Vertical gardens, also known as ‘green walls,’ are a great way to add colour and life to cramped urban environments, and free up walking space. They also offer plentiful shade and heat reduction in summer, and serve as an effective sound barrier to block outside noise.

When placed in the proper growing conditions, many plants suited for vertical growing require little to no maintenance. Plus, if you’ve ever wanted to start your own veggie patch – but felt you never quite had the space – there are many ways to vertically grow food too.

Whatever your gardening goals are, here is a breakdown of the easiest and most suitable plants to grow, which’ll ensure your vertical garden is a resounding success.

Japanese Iris

Characterised by gently ruffled petals, and a distinctive purple tone that transforms into a white centre, the Japanese Iris is a gorgeous centrepiece for any vertical garden. Aside from being pleasing on the eyes, the Iris is also easy to grow in full or partial shade, and virtually free of insect and disease problems.

Furthermore, all you need is ordinary garden soil and a few months of warm weather, and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful blossom.

Dianella (Flax Lillies)

The Dianella, a strappy leaved plant found throughout the Asia Pacific Region, is notable for its cluster of overflowing leaves, ability to grow flowers in a range of colours (from pale blue through to deep purple), and distinctive cream stripes. The most common types of Dianella plants are Caerulea, Tasmanica, Revolute, and Prunina.

Whatever species you choose, Dianella plants are a great way to fill up space and establish contrast with surrounding plants. Plus, they require minimal water during warmer seasons.

Mondo Grass

Another useful ‘filler’ plant, Mondo Grass – despite its highly convincing look and texture – is not a ‘true’ grass. Instead, the plant is made up of strappy leaves that spread outward from the soil, which helps soften the appearance of the garden. It can also be planted as a border to give the vertical garden a formal appearance.

Better still, Mondo Grass performs brilliantly in almost any soil and lighting conditions, with very little maintenance required.

Ferns

Just like the Dianella Plant, ferns come in a wide range of shapes and colours. As a flowerless plant, ferns are characterised by their feathery or leafy fronds, which protrude outward in multiple directions and hang loosely from the stem.

Not all ferns are suitable for vertical growing. The ones that are include the Boston fern, Bird’s Nest fern, and the Rabbit Foot’s fern. Why these? Because, they’re equally resistant to humidity, and easy to grow in any partial or fully shaded environment. Plus, you can easily grow them in a container or hanging basket.

Fruit, Vegetables, and Herbs

Want to set up your own veggie patch but are low in space? Relax. Almost any fruit or vegetable that grows in a vine-fashion is suitable for growing vertically. You can also plant a variety of herbs like mint, basil, and parsley for extra flavour and garnish. Some fruit and veggies that grow particularly well are:

• Zucchinis

• Strawberries

• Cherry tomatoes

• Lettuce

• Cucumbers

• Beans

• Peas

• Small squash

• Miniature pumpkins and gourds

Obviously, make sure you pair together vegetables that complement each other. For example, cucumber and beans are good companion plants because they repel destructive pests like aphids and beetles. Overall, strategic pairing will enhance the quality of your produce, reduce maintenance, and prolong the life of your veggie patch.

Where to Buy Plants for Vertical Gardens

These days, it’s quick and easy to order plants online and have them delivered to your doorstep. Most reputable online nurseries have written descriptions for each of their products, which lay everything you need to make an informed purchase, such as growing conditions, average height and width, and maintenance tips.

Prefer to get up close and personal? Simply drop into your local nursery. Inside, you can browse through hundreds if not thousands of native plants to find the perfect match for you, and seek expert advice from friendly staff who’ll help you choose the best plants for your unique garden.