Transforming the available space in your home to grow plants can be an innovative and efficient way to make use of underutilized areas. A vertical garden is an excellent solution for those who want to have fresh herbs at their disposal without needing a large space. Whether in the kitchen, balcony or backyard, any place can be transformed into a green space with a little creativity and planning.
The Vertical Garden Technique
The concept of a vertical garden not only makes it easier to access fresh herbs, but also allows you to use disposable materials to build a plant repository. Imagine having your own supply of herbs growing in your home or apartment, without the need for large growing areas. This approach is not only practical, but also sustainable and cost-effective.
To create a healthy and cheerful vertical garden, you will need the following materials:
- A piece of wood, preferably recycled, such as an old window with shutters, which adds a charming and sustainable touch.
- Plastic bottles, which will be reused as vases.
- Fresh herbs of your choice.
- Geotextile blanket to ensure adequate drainage (available at gardening stores).
- Land suitable for growing plants.
- Small screws, hooks and nails.
- Tools such as hammer, utility knife and screwdrivers.
Vertical Garden Assembly
To begin, cut the piece of wood to the desired size, taking into account the number of bottles you want to use. The distance between the bottle pots should be appropriate for the size of the bottles and the plants you intend to grow, allowing easy access for harvesting.
Next, attach hooks to the wood, just as you would to hang pictures. Using a utility knife, cut off the tops of the PET bottles and attach them to the wood using screws. To prevent soil from escaping, place a piece of bio-mat on the neck of the bottle. Add pebbles or broken ceramic to improve drainage and, finally, fill with suitable soil and plant the herbs.
Once you’ve assembled your vertical garden, choose a sunny spot to hang it. Ideally, it should be near the kitchen, so that you have easy access to fresh herbs. For smaller spaces, it’s a good idea to choose plants that require less care, such as basil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, parsley, and chives, which grow well in compact beds.
Benefits of Vertical Garden
A vertical garden offers several benefits, both for the grower and for the environment. Firstly, it maximizes the use of small spaces, allowing plants to be grown in areas where space is limited. In addition, the practice of vertical gardening contributes to sustainability by reusing materials that would otherwise be discarded. This type of garden also promotes health and well-being, by providing a greener, more natural environment, which can reduce stress and improve air quality.
Additional Tips for the Vertical Garden
When setting up your vertical garden, there are a few additional things to consider to ensure its success. Make sure the plastic bottles are securely attached and that there is good drainage to prevent excessive water build-up, which can harm your plants. Monitor the amount of sunlight you get and adjust the position of your garden as needed to ensure that your herbs are getting the right amount of light.
Additionally, maintain a care schedule for your plants, including watering and fertilizing, to ensure they grow healthy and productive.
Expansion of the Idea
The concept of a vertical garden can be expanded to include not only herbs, but also flowers and other ornamental plants. Experiment with different combinations and arrangements to create a vertical garden that suits your needs and aesthetic preferences.
You can also explore other vertical growing techniques, such as using recycled pallets or metal structures, to add an even more personalized touch to your green space.
Vertical gardens are a practical and creative solution for those who want to grow plants and herbs in small spaces. Using recyclable materials to create this garden not only promotes sustainability, but also allows you to make the most of the available space in your home. With the tips and techniques provided, you can transform any area into a beautiful and functional vertical garden, contributing to a greener and more sustainable lifestyle.
Check out other interesting facts about recycling clicking here.
Learn how to make art by recycling, Click here.
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