6 Factors for Vertical Garden Plant Selection

Creating a thriving vertical garden depends on six key factors that ensure your plants grow well and are easy to maintain. Here's what you need to know:

• Light Requirements: Match plants to the sunlight your wall receives (full sun, partial shade, or full shade).
• Water Needs: Group plants with similar water requirements and use efficient irrigation systems like drip irrigation.
• Soil and Nutrients: Use the right growing medium (e.g., coco coir or rockwool) and maintain soil pH between 6.0–7.0 for most plants.
• Growth Patterns: Choose plants based on their root types, climbing or trailing habits, and overall size to fit your vertical setup.
• Weather Tolerance: Select plants suited to your local climate, considering factors like wind, temperature, and USDA zones.
• Maintenance Requirements: Opt for plants with manageable pruning and care needs, and consider automated systems for easier upkeep.

Quick Overview

By focusing on these factors, you can design a vertical garden that’s both beautiful and practical. Whether you're growing herbs, vegetables, or decorative plants, these tips will help your garden thrive.

Living Retaining Wall - Plant Selection by Growth Habit

1. Light Requirements

The amount and quality of sunlight your plants get play a key role in their growth and health.

Measuring Sun Exposure

"Understanding the amount of sunlight your garden receives is crucial for successful plant growth and landscape design".

To figure out how much sunlight your garden gets, check at different times of the day - 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and 6:00 PM. Use time-stamped photos or a sunlight meter like the Luster Leaf 1875 Rapitest Suncalc, priced at $18.90.

Once you know the light levels, you can choose plants that thrive under those conditions.

Sun vs Shade Plants

Pick your plants based on the sunlight available in your garden:

Full Sun Plants:

• Aloe vera
• Sage
• Cherry tomatoes
• Spinach

Partial Shade Plants:

• Lettuce
• Chives
• Parsley
• Basil

Full Shade Plants:

• Watercress
• Lemon balm
• Violets
• Mint

Wall Direction and Light

The direction a wall faces affects how much sunlight it gets:

• South/Southwest-facing walls get the most direct sunlight, especially in the afternoon, making them perfect for plants that love the sun.
• East/West-facing walls receive bright, indirect light. East-facing walls get softer morning light, while west-facing walls endure stronger afternoon sun.
• North-facing walls get minimal direct sunlight, making them ideal for shade-friendly plants like ferns and moss.

For better light use, think about adding trellises:

• Orienting trellises east-to-west on the north side reduces shadows.
• A north-to-south orientation spreads light more evenly, though plants on the north side may get less sun.

Keep an eye on seasonal changes to ensure your plants continue to get the right amount of light.

2. Water Requirements

Low vs High Water Plants

Choosing plants based on their water needs is key to creating a low-maintenance and efficient vertical garden. Opting for drought-tolerant plants not only reduces the effort required but also minimizes the risks of pests and diseases.

Here’s a quick breakdown of plant categories by their water requirements:

Watering System Options

An effective irrigation system is essential for distributing water evenly while conserving resources. For instance, drip irrigation can cut water usage by as much as 80% compared to traditional methods.

Recommended Systems Based on Garden Size:

• For vertical gardens up to 50–80 m² (approximately 540–860 square feet), non-recirculating systems are usually sufficient.
• For larger spaces exceeding 860 square feet, recirculating systems with water collection capabilities are more efficient.

Seasons also play a big role in water usage. During summer, plants may require around 6 liters per square meter daily (roughly 0.15 gallons per square foot). In winter, this drops to about 1.5 liters per square meter per day (approximately 0.04 gallons per square foot).

Beyond choosing the right system, optimizing the growing media can further improve water efficiency.

Water Retention Methods

Pairing efficient irrigation systems with water retention techniques can significantly reduce water waste. Here are some effective strategies:

• Growing Media Mix: Combine 1 part coir pith with 2 parts soil to improve both water retention and aeration. Replace the coir every 2–3 years to maintain its effectiveness.
• Smart Irrigation Practices:
  • Water in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
  • Place drip emitters directly at the plant roots for targeted watering.
  • Regularly monitor soil moisture to avoid overwatering.
• Plant Layering:
  • Position drought-tolerant plants in areas with faster drainage.
  • Place water-loving plants in spots where moisture naturally collects.
  • Group plants with similar water needs together for easier management.

A great example of efficient water use in vertical gardening comes from Shawna Coronado, who created a drought-tolerant living wall using EarthBox® Junior™ systems. This setup allowed plants like basil, dusty miller, red salvia, rosemary, and sweet potato vine to thrive due to its built-in water reservoir.

3. Soil and Nutrients

Once you've optimized water delivery, the next step is managing soil and nutrients to keep your plants thriving.

Growing Media Types

The choice of growing medium plays a big role in water retention and nutrient delivery. Different media types offer unique benefits. Here's a quick rundown:

Soil pH Needs

Maintaining the right soil pH is crucial for nutrient absorption and overall plant health. Most vertical garden plants grow best in soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. However, specific plants have their own preferences:

If soil pH drops below 5.0, key nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus become unavailable to plants. To avoid this, test your soil regularly - especially in spring and fall - to maintain the best conditions for growth.

Fertilizer Methods

Vertical gardens have limited soil volume, which means nutrients can run out quickly. A good fertilization plan is essential. For example, the Lettuce Grow Farmstand system uses 95% less water than traditional gardens while still keeping nutrient levels in check.

Here are some tips for fertilizing effectively:

• Pick the Right Fertilizer
  • Slow-release granular fertilizers (e.g., 10-10-10) for steady feeding
  • Liquid fertilizers for rapid absorption
  • Organic options like compost tea for an eco-friendly approach
• Set a Fertilization Schedule
  • Apply granular fertilizers every three months
  • Use liquid fertilizers every 2–4 weeks during the growing season
  • Adjust frequency based on plant type and growth stage

"When feeding a vertical garden, natural methods are preferred over those that use synthetic chemicals. Chemical fertilizers provide quick results but have long-term negative effects on soil quality." - ChhajedGarden.com

For leafy greens and herbs, a bi-weekly fertilization schedule during peak growth periods often works well. Keep an eye on your plants - changes in leaf color or growth rate can indicate when adjustments are needed.

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4. Growth Habits

Root Types

When planning a vertical garden, understanding root systems is key to selecting the right plants for containers. Here’s a quick overview:

"When choosing plants for a vertical garden, keep in mind that plants with shallow roots, like annual flowers, vegetables, and herbs, will perform better in a container than perennials".

In addition to root systems, the way plants grow above the soil also plays a crucial role in shaping your garden.

Climbing vs. Trailing Plants

Plants generally grow in one of two ways - climbing or trailing - and each growth habit has its own needs and benefits:

• Climbing Plants
  These plants need support structures and some guidance to grow upward. They’re great for maximizing vertical space.
  Examples: Pole beans, peas, compact cucumbers.
• Trailing Plants
  These plants naturally cascade downward, making them ideal for hanging baskets. Regular pruning helps keep them tidy and thriving.
  Examples: Strawberries, trailing herbs, pothos.

"Trailing plants are beautiful additions to vertical gardens. Because they trail or hang, they have a beautiful lengthening effect that feels very organic and dramatic, especially along a vertical structure".

Pick growth habits that enhance your garden’s design. For instance, pothos leaves can grow from just 2 inches wide when trailing to over a foot wide when climbing.

Plant Size and Weight

Managing plant size and weight is essential to maintaining the integrity of your vertical garden. A well-designed vertical system can hold far more plants than traditional layouts. For example, a small urban balcony of about 40 ft² can support up to 30 vegetable plants in a vertical setup, compared to only 6-8 plants in a traditional garden.

To keep your structure stable and efficient:

• Use lightweight growing media.
• Place heavier plants closer to the bottom.
• Opt for bush or compact varieties.
• Ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging.
• Prune consistently to manage plant growth.

For perspective, a 4-foot vertical strawberry tower can support 40-50 plants, yielding 25-30 pounds of berries. That’s a huge leap compared to the 8-10 plants you’d typically grow in a ground-level garden.

5. Weather Tolerance

USDA Zone Selection

The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map is a handy tool for picking plants that thrive in your area.

To find your zone:

• Head to the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map website and enter your ZIP code.
• Use your zone number to select plants that match your local climate.

Keep in mind, microclimates can make a difference. For example, a south-facing wall-mounted garden could stay warmer than the general area, while a north-facing setup might need plants that can handle colder conditions. These factors play a big role in choosing plants that can endure varying environmental stresses.

Wind and Temperature

Vertical gardens are more exposed to wind and temperature swings, so plant selection is critical. Opt for plants that naturally handle these challenges:

"Perennials and conifers will be your best performers in cold weather. In winter, plants will go dormant or may freeze, so replacements might be needed in spring. Some great examples of plants that can survive freezing: Conifers, heuchera, Japanese feather grass, ivy, various year-round perennials, hellebores. There can be some dieback, that is expected." – PlantsOnWalls.com

Climate Protection

To shield your vertical garden from extreme weather, consider these practical steps:

• Use shade cloth to protect plants during heatwaves, water deeply at the base before high temperatures hit, and apply mulch to conserve moisture.
• Add about 2 inches of organic mulch to help stabilize soil temperatures.
• For colder weather, you can install heating elements or hot water tubing behind the garden wall for added warmth.

"Heat stress is compounded when other plant stressors like drought, wind, or intense sun are also present." – Nicole Sanchez, Horticulture, OSU Extension Service

For winter insulation in colder climates, try using bubble wrap supported by lumber edging. This method has shown success in places like Cleveland, Ohio, where heat from nearby buildings can help prevent freezing.

6. Care Level

Pruning Frequency

Keeping your plants trimmed and tidy is essential for their health and appearance, but the level of pruning required depends on the type of plant. Some plants demand regular attention, while others are content with minimal care. Here's a quick guide:

Disease Resistance

Choosing plants with natural resistance to pests and diseases is a smart way to ensure your garden stays healthy over time. Native plants are especially well-suited to resist local challenges, making them a reliable option.

To prevent common diseases, follow these tips:

• Space plants appropriately: Good air circulation helps reduce the risk of fungal issues.
• Water wisely: Focus on watering at the base of plants to keep leaves dry.
• Keep tools clean: Sanitize gardening tools between uses to avoid spreading infections.

"Just like your regular garden, your vertical garden requires ongoing maintenance."

• Jamie Papalia, Director of Vertical Gardens Australia

For pest-resistant options, consider lavender, basil, lemon balm, or marigold. These plants not only fend off pests but also add beauty and fragrance to your garden.

Lifespan Planning

When planning your vertical garden, think about the lifespan of your plants. Annuals are great for adding seasonal variety but need replacing every year, while perennials offer a longer-term, lower-maintenance solution.

To make maintenance easier:

• Install automated irrigation systems: These can help you monitor and manage water needs efficiently.
• Group plants by care needs: Keeping plants with similar requirements together simplifies their upkeep.

"Vertical gardening saves on water usage because water dripping from the top layer will also water plants below."

• Carrie Spoonemore, Co-creator of Park Seed's From Seed to Spoon app

A great example of effective planning is SingularGreen's vertical garden in San Vicente del Raspeig, Alicante. Their design included 15 low-maintenance plants, such as the rare Vella lucentina, proving that even delicate species can thrive with thoughtful preparation.

Lastly, because vertical gardens have limited soil, they often need more frequent watering. To optimize moisture, place drought-tolerant plants at the top, allowing water to trickle down to other layers.

Conclusion: Plant Selection Guidelines

Creating a thriving vertical garden comes down to six essential factors: light, water and soil, growth habits, weather resilience, and care requirements. Start by assessing your wall's sunlight exposure, keeping in mind how the orientation affects light throughout the day.

For healthy plants, use well-draining soil and ensure proper irrigation. These basics set the stage for vertical growth. Pick plants that naturally climb, cascade, or stay compact. Dwarf varieties are especially handy for maximizing vertical space while still being productive.

If your garden is outdoors, choose plants suited to your region's USDA zone and plan for seasonal changes. Mix cold-tolerant perennials with seasonal plants to keep your garden vibrant year-round. Opt for low-maintenance, weather-hardy options to make upkeep easier.

To simplify care, group plants with similar needs together. While vertical gardens generally demand less upkeep than traditional ones, adding an automated irrigation system can make things even easier.

Keep an eye on how your plants are doing and adjust care as needed. A successful vertical garden blends a variety of plants that are not only visually appealing but also practical and easy to maintain.

FAQs

How can I choose the best plants for the lighting conditions of my vertical garden?

To choose the best plants for your vertical garden, start by observing how much sunlight the area gets throughout the day. If the spot is mostly shaded, go with shade-tolerant plants. On the other hand, areas with bright, direct sunlight are perfect for sun-loving varieties. Not sure how much light your garden gets? A light meter can help! Measure the light in foot-candles: plants that thrive in low light typically need 150–250 foot-candles, while those that prefer brighter conditions do well with 300–400 foot-candles.

It’s also a good idea to group plants with similar light and growth needs together. This approach not only keeps your garden healthier but also makes caring for it much simpler.

How can I save water while maintaining a vertical garden?

To save water in your vertical garden, focus on smarter watering methods and selecting the right plants. Drip irrigation systems are a top choice because they deliver water directly to the roots, cutting down on evaporation and runoff. Another option is using self-watering pots or panels, which maintain consistent moisture levels with very little effort on your part.

For a more eco-conscious approach, try collecting rainwater to use for irrigation. You can also opt for drought-tolerant plants that naturally need less water to thrive. Don’t overlook drainage - proper drainage prevents waterlogging, keeping your plants healthy and happy. By using these techniques, you’ll have a water-efficient vertical garden that’s both sustainable and easy to maintain.

What are the best tips for choosing weather-resistant and low-maintenance plants for a vertical garden?

When planning a vertical garden that can handle the elements and requires minimal upkeep, there are a few important things to consider:

• Tough Plants: Pick resilient options like succulents, ferns, or native species. These plants can handle shifts in weather and need little attention.
• Vertical Growth: Look for plants that naturally grow upward, like climbing vines, or compact varieties that won't demand frequent trimming.
• Climate Match: Stick with plants that are well-suited to your local weather. This helps cut down on extra care or the need for added protection.
• Shared Needs: Group plants with similar light and water preferences. This makes caring for them easier and ensures they thrive together.

By focusing on these aspects, you can build a vertical garden that's not only low-maintenance but also enhances your space effortlessly.

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