The Best Plants for Living Wall Planters: A Comprehensive Guide
When considering living wall planters for your home or garden, one of the most important factors to consider is the light. The amount of sunlight a living wall will receive varies significantly between indoor and outdoor settings. This article will provide you with detailed guidance on selecting the best plants for your living wall planter, whether it's for indoor or outdoor use.
The Role of Light in Selection
The light available in your space is the primary factor in choosing the right plants for your living wall planter. In outdoor settings, living wall planters can receive up to three to four times more light than those in indoor settings, even in shaded areas. Therefore, the selection of plants should be based on the lighting conditions in your chosen location.
Indoor Living Wall Planters
For indoor living wall planters, the focus should be on houseplants, which thrive in low to moderate light conditions. The choice of plants should depend on your aesthetic preferences and the appearance you want to achieve. Some popular options include:
Foliage Plants: Opt for large or small leaves, variegated or not, and rounded leaves with color accents. These plants are ideal for creating a lush, green look. Succulents: While many succulents require a lot of light indoors, they only grow slowly and often stay fairly small. They can be a great choice if you want a minimalistic and low-maintenance plant. Ferns: These plants are excellent for high-light conditions and prefer a humid environment. They are long-term survivors outdoors, but may require higher humidity levels indoors to thrive. Herbs: Herbs like basil, chives, oregano, and mint can be grown indoors, but they thrive in areas with more light. If you have some outdoor space, try growing them there instead.Outdoor Living Wall Planters
For outdoor living wall planters, the choice of plants will depend on the amount of sunlight they receive. Some plants prefer full sun, while others prefer partial shade or shade. Here are some popular options:
Flowers: Outdoor flowers like petunias, pansies, and marigolds are best left outdoors. They will quickly fade when brought indoors. Herbs: Some herbs like basil and chives can be grown outdoors, while others like mint prefer partial shade or full sun. However, they are not as sustainable indoors as they can be in outdoor settings. Shade Plants and Partial Shade Plants: These are perfect for areas receiving dappled sunlight or light shade. They include ferns, hostas, and various flowering plants that can thrive in partial shade.Caring for Your Living Wall
To ensure your plants live long and prosper, choose the right plants for your light conditions and care for them properly. If you are not concerned about maintaining the plants, feel free to purchase new ones when the old ones start to fail. Regular maintenance will keep your living wall looking its best for years to come.
Conclusion
When selecting plants for your living wall planter, consider the light conditions in your space and your desired aesthetic. Indoor and outdoor plants have different light requirements, so choose plants that match your environment. With the right selection and care, your living wall can become a beautiful addition to your home or garden.