Three ways to use outdoor space to create a vertical garden on a budget
GARDENING is not just for people with lots of outdoor space.
By planting upwards, you create a living wall that makes the most of a patio or balcony.
Here’s how to create a vertical garden on a budget. . .
PALLET PLANTS: One or two wooden pallets will work wonders in creating your dream garden and it’s quite easy to get your hands on them for free.
Just ask on Facebook or other local community groups and you can usually find a few that are no longer wanted. Just sand away any rougher bits.
To plant directly onto the pallet you’ll need a staple gun and garden supplies – from £7 at B&Q. Stretch the fabric around the back, bottom end and sides of the pallet and staple it in place, leaving the top end and front slats open for watering.
While the pallet rests on the ground with its back, fill it with potting soil via the slats, leaving enough space for plants.
For shady walls, try planting flowers such as viola and violets. For sunnier spots, try petunias. You can also add different types of grasses to create more greenery.
After planting, tip the pallet on its side. If you have small children or the pallet seems unstable, try attaching it to the wall with screws.
EATING WALL: Vertical gardens can also work well for growing vegetables and herbs. But it is best not to plant directly into the pallet because of chemicals that may have been used to treat the wood.
Instead, attach pots to the slats of the pallet if it’s on its side – and grow from there.
To attach pots, wrap metal wire around the pots and then around the wood.
Upcycle jars, plastic pots and other containers to make pots and save on buying new ones.
You can also give your pallet and pots a lick of colorful paint.
Basil, strawberries, thyme, coriander, lettuce leaves and peppers are among the food crops that can be grown in the pots.
- All prices on the page are correct at the time of going to press. Offers and offers subject to availability.
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