How to Plan and Design a Vertical Garden

Just because you have a small garden – or even just a balcony – it doesn’t mean you can’t create a gorgeous outdoor space. Vertical gardens offer a brilliant solution for making the most of limited space, turning bare and boring walls into luscious displays of greenery.   

Whether you want to enhance your urban apartment or infuse your cosy garden with a touch of nature, a vertical garden has the potential to completely transform your space. In this blog, we’ll walk you through a simple process of planning and designing your own vertical garden, helping you achieve a beautiful and functional green wall.  

But first, what is a vertical garden?  

What is a Vertical Garden?  

A vertical garden, also known as a living wall, is where plants grow vertically on a wall or structure. It is an innovative gardening technique that maximises limited space and offers a unique way to bring greenery into your outdoor space.  

Vertical gardens are perfect for homeowners who have small gardens or balconies, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of gardening without requiring extensive floor space. Vertical gardens are further enhanced when paired with teak outdoor furniture, as the natural tones of the warm teak wood beautifully contrast with the lush greenery.  

Planning Your Vertical Garden  

Before diving into the design, careful planning is essential to ensure your vertical garden thrives. Follow these tips to get started: 

1. Ask Yourself What You Want to Achieve  

Start by defining your goals, as this will ensure you’re happy with the end result. Are you aiming for a decorative feature, a functional herb and vegetable garden, or a mix of both? Your objectives will help to guide plant selection, design, and layout decisions. 

2. Measure the Wall Space  

Next, measure the wall or vertical surface you plan to use. With accurate measurements, you can determine the size of the green wall frame and the amount of available space you have for plants.  

Be sure to consider the height and width of the wall to maximise your vertical garden’s potential.  

3. Inspect the Wall  

Make sure the wall is in good enough condition to support the weight of your vertical garden. Inspect the wall for any cracks, dampness, or structural issues that could compromise the security of the vertical garden. Address any problems before you install the wall. 

4. Build or Buy Your Green Wall Frame  

A green wall frame is what provides the structure needed to support your plants. You can either purchase a pre-made frame or create one yourself. DIY frames can be made from materials like wood, metal, or plastic and can be customised to fit your space and style.  

If you want to build the green wall frame yourself, make sure it is durable and can securely hold plant containers.  

Designing Your Vertical Garden  

Now that your plan is in place, it’s time for design. Here’s what you should consider: 

1. Choose Your Plants  

Select plants that will both thrive in your specific environment and meet your design preferences. Aim to create a diverse array of plants with different colours and textures for visual interest and aesthetic balance. It’s also important to consider factors such as sunlight exposure and maintenance requirements, as these will determine which plants are best suited to your vertical garden.  

2. Choose the Right Containers  

The containers or planters you use should fit the design of your green wall frame and provide adequate space for plant roots. You could consider options like pocket planters, hanging pots, or modular systems. Additionally, ensure the containers have adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.  

3. Plant Layout and Arrangement  

When planning the layout and arrangement of your plants, mix plant heights and textures to add depth and interest. Or why not consider using a grid pattern or staggered arrangement for a cohesive look? Don’t forget to consider furniture and ensure the plants have enough space to bloom and grow without becoming cramped.  

At Luxus, our teak folding table and teak folding garden chairs are designed to maximise space and offer stylish, functional solutions for compact areas. Allowing you to comfortably enjoy your garden space, our folding teak furniture is made to help you maintain an uncluttered and charming environment.   

4. Vertical Lighting  

If your vertical garden is in a shaded area, consider adding vertical lighting solutions such as LED grow lights to provide the light your plants need to thrive. Additionally, adjustable or timed lighting systems can help you control the amount of light your plants receive, effectively catering to their specific needs and enhancing their overall health.  

5. Finishing Touches  

Elevate the appearance of your vertical garden by making it truly unique with thoughtful finishing touches. Paint plant pots in colours that compliment your garden’s theme or install decorative elements like colourful tiles or hanging ornaments to introduce your personal flair and creativity to your vertical garden.   

These small details help to create a more engaging and customised space, beautifully reflecting your personal style and making your vertical garden the star of your space.   

What Will You Create?  

A vertical garden is a fantastic way to transform a small space into a vibrant, green oasis. By carefully planning and designing your garden, and complementing it with elegant teak outdoor furniture, you can create an outdoor space that is truly extraordinary.   

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or if you simply want to make the most out of your small outdoor area, a vertical garden offers a fun and innovative solution to infusing your space with the beauty of nature.   

Want to learn more about vertical gardens and the difference our teak furniture can make? Get in touch with our team today!