Creating a DIY Lightweight Succulent Living Wall
A succulent wall garden is a piece of living art that enhances the aesthetics of gardens and homes. Succulent walls, also known as vertical gardens or green walls, start with a straightforward construction methodology. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to create DIY lightweight succulent walls to transform any space into a beautiful green sanctuary.
Choosing the Right Succulents
The selection of succulents contributes to the overall success and longevity of a succulent wall. Choose from varieties like Echeveria “Grey Red”, Sedum “Little Missy”, and Graptosedum “Bronz” that thrive in wall gardens and offer a range of textures and hues for visual interest. Ensure that these plants can adapt to local climates and growing conditions.
Preparing The Materials
The list of base materials includes a picture frame or any wooden frame, a plywood sheet cut to the size of the frame, a sheet of plastic as a moisture barrier, succulent wall planter soil mix, chicken wire, screws, and a staple gun. More advanced but optional tools involved are drills, angle grinders, and welding machines. Succulent plants and cuttings are, of course, a critical part.
Building the Frame
Using a basic frame as the succulent wall’s backbone provides robust support. A common choice is a shadow box frame because of its depth—perfect for accommodating succulents. Using plywood, make a backing panel to affix to the frame. If necessary, cut the wood to match the frame’s dimensions.
Applying the Plastic Barrier
The plastic barrier prevents water from seeping into the wood, potentially causing warping or rot. Staple the plastic sheet confidently onto the plywood panel, ensuring no corner is left uncovered. Trim excess plastic, but do this gently to avoid accidental tearing.
Installing the Chicken Wire
Succulents take root and stay in place thanks to the chicken wire. Mount the wire onto the front of the shadow box frame, keeping it taut while securing it with a staple gun. Excess wire can be cut off, while any sharp edges can be bent back into the frame to prevent accidental injury during the planting procedure.
Filling with Soil
The soil mix must consist of three elements: perlite, coconut coir, and compost. This blend provides excellent drainage, which is essential for succulents. After mixing, fill the frame with the soil mix, ensuring it’s tightly packed. For frames with a depth of at least 2 inches, plant the succulents directly. Otherwise, plant cuttings instead.
Planting the Succulents
Cut the chicken wire large enough to allow the succulent’s roots to fit through. Poke a hole inside the soil using a dibber or any pointed stick. Insert the succulent, ensuring its roots are deep enough into the soil. Fill in the gaps with leftover soil.
Establishing the Succulent Wall
Allow the succulent wall to lie flat for about 4-6 weeks. This period gives the plants time to establish roots and become secure in their new soil home. Then, the wall can be mounted vertically. During this time, remember to water sparingly since overwatering can lead to root rot.
Maintaining the Living Wall
Succulent walls require less maintenance compared to traditional garden layouts. Water the succulents once a week during summer and every two weeks during winter. Fertilizer application can be done during spring and summer. Annual inspection of the succulent wall is recommended for potential pest infestations and diseases. Replanting or replacing occasional die-out plants helps maintain the lush green appearance.
The joy of creating a DIY lightweight succulent wall is more than just a design project. It’s also about bringing nature closer to home, improving air quality, and creating a more visually pleasing environment. Experience a new nuance of gardening and home décor with a lightweight succulent wall that is both functional and stunningly beautiful. The entire process may seem daunting at first, but with patience and creativity, a living work of art is entirely achievable.
