The Benefits of Creating a Self Watering Vertical Garden

Table of Contents

Introduction

Vertical gardens have been in trend for some time now, and their popularity only seems to be increasing with new inventions. Among the latest innovations in gardening is the self-watering vertical garden. In this post, we will discuss everything related to self-watering vertical gardens, ranging from what it is, how it works, benefits, sustainability, indoor gardening ideas, and a conclusion outlining why you should consider creating one soon.

What is a Self Watering Vertical Garden?

As the name implies, a self-watering vertical garden is a garden system that can water itself without requiring human intervention. This type of garden is typically created using stacked containers attached to a wall or mounted on a frame. The idea behind the self-watering feature is to maintain moisture levels continuously, keeping plants hydrated and healthy without the need for daily supervision.

How it works?

The self-watering system consists of several interconnected parts, including a reservoir, a wick, a soil compartment, and perforated piping. At the bottom of the container is the water reservoir, which releases water through capillary action via the wick, where it is distributed into the soil. The existence of the soil chamber helps to retain excess moisture, increasing root penetration and plant growth. The porous pipes work like straws by transporting water from the wicks to the soil at different levels vertically.

Benefits of a self-watering system?

1. Reduced water wastage - Unlike traditional irrigation systems that lose a lot of water through runoff, evaporation or deep watering, a self-watering system releases just enough moisture required by the plant roots.

2. Time-saving - With the self-watering system, you don't have to worry about watering frequencies, as the garden waters itself.

3. Perfect solution for those with busy schedules - The self-watering system helps to keep your plants healthy and alive during periods when you want to travel.

4. Increased yields - Plants grow better and produce higher yields as the self-watering system provides consistent moisture levels.

Vertical Vegetable Gardens: A Sustainable Gardening Solution

A vertical garden is a perfect solution for those who want to start gardening with limited space, but what about vegetable gardening? Fortunately, it's possible to grow vegetables in small spaces using the vertical gardening technique, and the good news is that it's sustainable. Here are two subtopics that discuss vegetable gardening in-depth.

Can vegetables thrive in a vertical garden?

Yes, they can! Although specific plants require more soil and sunlight, vegetables tend to do well when grown vertically, thanks to the constant supply of water provided by the self-watering system. Vegetables like herbs, peppers, beans and salad greens will flourish in a vertical garden.

Vertical gardening vs Container gardening

Container gardening involves planting plants in pots, which you can place at different locations; on patios, balconies, or indoors. But when compared to the vertical garden in terms of space utilization, the latter takes the lead. Vertical gardens use less horizontal space than container gardening, making them a better option for those with little outdoor space.

Indoor Self Watering Vertical Garden Ideas

Having a green space indoors does not only offer aesthetic value, but also has health benefits, including air purification and better sleep. With the following ideas, creating an indoor garden will no longer be challenging.

Best indoor plants for a self watering vertical garden

1. Spider Plants - The spider plant is low maintenance and grows fast. It is also adaptable to various lighting conditions ranging from bright to dorm rooms illumination.

2. Philodendron - Philodendrons are ideal indoor plants because they are shade-loving and do well with minimal direct light. Plus, their leafy foliage makes them a perfect choice for a vertical garden.

3. English Ivy- This plant is excellent for anyone looking to purify indoor air. English Ivy can filter pollutants from indoor air, including cigarette smoke, and it grows well under fluorescent light.

Steps to create your indoor self-watering tower garden

To help you get started with an indoor self-watering vertical garden, here are some steps you can follow:

1. Choose the appropriate containers: Small pots or hangers will work for small plants like herbs, while indoor space that is taller allows for larger plants. Ensure you choose containers that promote proper drainage and are easy to move.

2. Select a vertical garden design: Beads or other decorative features can add appeal to your designs, but ensure they do not block necessary sunlight. You can make use of existing wall art and living walls or install vertical planters.

3. Pick the right plants: Plants must be water-efficient, lightweight, and suitable for the area in which you want to place them. Avoid plants that require excessive maintenance or have large root systems.

4. Set-up irrigation system or watering schedule: Self-watering, micro-irrigation, or drip irrigation systems are efficient options for indoor gardens, and they can save time and reduce the likelihood of overwatering.

Green Living: The Environmental Benefits of Self Watering Vertical Gardens

Apart from being a beautiful addition, creating a self-watering vertical garden offers several environmental benefits that may surprise you.

How do self watering vertical gardens save water?

Unlike traditional gardening methods that require vast amounts of water, self-watering vertical gardens use less than half the amount of water needed by hydroponic systems. The water reservoir automatically releases a controlled amount of moisture into the soil, allowing the plants to uptake all available nutrients without wastage.

Are self watering vertical gardens eco friendly?

Yes! By encouraging urban farming, self-watering vertical gardens bring agriculture closer to city dwellers while reducing carbon emissions associated with industrial transportation of produce. Additionally, since this type of garden uses less water, it decreases the demand for municipal sources, conserving water resources.

FAQ

What plants can grow in a self-watering vertical garden?

A variety of plants can grow in self-watering vertical gardens, including herbs, vegetables, salad greens, and flowers. Depending on the size of your container, you can plant anything from small succulents to larger plants like tomatoes.

Do herbs grow well in a self-watering vertical garden?

Yes, herbs thrive well in self-watering vertical gardens as they require low quantities of water and most are lightweight. Examples of herbs that will do great in this type of setup include basil, parsley, rosemary, thyme, and mint.

Can I build my own self-watering vertical garden?

Yes, you can! There are various DIY tutorials online with step-by-step instructions on how to create self-watering vertical gardens using common household items like plastic bottles or PVC pipes.

How often do I need to add water to my self watering vertical garden?

The frequency of adding water to your self-watering vertical garden depends on variables like temperature, humidity level, and plant type. Typically, once every one or two weeks is adequate.

Can a self-watering vertical garden be used indoors?

Yes, they can! In fact, indoor vertical gardens are becoming increasingly popular because of their aesthetic value, space-saving capabilities, and health benefits.

How does a self-watering system in a vertical garden work?

A self-watering system contains a reservoir, wick, soil compartment, and perforated piping. The wick captures water from the reservoir, directing it to the roots of the plant via the soil compartment through the porous pipe.

Can vertical gardens be rotated to receive equal sunlight?

Yes, it is possible to rotate your vertical garden to achieve even sunlight distribution. Rotating a few times a day ensure each section receives an amount of light, which helps the plants grow evenly.

Is it possible to make an entire wall into a vertical garden?

It is possible to make a wall into a vertical garden; the only limitation is your creativity. You can use hanging pots, grow bags, or install hydroponic systems with illuminated backgrounds.

What are the maintenance requirements for a self watering vertical garden?

The maintenance required for a self-watering vertical garden is relatively low. Keep track of the water levels and add nutrients occasionally. Insects and pests can be discouraged by keeping the space clean.

Does a self-watering system eliminate the need to fertilize plants?

No, self-watering systems may supply water to plants but not nutrients, so they still need fertilizers. Adding organic matter like compost improves plant nutrition and soil condition.

Conclusion

In self-watering vertical gardens derive numerous benefits for people who would love to start a hobby in gardening, but lack outdoor space. Self-watering vertical gardens are perfect for busy people, sustainable for urban farmings, purifying indoor air, and saving water resources. With the information presented here, you now know how to create an indoor garden and harness its benefits while conserving the environment. Start small, watch your garden grow, and let's embrace sustainability through our creations.