Green Wall 101 a short course on everything you need to know

What is a Green Wall?

A Living green wall, or sometimes referred to as an ecowall, green wall, vertical garden or living wall is a structure that’s comprised of plant panels in free-standing form or attached to a physical wall.

You may be wondering how plants could live in a vertical setup. The answer is that they’re grown via hydroponics, or inserted into a medium and placed vertically instead of horizontally.

How Does a Green Wall Work?

A green wall is about the same as any wall in terms of structure, except they contain flowers and plants.

Vertical gardens will have different functions depending on what’s installed. Some are fully automated, which means the plants will be watered in set times or following a schedule, while others will require the good old manual touch.

Green walls can definitely become a boon for businesses. It can be created to absorb pollution and carbon dioxide and provide clean oxygen. Others can be installed as a natural noise dampener. It’s a proven fact that individuals feel and work better in an environment where nature can be easily accessed.

Interested in having living walls installed in your office or home? CLIENT specializes in large projects for corporations, architects and construction companies around Australia. You can get a quote for ecowalls you can call your own!

Improves Air Quality

Plants, by themselves are organisms that can combat air pollution. Its mechanism is such that it takes carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and turns it into oxygen. Furthermore, plants can filter the air and absorb and clean pollutants.

Studies have discovered that green walls can reduce particulate matter by as much as 60 percent and nitrogen dioxide by as much as 40 percent.

Reduces Energy Costs

Urban landscapes have a higher heat temperature compared to rural areas, which makes for a higher energy demand and costs.

Living walls can be constructed strategically to ward off direct sunlight and provide shade. Plant surfaces are unlike concrete and brick in that they reflect the sun’s rays instead of absorbing them. This equates to active cooling even in the heat of summer and help bring energy costs down.

Also, the space gets added insulation thanks to the panel’s growth media so heat won’t escape easily in winter.

Diminishes Noise Levels

In Europe and North America plants are used to reduce vehicle noise in roads and freeways. A green wall with vegetation can naturally absorb high frequency sounds while the structure takes care of the low frequency waves.

Adds Aesthetic Value and Protection

When it comes to beauty, nature is hard to beat. A lush and healthy green wall can definitely add much-needed texture and color in any space. What’s more, green walls won’t go out of fashion.

Changing temperatures inevitably lead to materials that constantly contract and expand, which then causes fissures, cracks and damage. An exterior living wall can lessen extreme fluctuations in temperature by protecting the structure and its inhabitants from harmful UV rays and keeping out water during heavy rains.

Increases Property Value

Green walls add to LEED program points in terms of efficient irrigation and low water usage. Companies show their commitment to contributing to a greener planet and enjoy a side benefit of increasing property value by lowering its carbon footprint.

Boosts Employee Morale

Workers can benefit from plants just by having them close by. Studies have confirmed that there’s a better sense of well-being and job satisfaction in work environments that integrate natural settings.

Furthermore, the addition of green walls will make employees feel the company has their health and best interests in mind.

What Kind of Plants Can Be Used in a Vertical Garden?

Vertical gardens are usually constructed using hydroponic systems and drip irrigation method.

The plants that go into a living wall could be different, depending on design and purpose. Indoor living walls could have tropical plants located in the Southern Hemisphere, while outdoor systems could depend on the building’s climate zone.

Some species thrive in green walls, particularly the most tolerant ones. Some wither quickly without water, while others have a sort of a ‘grace period’ before degrading and adapting to the environment.

What are the Different Systems of a Living Wall?

Green walls fall into either freestanding or panel and tray category, which means there’s always an option when you want to integrate them into your space.

Panel systems use pre-grown plants that are hardy and can thrive in virtually any climate. Tray systems use pre-grown plants that are installed in the wall and made into living art. Freestanding walls are the easiest to change in terms of location and plant variety.

How Can I Use Green Walls?

Living green walls can be used virtually anywhere, with restaurants being the exception. Large commercial developments and garden projects in particular have the most to gain from an ecowall.

Buildings and offices can put up green walls either indoors or outdoors. Public sectors reap the environmental benefits of a living wall and enjoy reduced CO2 emissions.

Lastly, vertical gardens can be a great fit for any home as they’re versatile and can be installed indoors and on outside spaces.

How Can I Maintain a Green Wall?

Living walls will require maintenance and usually come with a warranty. Care can be managed by the provider depending on the client’s preference. The first few months after installation is particularly important due to the timing and irrigation aspects.

Most systems employ a drip irrigation system, which means the plants get watered via automation and set to minimize waste. Recirculation tanks and direct irrigation are alternative options as well.