photosynthesis and growth the plants can perform, but also the more water and nutrients they need. Too high or too low light intensity can cause stress, damage, or death to the plants.

Light Quality

This is the spectrum or color of the light that reaches the plants. It is measured in units of nanometers, which is the wavelength of the light. Light quality varies depending on the type, temperature, and filter of the light. Generally, the light quality affects the pigmentation, flowering, and dormancy of the plants.

Color Temperature: Color temperature is a characteristic of visible light that has important applications in lighting, photography, videography, and other fields. It refers to the hue of light as perceived by the human eye and is measured in Kelvin (K).

• Warm Colors: Lower color temperatures (around 2700K to 3000K) are described as “warm” and appear more yellowish-white to red. These colors are often associated with coziness and are commonly used in living spaces.
• Cool Colors: Higher color temperatures (above 5000K) are called “cool” and appear bluish-white. These are akin to daylight and are used for a more energetic and alert atmosphere.

Light Quality and Color Rendering: The quality of light also involves its ability to render colors accurately, which is referred to as the Color Rendering Index (CRI). A higher CRI means that the colors of objects under the light will appear more natural.

Practical Implications:

• Warm Light: It’s closer to the infrared spectrum and is often used in residential and hospitality settings for a relaxing ambiance.
• Cool Light: It’s closer to the blue end of the spectrum and is preferred for task lighting in offices and schools where high concentration is required.6

Light Duration

This is the length of time that the plants are exposed to light per day. It is measured in units of hours or photoperiod. Light duration varies depending on the season, latitude, and artificial lighting. Generally, the light duration affects the flowering, fruiting, and dormancy of the plants. Different plants have different light duration requirements, depending on their photoperiodism, which is the response to the length of day and night.

How to Determine What Lighting Your Green Wall Needs

To determine the light needs of the plants, it is useful to observe their natural habitat, their growth habit, and their signs of stress. Here are some tips to do so:

Natural Habitat

Plants that are native to tropical, subtropical, or equatorial regions tend to need more light than plants that are native to temperate, boreal, or polar regions. Ones that are native to arid, desert, or alpine regions tend to need more light than plants that are native to humid, wetland, or forest regions. Plants that are native to high altitude, exposed, or sunny locations tend to need more light than plants that are native to low altitude, sheltered, or shady locations.

Growth Habit

Plants that have large, broad, or dark green leaves tend to need less light than plants that have small, narrow, or light green leaves. Ones that have thick, succulent, or hairy stems or leaves tend to need more light than plants that have thin, delicate, or smooth stems or leaves. Plants that have colorful, showy, or fragrant flowers or fruits tend to need more light than plants that have inconspicuous, dull, or odorless flowers or fruits.

Signs of Stress

Plants that receive too little light tend to show signs of etiolation, which is the elongation and weakening of the stems and leaves. This is because they are desperately trying to find a source of sunlight. They may also show signs of reduced growth, flowering, or fruiting. Plants that receive too much light tend to show signs of scorching, which is the burning and browning of the edges and tips of the leaves. They may also show signs of wilting, which is the loss of turgor and the drooping of the stems and leaves. They may also show signs of reduced growth, flowering, or fruiting.

What Plants do Best in Living Green Walls

There are many plant species that can be used in green walls, depending on the type, design, and location of the green wall, as well as the personal preference and taste of the user. However, some plant species are more suitable and adaptable than others, as they have certain characteristics that make them thrive in vertical gardens. Some of these characteristics include:

• Low to moderate water and nutrient needs
• High tolerance to drought and heat
• High resistance to pests and diseases
• Slow to moderate growth rate
• Compact and trailing habit
• Evergreen and perennial nature
• Attractive and varied foliage, flowers, or fruits

Here are some examples of plant species that do well in green walls, with visuals and difficulty levels:

How do you take care of living green walls?

Maintaining living green walls can be a full time job depending on the size and complexity of the structure. In this section I will go over best practices for watering, pruning, fertilizing, and pest control for your living green wall.

Living Green Wall Irrigation

Irrigation, or watering, is very important. Your green wall may have an automatic drip irrigation system where It waters each plant at a set interval. Or you may need to hand-water your green wall with a hose or a watering can.

Pruning and Trimming Living Green Wall Plants

Trimming your plants is also essential. Pruning shapes the green wall and controls the plant growth. Removing dead or diseased foliage encourages new and healthy growth. Pruning prevents the plants from becoming too heavy or dense which could affect the green wall’s stability and appearance over time.

To prune your green wall, you need sharp and clean scissors or shears. Prune your green wall regularly, at least once every three months. Do it more often if the plants grow fast or become unruly. Cut off any dead, yellow, brown, or damaged leaves or stems. Cut off any flowers or fruits as well because they may drain the plant’s energy. Trim any excess or unwanted growth. It may shade out or crowd other plants. It may also extend beyond the green wall boundaries. Create a uniform and balanced look. Maintain the natural shape and character of the plants to ensure your living green wall looks it’s best at all times!

Fertilizing Your Living Green Wall

Fertilizing is another important aspect. It provides the plants with the nutrients they need. It helps them thrive and flourish. Fertilizing can prevent nutrient deficiencies, diseases, and pests. However, fertilize sparingly and carefully. Too much or too little fertilizer can harm the plants and the environment.

If you have an automatic irrigation system, use a liquid fertilizer. It should be compatible with your system and your plants. Granular fertilizers have the potential of clogging drippers and filters if they are not completely cleared out of the system before they dry. Follow the label instructions. Dilute it according to the recommended ratio. Check the pH level of the water and the soil or growing medium. Adjust it if necessary. The ideal pH level for most plants is between 6 and 7. Fertilize your green wall once every two or three months. Do it more often if the plants show nutrient deficiency. Signs include yellowing, wilting, stunted growth, or becoming pale.

If you need to hand-water your green wall, use a liquid or a granular fertilizer. It should be suitable for your plants. Follow the label instructions. Apply it according to the recommended amount and frequency. Avoid applying fertilizer to the leaves or stems. This could cause burns or damage. Water your green wall thoroughly after fertilizing. Distribute the fertilizer evenly. and try to prevent salt buildup in the soil or growing medium.

Pest and Disease Control for Living Green Walls

Pest control is the final aspect. It protects the plants from pests. These include insects, mites, fungi, bacteria, and others. They could harm the plants or spread diseases. Pest control preserves the green wall’s aesthetic and sanitary quality. However, do pest control cautiously and responsibly. Some pesticides or chemicals could harm the plants, the people, or the environment.

To prevent pests, inspect your plants regularly. Look for any signs of damage, infection, or infestation. Remove any debris, dust, or dead leaves. They could harbor pests or diseases. Keep your green wall well-ventilated, well-lit, and well-watered. These conditions discourage pests.

If you notice any pests, identify them and treat them accordingly. Use the least toxic and most effective method. Options include manual removal, biological control, or organic or natural pesticides such as Safari or Suffoil. Avoid synthetic or chemical pesticides unless you are certified to use them and as a last option. They could harm the plants, the people, or the environment if used improperly. Follow the label instructions. Apply the pest control product carefully and sparingly. Wear protective gloves, goggles, and clothing. Wash your hands and tools thoroughly after use.

Budgeting for Your Green Wall Project

Budgeting is another important aspect of creating a living green wall. It involves estimating the costs and benefits of the project and allocating the necessary resources. Budgeting can help you plan, monitor, and control your expenses and revenues. It can also help you evaluate the feasibility, sustainability, and profitability or ROI of your green wall. Understand that living green walls are not cheap and are seen as an investment in the overall health of your space and the people occupying it.

To budget for a living green wall, you need to consider several factors. These include:

Green Wall Design Services

The design of your green wall will affect its cost and performance. You need to decide on the size, shape, location, orientation, structure, irrigation, drainage, lighting, ventilation, and plant selection of your green wall. You also need to consider the aesthetic, functional, and environmental goals of your project. The design should suit your site, budget, and preferences. You may need to consult a professional designer or engineer to help you with the design process.

Green Wall Installation

The installation of your green wall will involve labor, materials, equipment, and transportation. You need to estimate the time, cost, and quality of the installation. You also need to comply with the local building codes, regulations, and permits. A licensed contractor or installer may be necessary to help you with the installation process.

Green Wall Maintenance

The maintenance of your green wall will require regular care, monitoring, and repair. You need to estimate the frequency, cost, and scope of the maintenance as well as ensure the safety, health, and longevity of your plants and system. You may need to hire a qualified gardener or technician to help you with the maintenance process.

Contingencies

The contingencies of your green wall will cover any unexpected events, risks, or changes that may affect your project now and in the long run. You need to anticipate and prepare for any potential problems or opportunities. Allocate a contingency fund to cover any extra costs or loss of plants. You may need to revise your budget or plan accordingly.

Collaboration With Other Trades

The collaboration of your green wall will involve working with multiple trades, stakeholders, and partners. This can range from electricians, plumbers, insulation professionals, and other contractors. You need to communicate and coordinate effectively with them to make sure the process is seamless. You also need to negotiate and agree on the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of each party. Be sure to sign a contract or agreement to formalize the collaboration.

Conclusion

A green wall is a complex and rewarding project that requires careful planning, implementation, and evaluation. You need to consider various aspects such as design, materials, installation, maintenance, contingencies, and collaboration. By following the guidelines and best practices in this article, you can create a successful and sustainable green wall that will enhance your space and environment.

If you think you are ready to get started or need further assistance getting information for your green wall project, reach out today for a free consultation!