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'''Vertical gardening''' is a method of growing plants on a vertically suspended panel by using hydroponics. This technique is especially useful in urban settings where space is limited, as it allows for the cultivation of plants in a vertical, rather than horizontal, manner. Vertical gardening is also known as [[green wall]]s, living walls, or vertical farming. == History == The concept of vertical gardening has been around for centuries, with examples such as the Hanging Gardens of Babylon and the Roman pergolas. However, the modern vertical gardening system was invented by Stanley Hart White, a professor at the University of Illinois, in the 1930s. White patented his design in 1938, calling it "Vegetation-Bearing Architectonic Structure and System." The idea was further developed by Patrick Blanc, a French botanist and designer, in the late 20th century. Blanc's designs, known as "Le Mur Végétal" or "The Vertical Garden," gained international acclaim and popularized the concept of vertical gardening in modern architecture. == Benefits == Vertical gardening offers numerous benefits, including: *'''Space efficiency''': Vertical gardens allow for the growing of plants in a small footprint, making it ideal for urban environments where space is limited. *'''Improved air quality''': Plants naturally filter air pollutants and produce oxygen, improving the air quality in the surrounding area. *'''Energy conservation''': Vertical gardens can act as natural insulation, reducing the need for heating and cooling in buildings. *'''Noise reduction''': The foliage of vertical gardens can absorb and deflect noise, creating a more peaceful environment. *'''Aesthetic appeal''': Living walls can enhance the visual appearance of buildings and urban spaces, adding a natural and dynamic element to the design. *'''Increased biodiversity''': Vertical gardens can provide habitats for various plant species and small animals, promoting biodiversity in urban environments. == Types of Vertical Gardens == There are several types of vertical gardens, each with its own characteristics and installation methods: *'''Panel systems''': Modular panels containing growing media and irrigation systems are attached to a wall or freestanding structure. *'''Pocket systems''': Felt or fabric pockets filled with growing media are hung on a vertical surface, allowing plants to grow out of the pockets. *'''Trellis and wire systems''': Plants are trained to grow up a vertical support, such as a trellis, wire, or cable system. *'''Container systems''': Plants are grown in stacked or hanging containers attached to a vertical structure. *'''Hydroponic systems''': Plants are grown in nutrient-rich water without soil, often using [[hydroponic]] techniques such as [[NFT|nutrient film technique]] (NFT) or [[aeroponics]]. *'''Vertical aquaponics''': A combination of vertical gardening and [[aquaponics]], where fish waste provides nutrients for the plants grown vertically, and the plants filter the water for the fish. == Plant Selection == When choosing plants for a vertical garden, consider the following factors: *'''Light requirements''': Select plants that are suitable for the available light conditions (e.g., sun-loving plants for south-facing walls, shade-tolerant plants for north-facing walls). *'''Growth habits''': Choose plants with compact or trailing growth habits that will maintain a neat appearance on the vertical surface. *'''Water needs''': Group plants with similar watering requirements to ensure proper irrigation and prevent overwatering or underwatering. *'''Climate''': Pick plants that are well-suited to the local climate and can withstand temperature fluctuations. Some popular plant choices for vertical gardens include: *'''Ferns''': Boston fern, bird's nest fern, maidenhair fern *'''Succulents''': Burro's tail, echeveria, sedum *'''Bromeliads''': Tillandsia, Neoregelia, Guzmania *'''Vines''': English ivy, jasmine, clematis *'''Herbs''': [[Basil]], [[mint]], [[thyme]], [[oregano]] == Maintenance == Vertical gardens require regular maintenance to ensure the health and longevity of the plants. Key maintenance tasks include: *'''Watering''': Ensure the plants receive the appropriate amount of water, either through manual watering or an automated irrigation system. *'''Fertilizing''': Provide plants with necessary nutrients using a balanced, water-soluble [[fertilizer]] or slow-release fertilizer. *'''Pruning''': Trim and shape plants regularly to maintain their size and encourage healthy growth. *'''Pest control''': Monitor plants for signs of pests or diseases and address issues promptly using appropriate integrated pest management techniques. *'''Replacing plants''': Remove and replace any dead, damaged, or diseased plants to maintain the overall health and appearance of the vertical garden. == Challenges == While vertical gardening offers many benefits, it also presents some challenges, including: *'''Installation costs''': The initial cost of installing a vertical garden can be high, especially for large-scale or complex systems. *'''Maintenance requirements''': Vertical gardens require regular maintenance, which can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. *'''Structural considerations''': The weight of the vertical garden, including the plants, growing media, and support structures, must be carefully considered to ensure the safety and stability of the installation. *'''Irrigation''': Proper irrigation is crucial for the success of a vertical garden, and any issues with the irrigation system can quickly lead to plant stress or death. Despite these challenges, the benefits of vertical gardening make it an increasingly popular choice for urban greening and sustainable design. == See also == [[Urban agriculture]], <br /> [[Green roof]]<br /> [[Sustainable architecture]]<br /> [[Biophilic design]]<br /> [[Hydroponics]]<br /> == Further Reading == Blanc, Patrick. ''The Vertical Garden: From Nature to the City''. W. W. Norton & Company, 2012.<br /> Jost, Annette. ''Vertical Gardening: Grow Up, Not Out, for More Vegetables and Flowers in Much Less Space''. Rodale Books, 2011.<br /> Verkroost, Martyn. ''Vertical Gardening: The Beginner's Guide To Organic & Sustainable Produce Production Without A Backyard''. Independently published, 2019.
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