Vertical gardening is a creative and innovative way of growing potted plants in an upward direction. It’s a perfect solution for gardeners who have limited space or want to add a unique touch to their outdoor or indoor spaces.
Vertical gardens can take many forms and sizes, depending on your gardening needs. This guide will give you DIY vertical garden ideas and take you through the process of creating your own DIY vertical garden, from choosing the right plants to planning, setting up, and maintaining it.
Types of Vertical Gardens
Wall-Mounted Gardens
Wall-mounted gardens are attached to an exterior or interior wall, making them a perfect option for small spaces or areas with limited floor space. They can be mounted on any solid surface and come in various materials, including metal, wood, or plastic. Wall-mounted gardens are also an excellent option for growing fresh herbs, vegetables, and flowers.
Freestanding Gardens
Freestanding gardens are stand-alone structures that can be placed anywhere in your outdoor space. They’re usually made of metal or wood and come in various shapes and sizes. Freestanding gardens can be used to create a vertical herb or vegetable garden or to display a collection of flowering plants.
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Hanging Gardens
Hanging gardens are suspended from a wall, roof, or balcony using chains, ropes, or wires. Hanging planters are ideal for small spaces, such as balconies, patios, or porches, and are often used to create a living wall of flowering plants. Hanging gardens come in various materials, including wire baskets, metal containers, and fabric pockets.
Tiered Garden
Tier gardens, also known as multi-level gardens, are a type of freestanding garden that consists of several shelves or levels. Each tier can be used to grow different types of plants, creating a diverse, visually stunning, and lovely vertical garden. Tier gardens are ideal for small spaces or areas with limited floor space. When choosing a tiered garden, consider the height, width, and depth of each tier, as well as the overall size of the garden.
Window Boxes
Window boxes are a type of hanging garden that can be mounted on the exterior of a window. They’re an excellent option for those who live in apartments or have limited outdoor gardening space. Window boxes are easy to install and can be fitted to most windows, making them a popular choice for those who want to bring some greenery into their home. They’re also easy to maintain and can be removed for cleaning or changing the plants.
Bloem 477245-1001 Classic Deck Rail Box Planter, 4 gal Capacity, Chocolate, 9 in H
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DIY Vertical Garden Ideas
Vertical gardening is a great way to bring a touch of nature to any space, big or small. The best part is, you don’t have to be a professional gardener to create a beautiful and thriving vertical garden.
With a little creativity and some basic tools, you can easily make your own wall planter at home. Popular materials for making vertical gardens include trellises, cages, and stakes. Here are a few DIY vertical garden ideas to inspire you:
- Pallet Garden: Repurpose a wooden pallet into a beautiful and functional vertical garden. Simply attach pots or planters to the slats of the pallet and plant your favorite herbs, flowers, or vegetables.
- Mason Jar Wall: Turn a blank wall into a stunning and practical herb garden using mason jars. Attach the jars to the wall using hooks or wire, fill them with soil and plants, and you’re done.
- Wine Crate Garden: Wine crates are another great material to use for a vertical garden. Attach the crates to the wall and fill them with soil and plants for a rustic and charming look.
- PVC Pipe Garden: Using PVC pipes is a cost-effective solution for those who want to build their own PVC pipe vertical garden. PVC pipes are lightweight, sturdy, and versatile, making them an ideal material.
- Cedar Vertical Garden: The cedar pickets are durable and resistant to rot, making them an good material for outdoor use. To create the garden, attach the pickets to a wall or fence in a desired pattern, and plant small herbs, succulents, or flowers in the pockets between each picket.
- Clay Pot Vertical Garden: This project involves stacking clay pots of varying sizes to create a stunning garden. The clay pots provide good drainage and insulation for the plants, making them a perfect choice for this vertical garden.
Choosing the Right Plants for Vertical Gardening
Sunlight Requirements
Different plants have different sunlight requirements, so choose plants that are appropriate for your location. Some plants thrive in full sun, while others prefer partial shade.
Watering and Drainage Considerations
Plants in a vertical garden will be exposed to different watering and drainage conditions than those in a traditional garden. For example, ferns and ivies need a lot of water, while succulents and cacti are more drought-tolerant. Choose plants that are suitable for your environment.
Soil and Fertilization
Soil and fertilizer are important considerations when planting in a vertical garden. Make sure to use soil and fertilizer that are suitable for your plants. Choose high-quality potting soil that is well-draining.
Planning Your Vertical Garden
Location and Space Requirements
Make sure to choose a spot suitable for the size and type of garden you want to create. Consider the amount of sunlight your vertical garden will receive and choose a location that provides the right amount of sun for the plants you’ve chosen. Research the specific requirements of the plants you’re growing.
Choosing the Right Container
When selecting a container, consider the size and weight of the container, as well as the size and weight of the plants you’re growing. Wall-mounted gardens require containers that are lightweight and easy to mount, while freestanding gardens can use heavier containers that can stand on their own.
Some container materials, such as ceramic, cement, or clay, may be too heavy for vertical gardening. Most growers choose lighter-weight materials such as plastic, wire, or wood. Ensure the container has drainage holes.
Deciding on the Layout and Design
Consider the plants you want to include, the shape and size of your container, and the overall look you want to achieve.
The layout of your vertical garden will depend on the size and shape of your space, as well as the number and size of the plants you’re growing. You can create a symmetrical design, or a more organic and asymmetrical design, depending on your personal style and the look you want to achieve.
When deciding on the design, take into account the height of your plants and how they will grow. Some plants will grow taller, while others will spread out horizontally. You can also alternate between taller and shorter plants to create visual interest and depth.
Consider the color scheme of your vertical garden. Choose plants with complementary colors, or create a monochromatic look by selecting plants with similar hues. You can also choose plants with different textures and leaf shapes to add depth and interest to your design.
Setting Up Your Vertical Garden
Mounting the Garden
Wall-mounted gardens require sturdy and secure mounting systems to hold the containers in place. You can choose from various mounting systems, including brackets, shelves, or vertical garden wall planters. When selecting a mounting system, keep in mind the weight of your container and the type of wall you’re mounting it on.
Before mounting your garden, clean the wall, removing all debris. If necessary, clean the wall with soap and water to remove any dirt or grime. Then, follow the instructions for your chosen mounting system to securely attach your containers to the wall.
Mount your garden at the right height to ensure easy access for watering and maintenance. For wall-mounted gardens, mount the containers at an easily reachable height.
Freestanding gardens can be mounted on a stand or tripod or placed directly on the ground. For freestanding gardens, choose a level and sturdy surface, and make sure the stand or tripod is securely in place.
Hanging gardens can be mounted on a hook, bracket, beam, or suspended from a ceiling. When mounting a hanging garden, make sure to choose a secure location that can support the weight of the containers and plants.
Planting the Plants
Prepare your plants by removing damaged or diseased leaves and roots, and loosening the root ball if necessary. Then, fill your container with the appropriate soil mixture, taking into account the specific needs of your plants.
Arrange your plants in the container, taking into account the size and growth habits of each plant. Space your plants evenly and leave enough room for growth. Avoid crowding the plants, as this can lead to competition for water and light.
Once your plants are arranged, begin filling in the container with soil, gently tamping down the soil to secure the plants in place. Fill the container and water the plants thoroughly. After watering, check the plants to ensure they are securely in place and make any necessary adjustments.
Keep an eye on your plants in the days and weeks following planting to ensure they are adjusting well to their new environment. If necessary, adjust the irrigation or water level, and check for any signs of pests or disease.
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Irrigation and Watering System
For wall-mounted and freestanding vertical gardens, you can use a drip irrigation system to deliver water right to the plant’s roots. This system is efficient and helps conserve water, as it only delivers water where it is needed. You can also use a self-watering system that has a built-in water reservoir, which helps to ensure your plants receive a consistent supply of water.
For hanging gardens and vertical planters, you can use a watering can or hose to water your plants. Be careful not to over-water your hanging gardens, as the excess water can spill out of the container and cause damage to your walls or flooring.
Regardless of the type of system you choose, monitor your plants regularly and adjust the irrigation as needed, based on the weather conditions and the specific needs of your plants.
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Maintenance and Care of Vertical Gardens
Pruning and Trimming
Regular pruning helps to promote healthy growth and prevent plants from becoming overcrowded or sprawling. It also helps to control the overall size and shape of your garden and keep it neat and tidy.
When pruning, focus on removing dead, yellow, or damaged leaves and stems, as well as any shoots growing in an unwanted direction. Pruning also helps to encourage bushier growth and the production of more flowers and fruit.
Be careful not to over-prune your plants, as this can weaken them and make them more susceptible to disease and pests. Instead, focus on removing only what is necessary to keep your plants healthy and growing.
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Watering and Fertilizing
Adequate watering and fertilization are crucial for maintaining the health of your vertical garden. The amount and frequency of watering your plants will depend on the type of plants you have, the size of your garden, and the climate you live in.
When watering your vertical garden, be sure to water thoroughly, allowing the water to reach the roots of all your plants. Over-watering can cause root rot, while under-watering can stress out plants and cause wilting.
In addition to watering, fertilize your plants regularly to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. Choose a fertilizer specifically designed for the type of plants you have and follow the recommended application instructions.
For example, succulent plants may require a fertilizer that is higher in potassium, while flowering plants may require a fertilizer that is higher in phosphorus. It’s also a good idea to use a slow-release fertilizer, which will give your plants a steady supply of nutrients over time.
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Pest and Disease Control
Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and take action if you notice any problems. Pests and diseases can be a common problem for vertical gardeners, as plants grown in close proximity to each other are more susceptible to these issues.
To prevent pest and disease problems, choose plants resistant to the types of pests and diseases that are common in your area. Regular inspections of your vertical garden can also help to detect problems early on before they have a chance to spread.
Practice good maintenance and care to prevent pests and diseases, including regular inspections, proper watering, and removing any diseased or dead plant material promptly.
If you do notice pests or diseases affecting your plants, there are a variety of control methods you can use. For example, you may want to use a pesticide or fungicide, or you may prefer to use natural control methods, such as companion planting, neem oil, or garlic spray.
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Winter Care
If you live in an area with cold winters, take steps to protect your vertical garden from harsh weather conditions.
For wall-mounted or freestanding gardens, you may need to cover them with frost blankets or clear plastic or move them to a sheltered location during the winter months. If your garden is attached to a wall, ensure that the wall is well-insulated or heated to prevent the plants from being damaged by the cold.
For hanging gardens, you may need to remove the plants and bring them indoors during the winter or cover them with frost blankets. If you’re leaving the plants in place, ensure they are well-protected from the wind and cold.
Other cold-protecting strategies include using an internal heating system behind the vertical garden, uplighting, or using incandescent Christmas lights to provide gentle warmth to keep your plants warm and cozy without damaging them.
Make Your Own Vertical Garden with Wilco Farm Stores
If you’re ready to start, head to your nearest Wilco Farm Store to shop for everything you need to bring your vision to life. With a wide selection of containers, irrigation systems, and gardening tools, Wilco Farm Stores has everything you need to get started. Don’t let limited space hold you back from growing your own DIY vertical herb garden. Start planning your vertical garden today!
