10 Best Drought Tolerant Plants For Vertical Gardens

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Vertical gardens, also known as green walls, have become increasingly popular in recent years due to limited space for traditional horizontal gardens. Although vertical gardening may seem challenging at first, it is an excellent opportunity to get creative and explore various plant options. In this article, we will highlight ten drought-resistant plants perfect for vertical gardens, along with other tips for maintaining a thriving green wall.

What are Vertical Gardens?

Vertical Gardens are a trend where plants can grow on a wall, fence, or other vertical surfaces. The idea behind them is to minimize the amount of space required for gardening while still providing an aesthetically pleasing display.

The Need for Drought-Tolerant Plants in Vertical Gardens

Drought-tolerant plants are essential for vertical gardens since they require minimal water to maintain their lush appearance. Plants that can withstand long periods of drought make for an ideal choice for any vertical garden, making maintenance easier for busy people who don't have much time to tend to their plants.

How to Choose the Right Drought Tolerant Plants for a Vertical Garden

Selecting plants for your vertical garden requires some research to ensure they thrive in the right conditions. Factors such as light, soil type, and temperature must be taken into account when choosing suitable plants.

At the same time, it is also essential to select plants that offer visual interest throughout the year. Now let's take a closer look at the top 10 drought-tolerant plants for vertical gardens.

Top 10 Drought-Tolerant Plants for Vertical Gardens

1. Succulents

Succulents are the best drought-tolerant plants for vertical gardens due to their low water requirements. With more than 25,000 species and many colors, shapes, and textures available, succulents are incredibly versatile and can create an aesthetically appealing display. As it is vital to keep the succulent's leaves dry, make sure not to water them too often.

2. Lavender

Known for its distinctive aroma, Lavender thrives in hot, sunny conditions and can handle long periods of drought. It adapts well to various soils but needs consistent drainage to avoid overwatering. It also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a beneficial addition to any vertical garden.

3. Hens and Chicks

Hens and chicks are a type of succulent known for their rosette-like foliage that has smaller offsets surrounding the mother plant. They prefer well-draining soil and are tolerant of droughts and high temperatures, making them perfect for a vertical garden.

4. Yarrow

Yarrow is a herbaceous perennial with ferny foliage and flat-topped clusters of tiny flowers in shades of white, pink, and yellow. They thrive in poor, dry soil and require minimal water, making them a suitable candidate for vertical gardens.

5. Ice Plant

Ice plants are another succulent with a creeping or trailing habit, making them ideal for vertical gardens. The plant's green leaves change color from blue-green to purple during the year. Plus, they produce vibrant blooms in shades of red, orange, pink, and yellow during late spring to summer.

6. Sedum

Sedums are low-growing plants that come in many different varieties, offering a variety of textures, colors, and sizes. They require well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions, making them suitable for vertical gardens.

7. Verbena

Verbena is a versatile plant that blooms in long-lasting clusters of flowers in bright pink, red, purple, or white. It prefers full sunlight but can tolerate some shade, and it is not picky about the soil type. Verbena's drought tolerance makes it ideal for planting in vertical gardens.

8. Black-Eyed Susan Vine

Black-eyed Susan vine is a fast-climbing plant with bright green leaves and trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in yellow, orange, or white. It needs ample space to grow and thrives in most soil types. It is also drought-resistant, which makes it perfect for vertical gardens.

9. Russian Sage

Russian sage is an attractive perennial known for its silver-gray foliage and delicate lavender-blue flowers. It requires well-draining soil and full sun but can handle dry spells like a pro. Its tall and graceful form makes it perfect for vertical gardens.

10. Bougainvillea

Bougainvillea is a tropical, thorny shrub or vine known for its vibrant, papery bracts in shades of pink, red, violet, purple, orange, and white. It requires plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil, but once established, it is incredibly drought-resistant.

Drought Resistant Vines for Vertical Gardens

Aside from the top 10 plants mentioned above, vining plants are an excellent addition to any vertical garden. Here are some of the drought-resistant vine plant candidates:

• Clematis
• Passionflowers
• Ivy

Vertical Garden Maintenance Tips

Maintenance on vertical gardens is quite different from traditional horizontal gardens, so here are some maintenance tips that you should consider:

Water Conserving Irrigation Systems

The best irrigation system for vertical gardens is the drip irrigation system because it uses up to 70% less water and ensures even distribution of water across all plants. The use of a rain sensor or automated systems that adjust watering times based on weather conditions can also be helpful.

Fertilization Guidelines

Incorporate slow-release fertilizers into the soil when planting, as this will provide necessary plant nutrients gradually over time. Another option is to apply liquid fertilizers regularly, following the instructions provided by the manufacturer for best results.

Weeding and Pruning Techniques

Regular pruning of your plants keeps them healthy and helps reduce their water consumption. Prune dead branches and leaves immediately and remove weeds before they grow too large, competing with your plants for nutrients.

Water Conserving Plants for Vertical Gardens

Aside from the top 10 drought-tolerant plants, there are other beautiful options suitable for vertical gardens that can help conserve water:

• Pampas Grass
• Sagebrush
• California Flannelbush

Creating and maintaining a beautiful and sustainable vertical garden is possible with the right selection of drought-tolerant plants. The ten plants highlighted in this article are just some of the many choices available to transform any wall or fence into a thriving green space. With a commitment to water conservation, vertical gardens can help reduce carbon footprints while adding natural beauty to any urban environment.

FAQ

• What is a vertical garden?

A vertical garden is a method of gardening where plants are grown on a wall or other vertical surface, utilizing minimal space and creating an aesthetically pleasing display.

• Why use drought-tolerant plants in a vertical garden?

Drought-tolerant plants require less water, making them ideal for vertical gardens that may be hard to reach. They also reduce the need for constant watering and help save water, making them cost-efficient and beneficial for the environment.

• What are some benefits of a vertical garden?

Vertical gardens offer a unique look and can enhance air quality, protect walls from weathering, and provide insulation in both summer and winter seasons.

• What kind of soil is best for a vertical garden?

Well-draining soil mixed with mulch is the best for vertical gardens to ensure proper drainage and provide essential nutrients for plants to thrive.

• How often should I water my vertical garden?

It depends on variables such as plant species, temperature, humidity, and sun exposure. Still, you should check the soil's moisture levels regularly and only water when it feels dry to the touch.

• Can any plants grow in a vertical garden?

Most plants have adaptations to grow vertically but selecting drought-tolerant plants with shallow roots is best for vertical gardens.

• How do I maintain a vertical garden?

Maintenance includes regular pruning, weeding, pest control, and monitoring the irrigation system. Location matters too: minimizing direct sunlight exposure and providing adequate watering are key.

• What other tools do I need to set up a vertical garden?

You'll need a vertical garden structure, a soil mix suitable for planting, suitable planters or pockets, an irrigation system, and fertilizers.

• Which type of plants should I avoid in my vertical garden?

Vegetables and fruit trees may not work well in vertical gardens due to their extensive root systems and growth habit. Instead, focus on plant species specifically suited for vertical growth.

• Do I need special irrigation systems for a vertical garden?

Drip irrigation, misting, or spray irrigation systems cater to the specific requirements of vertical gardens to reduce water usage and temperature stress while delivering only the needed moisture.