Are you interested in learning about the best groundcovers for vertical gardens but unsure where to start? Don’t worry! In this article, we will guide you through an Introduction to Vertical Gardens and Groundcovers. From defining what a vertical garden is to exploring different types of groundcovers and their benefits, we’ve got you covered. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of what makes a good groundcover for a vertical garden and be ready to take on your own project.
What is a Vertical Garden?
A vertical garden is a structure that allows you to grow plants vertically instead of horizontally. It’s an excellent way to add greenery to small spaces, create privacy walls, or hide unsightly features. The most common types of vertical gardens are living walls and trellises. Living walls can be made from a range of materials, including pallets, mesh, and felt, and they can be as simple or complex as you like. They can also be either soil-based or hydroponic. Trellises are typically made from wood and used to support climbing plants, such as vines or espalier fruit trees.
Types of Groundcovers for Vertical Gardens
Groundcovers are low-growing plants that cover the soil and provide a range of benefits, such as reducing erosion, suppressing weeds, and retaining moisture. When it comes to vertical gardens, groundcovers can be used to cover the base of the structure and provide an attractive backdrop for the plants above. There are several types of groundcovers that are suitable for vertical gardens, including:
- Succulents: Succulents are a popular choice for vertical gardens because they are low-maintenance and can tolerate drought and heat. They come in a range of colors and textures, making them a versatile option. Some popular species include sedum, echeveria, and crassula.
- Ferns: Ferns are a great option if you want to add some texture to your vertical garden. They prefer shade and humidity, so they are ideal for living walls in cooler climates or indoors. Some popular species include maidenhair fern, bird’s nest fern, and staghorn fern.
- Creeping Jenny: Creeping Jenny is a fast-growing groundcover that produces small, round leaves and bright yellow flowers. It’s a great option if you want to add a pop of color to your vertical garden and it can also tolerate partial shade.
- Trailing herbs: Trailing herbs, such as creeping thyme, oregano, and mint, are a great option if you want to add some fragrance to your vertical garden. They also have culinary uses and can be harvested for cooking.
- Groundcover Roses: Groundcover roses have a low-growing habit and produce small, colorful flowers. They are a great option if you want to add some classic garden charm to your vertical garden.
Criteria for Selecting Groundcovers for Vertical Gardens
Vertical gardens offer a unique way to create a beautiful green wall that helps to purify the air, reduce noise, and increase oxygen levels. One of the critical components of any vertical garden is the groundcover. The right groundcover can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the garden while also playing a role in maintaining the health of the plants. When selecting groundcovers for a vertical garden, here are a few criteria to consider:
- Light Requirements: Choose a groundcover that matches the amount of light your vertical garden receives. Some groundcovers need direct sunlight, while others thrive in shaded areas.
- Water Needs: Ensure that the groundcover you choose has similar watering needs to the other plants in your vertical garden. Over or under-watering can damage the plants and may even kill them.
- Maintenance: Select a groundcover that is easy to maintain and doesn't require frequent pruning or fertilization. Consider your skills and resources before choosing a groundcover.
- Growth Rate: Choose a groundcover whose growth rate matches your vertical garden's needs. Some groundcovers grow quickly, making them an ideal choice if you want to create a lush green wall quickly. Others take more time, and that may be perfect for those who want a low-maintenance garden.
- Root System: Ensure that the groundcover you choose has a shallow root system that won't damage your vertical garden's structure or other plants. Also, shallow root systems are easier to maintain and do not require deep watering.
- Climate: Consider the climate of your area and ensure that the groundcover you choose can thrive in that environment. Different plants perform differently depending on the region.
By considering these criteria, you can select the perfect groundcover for your vertical garden. When choosing your groundcover, focus on the plants' qualities and your needs, and your vertical garden shall thrive all year round.
Top 3 Groundcovers for Shaded Vertical Gardens
Incorporating groundcovers into your shaded vertical garden is a great way to add texture and variety, while also reducing maintenance and promoting healthy soil. Here are our top 3 picks for groundcovers that thrive in shady conditions:
- English Ivy (Hedera helix) - English Ivy is a classic groundcover that has a reputation for being invasive, but can be a great addition to a shaded vertical garden if contained properly. Its trailing vines and glossy leaves provide a lush, green backdrop for other plants. It can tolerate a wide range of soil and moisture conditions, making it a versatile choice for vertical gardens. Just be sure to keep it trimmed and contained to prevent it from taking over.
- Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia) - Creeping Jenny is a low-growing groundcover with bright green, rounded leaves that form a dense mat. It thrives in moist, shady conditions and will even tolerate some sun. Its trailing habit makes it perfect for vertical gardens, where it can spill over the edges of containers or grow down a trellis. It can sometimes be aggressive, so keep an eye on it and trim as needed.
- Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum) - Sweet Woodruff is a unique groundcover with delicate, star-shaped leaves and tiny white flowers that bloom in the spring. It prefers moist, shady conditions and can tolerate some sun. It's a great choice for vertical gardens because it grows in clumps, which can be tucked in between other plants or allowed to spill over the edges of containers. It's also low-maintenance and easy to care for, making it a great choice for beginner gardeners.
When selecting groundcovers for your shaded vertical garden, be sure to consider the specific growing conditions and needs of your plants. With the right groundcover, you can create a beautiful, low-maintenance garden that thrives in even the shadiest of spaces.
Top 3 Groundcovers for Sunny Vertical Gardens
Vertical gardens are a great way to add greenery to limited spaces, and groundcovers are an excellent choice for covering the vertical area quickly. However, not all groundcovers are suitable for sunny conditions. Here are the top 3 groundcovers for sunny vertical gardens:
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Creeping phlox (Phlox subulata)
This groundcover is a popular choice for sunny vertical gardens. It features tiny, star-shaped flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white that bloom in spring or early summer. Creeping phlox grows up to 6 inches tall and spreads up to 3 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for covering large vertical areas quickly. It also has evergreen foliage that stays green year-round, adding to the beauty of the display.
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Creeping jenny (Lysimachia nummularia)
Another excellent groundcover for sunny vertical gardens is creeping jenny. This plant has bright green, round leaves that grow on trailing stems and has a prostrate growth habit. It grows up to 2 inches tall and trails up to 2 feet wide. In spring, it produces bright yellow cup-shaped flowers that give a beautiful contrast against the green foliage. Creeping jenny prefers moist soil but can tolerate drought once established.
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Sunrose (Helianthemum nummularium)
Sunrose is an excellent groundcover for sunny vertical gardens because of its brilliant and colorful flowers that bloom in late spring. It has low mat-forming growth, and the flowers come in shades of pink, red, yellow, and white. This groundcover prefer well-draining soil that is not too moist, and it can tolerate light shade too. Sunrose is also a great choice for rock gardens, borders, and as a plant under taller plants and trees.
In conclusion, selecting the right groundcover for sunny vertical gardens is essential to achieve great results. Consider factors such as growth habit, color, and blooming times before choosing the right plant for your sunny vertical garden.
Maintenance Tips for Groundcovers in Vertical Gardens
Maintenance is an essential part of vertical gardening. This becomes more critical for groundcovers, which help keep the soil moist and contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the garden. Here are some maintenance tips for groundcovers in vertical gardens.
- Prune regularly: Regular trimming or pruning promotes bushier growth and is vital to controlling the spread of groundcovers. Pruning can also remove dead or diseased foliage, ensuring that the plant's energy goes exclusively into healthy greenery. Use sterile pruning shears to avoid introducing harmful bacteria into the garden, and cut back the groundcover every few weeks or as the growth requires.
- Watering: Groundcovers in vertical gardens need water regularly. These plants should be watered every 2-3 days in the morning or evening. Create a schedule for watering your vertical garden and stick to it. Check the soil moisture weekly to ensure it's not too dry or too wet. Water the groundcover until you see it running out of the bottom of the container, ensuring that the roots get adequately soaked.
- Fertilize : To keep your groundcovers healthy and thriving, fertilize them regularly. Apply a slow-release fertilizer every two months, or use a water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks, depending on your preference. Fertilize early in the morning or late in the evening when there's less heat and sun, as this will reduce the chances of burning the foliage.
- Check for pests : Pests are a common issue in vertical gardens. Check the plants regularly for signs of insects such as spider mites, aphids, or scale insects. Look for spots on the leaves, discolored foliage, and wilting. Use organic pesticides or insecticides to treat the plants in case of pests' infestation.
- Sun Exposure : Groundcovers have different light requirements, and it's essential to choose species that can tolerate the available light in your garden. Some groundcovers thrive in full sun, while others prefer shaded areas. Monitor the plant's growth and health to ensure that they're getting the right amount of sun and shade. When possible, move the containers around to adjust the exposure to sunlight.
- Clean the Garden: Regular cleaning of the garden is essential to keep it healthy and prevent the growth of unwanted weeds. Remove any dead leaves or spent flowers, and pull out any weeds immediately. Cleaning the garden also helps reduce the chances of pests and diseases.
By following these simple maintenance tips, your groundcovers in vertical gardens will stay healthy and vigorous. These plants enhance the beauty of your garden and provide a beautiful display of colors that will soothe your eyes and create a calming atmosphere in your outdoor space. Happy gardening!
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Groundcovers for Your Vertical Garden
Vertical gardens are a great way to incorporate greenery into small spaces, but selecting the right groundcovers can significantly impact the success of your project. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which groundcovers will work best for your vertical garden. However, by considering the location, lighting, and watering needs, you can make an informed decision and achieve your desired outcome.
When deciding on groundcovers, it is crucial to evaluate your vertical garden's location. Determine whether it will be indoors or outdoors and consider the prevailing weather conditions such as temperature and humidity. This will help you select plants that will thrive in the environment that you have in mind.
Another critical factor to consider when choosing groundcovers for your vertical garden is lighting. Different plants require varying levels of light, ranging from full sun to complete shade. It is essential to understand the amount of light that reaches your vertical garden regularly and choose groundcovers that can withstand it for optimal success.
The amount of water that groundcovers require is another important consideration. Some plants require more water than others, and choosing a plant that does not thrive in your watering schedule can lead to poor growth or even plant death. Ensure that the plant you select has the same watering needs as the rest of your vertical garden.
In conclusion, selecting the best groundcovers for your vertical garden can be a fun and rewarding process. Remember to evaluate your location, lighting, and watering needs to find plants that thrive in your chosen environment. With a little bit of research and a lot of love for your plants, you can create a beautiful and thriving vertical garden that provides both a natural aesthetic and environmental benefits to your living space.
