The trend towards clean eating and organic food sources continues to gain momentum, both when at home and dining out. It only makes sense that living walls are gaining in popularity as well. Architects, designers, restaurants and homeowners are all embracing this method of gardening, which allows for efficient use of vertical space, and provides the freshest possible herbs and vegetables – simply pick what you need when you need it!
The reasons for “edible walls” are many. The health benefits of having live green plants in your space is well documented, but the financial implications are great as well. Restauranteurs and home chefs alike will love having ready access to fresh ingredients, and the modular system of growing generally makes it remarkably simple to add or remove a specific plant without disrupting the entire garden. Plantscape professionals are now assisting in the construction of edible walls and roofs, as well as backyard farms.
Growers are seeing success with food items as diverse as herbs, lettuce, legumes, cucumbers, strawberries, dwarf tomatoes, and many varieties of peppers.
There are various structural systems available, but they work on the same basic premise. Being modular, they can be adapted to any available space, either going tall or wide. Modules are attached to a wall, and waterproof membranes and spacers are placed between the wall and the system. On larger installations (usually commercial) an irrigation system can be utilized, while residential growers may prefer manual watering. Both methods will have to consider how to capture and drain any excess runoff. The systems used by Beneva Plantscapes have built in gutters that act as reservoirs, conserving runoff. (read more)
These systems also work well as decor, even if you have no intention of eating the result. Simply use the modular system to house any plant you wish, creating a living wall that is both aesthetically beautiful and good for the surrounding air quality. If you would like to learn more about living walls or edible walls, call the experts at Beneva Plantscapes in Sarasota.
Architecture has never been more appetizing!
