How to Plant a Living Wall

Think the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence? Think again. For those times when the view is less than picture perfect, a living wall could be the ideal solution. Living walls are densely planted vegetative screens that block unsightly views or direct traffic away from problem areas in the landscape. Unlike the traditional hedge, living walls combine a variety of plants in layers to create a garden structure that is as beautiful as it is useful. If planted properly, a living wall can be a focal point for the landscape while masking an unsightly view beyond.

Things You'll Need

1 or 2 varieties of evergreen shrubs and trees
Deciduous tree or shrub
Ground cover (optional)
Shovel
garden hose

flour or inverted marking paint
Properly amended soil
Garden gloves
Mulch

Instructions

- 1
  Use a garden hose to lay out a planting bed in front of the area you want to screen. Mark bed lines with flour or inverted marking paint (available from home improvement stores). Remove existing vegetation. Test and amend soil to ensure long-term growth. Make a planting plan and shopping list by keeping the following tips in mind:
- 2
  Living walls should provide height as well as depth. For this reason, layer plants by installing short varieties at the front of the planting bed and tall plants, including trees, at the back.
- 3
  Cluster like plants in odd numbers.
- 4
  Create softness by staggering plants rather than lining them up like a row of soldiers.
- 5
  Repeat clusters from one area of the wall to another.
- 6
  Keep it simple and resist the urge to splurge. Limit your planting plan to two or three varieties. For example, select one or two varieties of tall plants, one variety of shrub and one ground cover.

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