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Posts Tagged ‘self sufficiency’

5 Key Vertical Garden Factors to Consider for Your Home

fashionable indoor vertical garden Today, it is safe to say vertical gardens are the new “Black” to any modern day green garden ensemble.  The genesis of the “Green Wall” garden dates back to 1988 when French botanist, Patrick Blanc fathered and debuted his concept for the Museum of Science and Industry in Paris, France.

Now, thanks to the green movement vertical garden designs are exploring new innovative coordinates for people to discover and use for individual self-sufficiency and artistic expression. But before you “Plant for success,” you need to consider the following 5 key vertical gardening factors–here we go!

 

vertical garden on a patio facing the sun

SUNLIGHT

Plants are autotrophs, meaning that they make their own food. Specifically, they use sunlight, break it down through photosynthesis, inhale CO2 and release fresh oxygen for animals, you and I to breathe.

Ultimately, your vertical garden needs at least 4 hours of sunlight a day.  The best way to ensure this is to face your vertical garden south.

 

 

 

vertical garden near water WATER

To start the germination process, your seed needs water. The term “Germination” is defined as the process where the new plant in the seed emerges from its shell.  Water activates enzymes in seeds and encourages swelling and softening, which give it enough punch to push through and grow.  A great reminder is to keep your vertical garden near a hose or local water faucet.

 

 

REUSE CONTAINERS

If you want to avoid wasting new resources, reuse/recycle old two litre bottles, milk jugs or cans for plant containers.

You can also research vertical gardening companies such as Urbio.  This is one of many companies who offer highly affordable vertical gardening pucks and inserts made out of recycled plastic for vertical gardens.

 

 

 

close up on basil WHAT DO YOU WANT TO EAT?

If you are a beginner, start by planting something easy such as mint, chili or lettuce. If you’re looking for a challenge try purchasing broccoli, tomato or brussel sprout seeds.

You also want to consider the root depth. Carrots and beats require at least a foot and a half of soil to plant their roots while vegetables such as lettuce require a lower root depth.

 

 

 

clippers maintaining the garden PATIENCE IS MAINTENANCE

With all the excitement vertical gardening gives us it’s important to show discipline with garden maintenance. Make sure your vertical garden is bug free by planting natural plant flower pesticides, which will give you an enhanced visual beatification.

 

 

 

 

vertical garden on porch Summary

Vertical gardens are an excellent way to maximize your space at home while making a social statement.  Self-sufficiency is an art most Westerners have forgotten. To know how to garden is to know how to take care of you and your family–whether it’s vertical or horizontal.  Good luck!

Author

SC

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