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The Complete Guide to Green Walls

The Complete Guide to Green Walls

Green walls (also called living walls or vertical gardens) are installations of plants on vertical surfaces. They appear indoors or outdoors, from office feature walls to full building facades.

Green walls bring several benefits. They improve air quality, reduce noise, and add visual interest. 

Inside, they can soften acoustics and lift staff mood. Research links greenery with lower stress and faster recovery.

On exteriors, they help cool buildings by shading and evaporative cooling – cutting wall temperatures by up to 14°C (25°F). 

This guide covers every type of green wall: indoor and outdoor, living and artificial. 

It includes design tips, light level advice, maintenance needs, costs, and common questions.

Interior Green Wall Systems

Interior green walls add vegetation to indoor spaces like lobbies, conference rooms, and offices. Below are the main categories of interior walls, each with its features, uses, pros, cons, and care notes.

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Living Walls

Living walls are truly “living” vertical gardens with irrigation. These come in various system types:

  • Modular Panels: Panels or frames that attach to the wall. Each panel contains plants in a substrate or media with built-in drip irrigation. These modules clip together or mount side-by-side.
  • Felt-Pocket Systems: Fabric “pockets” or pouches hung on a frame. Plants are inserted into pockets of synthetic felt, and irrigation wets the entire pocket panel.
  • Mobile Living walls:  Freestanding units on wheels, often double-sided. They include irrigation and work well as green room dividers in flexible or rented spaces.
  • Custom-Built Green Walls: Bespoke structures (e.g. troughs, framework of planters) built on-site. These may combine soil and hydroponic techniques to fit unique spaces or designs.

Regardless of type, living walls work by supplying plants with water and nutrients via an irrigation system. Green walls transform sterile interiors into biophilic spaces, boost air humidity slightly, and serve as living artwork.

Pros of Living Walls

  • Biophilic Impact: Actual plants and foliage. They can include a wide variety of species (ferns, pothos, philodendron, bromeliads, etc.) to create a rich texture and even seasonal interest.
  • Air Quality: Living walls consume CO₂ and some VOCs, improving indoor air.
  • Aesthetics: Greenery is dynamic, growing and changing over time (better visual effect than static art).
  • Customization: Choose plant mix for color, pollination, or function (e.g. air-purifying plants). Soil systems allow bulbs and flowering plants, hydroponic can support air-purifying or even edible plants.
  • Space-Saving: Adds greenery without using floor space – ideal where space is tight.
  • Visual Impact: Creates a striking impression. Often used in entrance atriums with signage to make a bold statement

Cons of Living Walls

  • Maintenance: Require ongoing care. Hydroponic and felt systems need constant monitoring (nutrient levels, pH, pump operation); soil walls are lower-maintenance by comparison.
  • Cost: Higher upfront and ongoing costs (installation and maintenance contracts).
  • Weight & Water: Heavy when saturated (up to ~75 kg/m² for dense modular systems) and potential for water leakage if not sealed.
  • Light Requirements: Plants need enough light; some systems in dim areas may fail without supplemental grow lights.
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Design & Maintenance

  • Irrigation: Living walls incorporate drip or capillary irrigation. Hydroponic systems need precisely balanced water and nutrients; soil-based walls retain moisture better, so watering can be less frequent. In all cases, a pump/reservoir or tap connection is required, and drainage must be planned.
  • Plant Selection: Shade-tolerant houseplants (pothos, ferns, mosses) suit low-light walls; brighter walls can support flowering species. Soil-based media allow bulbs and a greater plant range. Many designers use evergreen plants for year-round coverage, adding a few seasonal bloomers for interest.
  • Growth & Pruning: Plants will eventually outgrow modules. Regular pruning and trimming prevent overcrowding. Expect periodic plant replacements.
  • Structural Load: Verify wall load capacity. Many panel systems weigh 30–80 kg/m² when wet. An engineer should approve the mounts.
  • Access: Ensure installers have safe access (scaffolding or lifts) and that the finished wall can be serviced (platforms, catwalks, or permanent walkways).

Artificial Walls (Interior)

Artificial green walls use faux foliage to achieve a “green” look without living plants. They normally consist of artificial leaves and stems attached to rigid panels or mats.

  • How it works: Realistic fake plants (such as vinyl or silk plants) are mounted on panels that clip onto the wall or frame. They are designed to look like living walls but require no soil or irrigation.
  • Ideal uses: Indoor lobbies, offices or retail spaces where maintenance resources are limited, or where water damage is a concern. They are also used to add greenery to areas with no natural light or poor humidity control.

Pros:

Artificial walls require virtually no upkeep – no watering, no pruning, and no pest control. They stay green year-round and are allergy-friendly (no pollen or mold).

High-quality panels are durable and hold their appearance indefinitely. Installation is straightforward (lightweight panels mount easily) and they incur no irrigation or lighting costs.

Cons:

Artificial plants offer few of the benefits of live ones. While they can still support a sense of biophilia by mimicking natural forms, they don’t improve air quality or produce oxygen.

Over time, they can collect dust – though a quick dusting now and then keeps them looking fresh. Up close, even high-quality faux plants may appear less convincing than real foliage.   

Design & Maintenance:

Artificial panels come in many styles and textures, so design flexibility is high. Mounting requirements are minimal (normally requires a level surface and secure fixings).

Maintenance is limited to occasional dusting or gentle cleaning of the foliage.

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Preserved Moss Walls

Preserved moss walls use real moss that has been harvested and treated so it remains soft and green without growing. The moss can then be glued or attached to panels, frames or direct to the wall.

  • How it works: Natural forest moss (often reindeer or sheet moss) is treated with glycerin or other preservatives to lock in moisture and color. Panels of this preserved moss are then mounted on walls. No watering or light is needed, since the moss is “frozen” in its preserved state.
  • Ideal uses: Great for locations with no or low daylight (e.g. interior corridors) where live plants would struggle. Also used for acoustic decoration – preserved moss is highly sound-absorbent.

Pros: 

These walls are very low-maintenance. They never need water or sunlight, and they don’t dry out or turn brown under typical indoor conditions. 

A preserved moss wall can remain lush for years with just occasional gentle dusting. Moss panels also provide acoustic dampening (up to ~90% absorption of mid/high sound frequencies), so they reduce echo and noise. 

The natural texture of real moss is attractive and soothing.

Cons: 

Preserved moss is not alive – it doesn’t grow or change. While it mimics nature and offers some visual biophilic value, it brings none of the air quality benefits of living plants. It can’t recover from damage (people do like to touch it) and is best suited for dry indoor areas.

High humidity or outdoor exposure will cause it to break down. 

Moss walls also have a strong scent for a week or two after installation, but this fades completely and doesn’t linger.

Design & Maintenance: 

Preserved moss panels are sometimes framed and installed like artwork or else cover entire walls. 

They can be cut into shapes or integrated with logos for creative designs. No irrigation is needed, but keep humidity in a moderate range (extreme dryness or humidity can affect the moss texture).

JABmoss

Living Pictures

A “living picture” is essentially a framed or contained living wall – a shallow planter that hangs on a wall like a piece of art.

  • How it works: The system is a flat, rectangular container (often just a few inches deep) with a modular front and a plant-able growing medium inside it. Small plants are placed in the modular sections. The entire frame then hangs on the wall – hence the name “Living Picture”.
  • Ideal uses: Because they are relatively small and self-contained, living pictures are used like botanical artwork to green up small spaces without a full wall installation.

Pros: 

Living pictures create a striking visual centerpiece – a patch of real plants in a frame. They allow a mix of plants (for colour or texture) in a compact footprint. They require much less infrastructure than a large wall.

Cons: 

Because the planter is shallow, plant selection is limited. They still need some care: periodic watering (keeping the water reservoir topped up) and plant maintenance. 

These frames can be heavy when filled, so wall mounting must be secure.

Design & Maintenance: 

Treat a living picture like any hanging garden. Keep the water topped up.  Trim or replace plants that outgrow the frame or die. Hang the frame in bright, indirect light if possible.

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Movable Green Dividers

Movable green dividers (or green furniture) are portable or freestanding plant panels used as room partitions. They are like potted plant walls on wheels or with a stable base. Examples include living office screens with wheels or planters with tall plants (e.g. the Naava or LiveDivider type systems). 

How it works: These units integrate plants into a mobile structure. They may have shelves or pockets filled with plants on one or both sides. Some include features like magnetic whiteboards or even built-in lighting. Many are self-watering: a hidden water tank supplies the plants, and only occasional refill is needed.

Ideal uses: Open offices, coworking spaces, schools, and events. When flexible space partitioning is needed (for privacy, to define zones, or as movable décor), green dividers provide a living barrier. They are often used to subtly segment an area without hard walls.

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Pros: 

Mobility is the key benefit – you can reconfigure them or roll them to cleaning stations. They green both sides of the partition, maximizing impact. 

They are generally easier to install (no drilling into a wall, just position them where needed).

Cons: 

They can be heavy (especially when watered) and require a flat floor to roll smoothly. 

These dividers still need watering and sunlight (or built-in grow lights), and roots can outgrow the container over time. They often cost more due to their mechanical features.

Design & Maintenance: 

Choose sturdy, tipped-resistant bases. These units need an occasional refill of water/nutrients and some basic plant care (trimming, plant replacement). If integrated, irrigation technology may alert you when water is low.

Exterior Green Wall Systems

Exterior green walls and facades bring plant life to the outside of buildings. They must withstand weather and often provide building insulation and habitat.

Living Walls (Exterior)

Exterior living walls are similar in concept to interior ones but built for outdoors. They typically have robust construction, drainage, and choice of hardy plants.

  • How it works: These systems attach to building exteriors or freestanding structures. They often use modular panels with soil or hydroponic media, or large troughs/boxes. A complete irrigation system is mandatory (usually with drainage into the ground or a reservoir). Typical systems include a structural backing (drip tray or substrate box), waterproofing, and irrigation at the top feeding down.
  • Ideal uses: Building facades (new or retrofits), screening parking structures, covering blank walls, insulating glass buildings, or on fences. Also used on construction hoardings (temporary installation) or inside courtyards. Exterior walls can support taller vegetation and even vines under a trellis.

Pros: 

Exterior living walls can significantly affect microclimate.

By shading walls and through evapotranspiration, they cool surfaces – one study recorded wall surface drops of ~14°C compared to bare wall. This reduces AC demand. They capture rainwater and slow runoff, improving stormwater management.

Facade plants trap particulates and absorb CO₂, enhancing air quality. They provide habitat and connectivity for wildlife: native wildflowers and grasses on walls can feed bees and insects.

Aesthetic and branding benefits are high (e.g. covering unsightly elements with gardens).

Cons: 

These systems are expensive to install and maintain. The plantings face full sun, wind, and cold, so plant mortality can be high if not chosen well.

Structural concerns are critical: saturated green walls can weigh 50–100 kg/m² (e.g. ~75 kg/m²) plus wind loads.

Design & Maintenance:  

  • Location: Orientation matters. South or west-facing walls get the most sun, allowing flowering, sun-loving species; north-facing walls require shade-tolerant plants. Wind and exposure must be checked.

  • Irrigation: A fully engineered irrigation system is needed. This often includes a pump, filter, and controller in a “plant room” or outdoor cabinet. Overflow drains must be directed safely. In freezing climates, use frost-protected water lines and timers.

  • Support Structure: Engage a structural engineer to verify that the wall or frame can bear the load. Anchor points must be compatible with the facade material.

  • Plant Selection: Use hardy, low-maintenance perennials, shrubs and grasses suited to the local climate. Incorporate many evergreens for year-round cover; include flowering plants or habitat boxes to support pollinators. Native species are preferred for biodiversity.

  • Access: Plan scaffolding or maintenance access from the start. Facades may require rope access, catwalks, or lifts for pruning and repairs.

  • Regulations: Check local building codes (e.g. wind load, fire rating of panels) and standards (CWCT, BREEAM, etc.). Green facades can contribute to sustainability credits but may need planning approval.

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Artificial Green Walls (Exterior)

Exterior artificial walls use UV-stable faux plants for outdoor greenery. These panels mimic a living wall but are made of plastic or polyester foliage designed for sunlight and weather.

  • How it works: Artificial leaves are affixed to rigid panels or lattices, which mount on a wall or fence. Outdoor variants are treated to resist fading and can include materials like preserved preserved moss combined with synthetic greenery.
  • Ideal uses: Facades of buildings, fences, rooftop screens, or any outdoor wall where you want greenery but want to avoid irrigation or where real plants won’t thrive (e.g. very high walls or shady areas). They’re also popular for décor in outdoor restaurants or events, and for covering construction hoardings.

Pros: 

No watering, no seasonal die-off – the wall stays green and dense year-round. They require virtually no maintenance (just rinse off dust or pollen occasionally). There is no risk of structural damage from roots or moisture.

Artificial walls can be installed quickly and instantly transform an area.

Cons: 

Artificial walls offer none of the ecological services of living walls. They do not insulate, cool, or support wildlife; they may even contribute to microplastics if not high quality.

Sunlight will eventually fade the colours (though quality, UV rated products resist this). The look can appear plastic or repetitive up close, so selection of realistic panels is important.

Wildflower Walls (Exterior)

A wildflower wall is a green wall sown or planted with native wildflower and grass species, creating a vertical “meadow.”

  • How it works: These systems use panels or seed mats filled with a soil/gravel blend and seeded with wildflowers and native grasses. The installation captures rain or is irrigated until plants establish. As the plants grow, they bloom and attract pollinators. Systems like Vertical Meadow use a mix of native grasses and flowers to create a lush vertical habitat.
  • Ideal uses: Site hoardings, construction facades, sustainable building projects, or urban infill walls where biodiversity is a goal. They can be temporary (e.g. covering scaffolding for a season) or permanent features of eco-friendly developments.

Pros: 

Wildflower walls boost urban biodiversity. They become a year-round habitat for bees, butterflies and birds, effectively “stepping stones” between green spaces.

They offer seasonal colour and a dynamic look. During growth they improve public view (greening an otherwise bare wall or scaffold) and damp dust and noise a bit.

Cons: 

These walls are seasonal in appearance. Many wildflower species die back in winter, so the wall can look sparse or brown in off-season.

They require more maintenance than a simple vine wall – you may need irrigation for germination, weeding of invasive species, and periodic reseeding or patching. The structure must hold soil and may require deeper panels for root depth.

Design & Maintenance: 

Use locally appropriate seed mixes, often including perennials (clovers, knapweeds) and annuals (poppies, marigolds) to ensure blooms throughout the growing season. Provide irrigation at first (wildflower plants need water to establish).

In late autumn, the old stems can remain as nesting habitat or be trimmed to recycle nutrients. These walls usually start blooming in late spring and continue into summer.

Ivy Walls

Ivy screens (or vine screens) use climbing plants (often evergreen vines) trained on a trellis or frame to create a living wall or privacy screen.

  • How it works: Vines such as English ivy (Hedera), Boston ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata), Virginia creeper (P. quinquefolia), and others are grown up a trellis or directly over a wall. Alternatively, panels of ivy plugs (often with roots embedded in coir matting) can be attached to walls. The plants cling or wrap as they grow, covering the surface.
  • Ideal uses: Exterior fences, garden walls, unsightly structures, or for privacy/coverage in outdoor spaces. Ivy screens provide evergreen cover in mild climates, creating a natural green fence.

Pros: 

Once established, many vines are low-maintenance (just periodic trimming). They provide year-round leaf cover (English ivy stays green) or vibrant fall colour (Boston ivy).

Ivy can quickly cover large areas, and as it matures it insulates and shades the wall. Screens are often used for privacy or to hide blank walls.

Ivy also dampens noise somewhat and improves air quality slightly by trapping particulates.

Cons: 

Climbing vines can damage buildings if not managed carefully. Clinging roots (like those of English Ivy or Virginia Creeper) can penetrate mortar or wood, widening cracks and trapping moisture.

Over time, heavy ivy can compromise brick walls or sidings. Ivy can also be invasive; English ivy is non-native in many areas and can out-compete native plants. Furthermore, ivy screens lose leaves in winter if deciduous, or can mat up gutters.

Design & Maintenance: 

Use a supportive structure: install a trellis or cable system so vines do not attach directly to sensitive surfaces.

Prefer vine species that twine or have tendrils (like grapes or clematis) rather than ones with adhesive rootlets. Regular trimming is needed to keep growth in check. Inspect the wall periodically: if cracks form, vines may need to be cut back. On buildings, skip climbing vines altogether unless the material (e.g. concrete) tolerates them.

Ivy Wall

Lighting Requirements

Interior living walls need adequate light. Most wall plants require at least 1000 lux at the leaf surface to thrive. In practical terms, this often means installing full-spectrum LED grow lights above the wall. The lights should provide both blue (∼430–440 nm) and red (∼640–660 nm) wavelengths for photosynthesis, though the lighting can be tuned to emit a pleasing white light (for good colour rendering and aesthetics). Light uniformity is important: designers aim for a ratio of minimum/maximum illuminance ≥0.33 so that all plants receive some light.

In technical terms, lighting is measured by Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density (PPFD). A target PPFD of about 35 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ on the foliage is recommended for green walls. Over a full day, plants often need a Daily Light Integral (DLI) of roughly 1.5–4 mol·m⁻²·d⁻¹ (the exact need depends on the plant species). In many offices, natural daylight (even from windows) falls short of this, so supplemental LEDs are used. Work with a lighting engineer or horticultural lighting specialist to calculate lamp power and placement.

Lighting Checklist:
  • Provide LED fixtures rated for plant growth (or use high-CRI white LEDs).
  • Mount lights 1–2 m from the wall for even coverage.
  • Avoid UV-heavy lighting indoors (green wall plants don’t need UV and extra UV can cause fast, ungainly growth).
  • Use timers to give plants ~10–14 hours of light per day (mimicking natural days).
  • In daylight zones, choose plants suited to the light level (shade-loving ferns versus sun-loving bromeliads)
Green wall in an office setting. Ans living green wall with lights and office chairs and table

Planning and Installation Considerations

Before installing any green wall, careful planning is crucial. Key considerations include:

  • Structural Support: Assess the load-bearing capacity of the wall or support structure. A fully saturated green wall can weigh at least 50–100 kg/m² . A structural engineer should verify that the wall and anchorage can handle this weight plus wind or seismic loads. For light planters, ground-anchored frames may suffice; for heavy cladding systems, special hangers and infill panels are used.
  • Waterproofing and Drainage: Any irrigation leaks can damage the building. Install a waterproof membrane or gutter behind the green wall to collect overflow. Provide proper drainage lines to carry excess water safely away. In exterior walls, plan for stormwater connection or soakaway (for interior, a drip tray and drain to plumbing).
  • Irrigation System: Most living walls require an irrigation pump and control unit. The pump, pipes, and possibly a nutrient reservoir often live in a nearby cabinet or “plant room”. Ensure you have space and access for this equipment. Plan piping routes from a water source and to the wall, and include backflow prevention as needed. In cold climates, winterize exposed pipes.
  • Orientation and Environment: Consider sunlight, wind, and heat. South/west walls receive intense sun and can support more sun-loving plants, whereas north walls need shade-tolerant species. Also note any heat sources (e.g. windows, HVAC vents) that might stress plants. Plan for microclimate: walls under eaves get rain, exposed facades dry out quickly. 
  • Access for Maintenance: Life safety is key – plan how gardeners will reach the wall. Include scaffolding anchors, permanent catwalks, or ensure space for lifts. Design for occasional removal of panels or trimming from a platform.
  • Safety and Codes: Check fire codes (some panels must meet Class B-s3,d2 ratings for cladding). Use materials rated for interior use if inside, or UV/weather-resistant products outside. In some jurisdictions, green facades or certain heights may require permits or consultations.
  • Electrical and Other Services: Indoor green walls may need lighting or pumps – plan electrical circuits. Ensure any electrical equipment is rated for the damp environment of a green wall.
  • Integration: Coordinate with other building systems. For example, make sure irrigation water can connect to building plumbing. Avoid routing irrigation over electrical fixtures. Incorporate the green wall into the architectural design (e.g. make irrigation controls accessible, integrate base planters as furniture).

By addressing these factors up front, you ensure the green wall will perform reliably.

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Maintenance and Aftercare

Ongoing care is essential for long-term success. Living walls require routine inspections and horticultural upkeep similar to a garden or greenhouse. Below are the typical maintenance tasks:

  • Regular Watering/Irrigation Checks: Verify that drip tubes or hydroponic lines are flowing. Check timers and sensors. In hydroponic systems, replenish nutrient solution and monitor pH. In soil systems, ensure the medium remains moist (but not waterlogged). If the wall is outdoors, adjust watering for season (more in summer, less in winter).
  • Pruning and Trimming: Trim back any overgrown plants to maintain design shape and light exposure. Remove dead or diseased foliage promptly. In high-growth species, monthly pruning is common.
  • Plant Replacement: Replace plants that die or fail to thrive. A good plant company will include free plants replacement in their maintenance contract.
  • Cleaning Filters and Drippers: Clean or replace filters, flush lines to prevent algae or mineral buildup (especially in hydroponic or hard-water areas). This prevents clogs and root rot.
  • Fertilization: Depending on the system, add fertilizer to the irrigation water or apply to soil periodically. Many green wall plants are light feeders, but replenishing nutrients ensures vigor.
  • Inspect Structure: Check that panels and supports remain securely attached. Look for leaks, eroded support brackets, or corrosion. Repair any membrane damage immediately to prevent water ingress.
  • Pest and Disease Control: Watch for insects (aphids, scale) and fungal issues.  Since plant density is high, infestations can spread rapidly if unchecked.
  • Seasonal Tasks: In climates with cold winters, plants may need some protection (e.g. remove sensitive species or use temporary covers). In summer heat, increase irrigation frequency. Remove leaf litter or debris that accumulates on the wall.

Overall, consistency is key. The long-term success of a living wall is dependent upon a robust maintenance and care program. Neglecting maintenance will quickly lead to plant loss and system problems.

Inspiration and Gallery

Explore what’s possible with green walls – real projects, real impact.

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Discover ways to enhance your office environment with our expert insights on biophilic design, wellbeing, sustainability and the world of plants.

6 Plants That Induce Office Relaxation

6 Plants That Induce Office Relaxation

Recent reports have shed light on the growing concern of relax problems affecting a significant portion of the population. 

While the exact statistics may vary, it’s undeniable that relax-related issues can have far-reaching implications, impacting various aspects of life.

The discussion on relaxing, mental health, and physical well-being is now more prominent than ever. We are here to provide relaxing plants that can be incorporated into the office.

Workplace Experience Program by Planteria Group

Relaxing Plants for the Workplace

There are many things that you can do to improve your sleep. You could avoid taking caffeinated products and drinks before bedtime, engage in relaxing activities before bed, and set regular times to encourage good habits, but you could also consider adding some plant life to your bedroom. Improving your sleep quality can involve several lifestyle adjustments, such as reducing caffeine intake, practicing relaxation techniques, and adhering to a consistent sleep schedule.

However, one often overlooked remedy is the introduction of indoor plants to your office, and as experts in indoor plants and corporate flowers, we’re here to help you create a more tranquil workspace.

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Lavender: The Scent of Serenity

Lavender is renowned for its soothing fragrance, scientifically proven to reduce blood pressure and heart rate. If bedtime anxiety is a common challenge, fresh lavender by your desk might be the answer. Its calming scent and vibrant colour can set the mood for a peaceful night.

Lavender plants thrive with warmth and sunlight, making them an excellent addition to your office’s windowsill. Biophilic design is important to us and the placement of pants in the office is key and needs to work for both plant and office.

purple flowers

(Sansevieria) Snake Plant: Breathing Easier

Air quality can significantly impact your sleep quality. Excessive moisture can elevate humidity levels and contribute to mould and dust mites, causing discomfort. Snake plants excel at oxygenating your office space, improving air quality by removing harmful chemicals like xylene, trichloroethylene, toluene, benzene, and formaldehyde.

Barrier Plant, Snake Plant

Peace Lily: A Humidity Hero

Overly dry air can be as disruptive as excessive humidity. Peace lilies come to the rescue by increasing humidity levels by up to 5%, reducing issues like dry skin, static electricity, and vulnerability to colds.

A peace lily will not require much watering or light, so you can keep it right next to your bed without worrying that it has enough resources.

peace lily
AloeVera 2

Aloe Vera: A Relaxing Plant Oxygen Supplier

Aloe vera, famous for its soothing properties, produces oxygen during the night, enhancing the office environment.

It’s low-maintenance and can be placed next to your desk, soaking in the daylight alongside your lavender.

Areca Palm: The Office Air Purifier

Known for its exceptional air-purifying capabilities, the areca palm removes toxins from the air and acts as a natural humidifier, maintaining optimal air quality while you work. This plant requires a lot of bright but indirect light. If the light is too harsh, the leaves will turn yellow. 

Keep your areca palm healthy by keeping the soil moist during the spring and summer, allowing it to dry out between watering in autumn and winter.

English Ivy: A Shield Against Dampness

For offices struggling with dampness, English ivy is a formidable ally. Its sprawling leaves efficiently collect airborne mould, protecting your respiratory health.

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Are Relaxing Plants Harmful in the Office?

Contrary to concerns, most indoor plants are not harmful to keep in your office. In fact, they produce oxygen and help maintain healthy air quality. These relaxing plants, far from being harmful, are conducive to a calming and productive work environment. Discover the benefits of incorporating plants into your workplace.

When it comes to stress relief and relaxation in the office, a touch of nature can make all the difference. Transform your workspace into an oasis of serenity with our expertly curated indoor office plant selection.

 

Read More

Discover ways to enhance your office environment with our expert insights on biophilic design, wellbeing, sustainability and the world of plants.

Biophilia & other Reasons to Have Plants in the Workplace

If you’ve been reading about the buzzword Biophilia but have yet to understand what the buzz is about, then we’ve made a helpful infographic for you, designed to show you the amazing relationships that can occur between workers and plants in the modern office.

Plants truly are amazing. If you’re looking to improve your office space with some smart greenery, why not enhance your office with our office plants for hire service. Impress your workers and guests with an outstanding boardroom, ensure that they remember you as an innovative and forward-thinking company by transforming your spaces into greener, healthier, places to enjoy working in.

planteria group infographic

And if you’re interested in reading more about the joys of biophilia and the many benefits of plants, we have plenty of blogs to keep you up-to-date on the latest hints, tips and news:

   Biophilia – What is It and Why is it Important

   Indoor Air Quality: Facts & How to Improve

   The Best Plants for Your Office Environment

   Biophilic Design in the Workplace

An Exclusive Look at Contemporary Office Flower Arrangements

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When considering flower displays and office flowers, there are a number of factors to keep in mind.

Colour, scent and size of your flowers are just some of these factors, and all of these can easily contribute to a healthier and happier working environment.

 

The Benefits of Having Flowers in Your Office Space

Plants adorning contemporary office waiting area

As discussed in our recent blog post, 10 Tips for Workplace Wellness, utilising flowers and plants in the office increases productivity, reduces stress and provides cleaner air, helping your employees to have a more comfortable day at work.

Flowers and plants are visually stimulating, encouraging reduced stress levels in the individual, whilst also creating a welcoming environment for any visitors which you may have to your office.

Biophilia, which is the science behind the need to align ourselves with nature, is gaining recognition, and with it’s intrinsic ‘feel-good’ benefits having a positive impact on people in the workplace, it is clear to see why.

Having flower and plant arrangements provided by Planteria is an easy way to accomplish this.

 

Keeping Flowers on Trend

We recognise the importance of keeping flowers and plants in line with seasonal demands.

Just as in a good restaurant you’d expect to find the freshest, seasonal produce, you’d expect any good florist to have an innate understanding of the seasonality and quality of flower varieties.

This idea influences all of our corporate flower arrangements, where fresh, original and seasonal flowers are used consistently throughout the year, providing only the best flowers and plants for a stunning contemporary arrangement.

 

Contemporary Arrangements

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Today’s, arrangements tend to have fewer restrictions and vary depending on the time of year and the environment in which they are going to be situated in. For an office, examples of case studies show the difference that our flower arrangements can make to your company.

If you are working with a large amount of space, it might be worthwhile looking at the possibility of Planteria’s office plants service rather than flower arrangements. Due to their standard larger size, plants are perfect to optimise space when you think a pop of natural colour is needed.

We can offer assistance and suggestions of different planters and colour schemes too, ensuring that your plants look brilliant amidst the daily routines of your company. If physical space is limited, or a greater assortment of colour is required, opting for bright and bold flower arrangements might be more beneficial (and noticeable!).

As is common with any contemporary flower arrangement, the traditional rules do not apply. Contemporary arrangements are brighter, bolder in form, there is no size restriction, other than budget allows, and no set patterns are to be expected.

Symmetrical balance is emphasised, creating an even arrangement which is pleasing to the eye, and any part of the design may be the dominant focal point.

Take a look at how colourful office plants and contemporary corporate flower arrangements can improve the look of your office:

The options are endless when it comes to Planteria’s flowers for offices and, in such an important environment, with several health and work benefits included, the answer is clear.

Contact our friendly team of experts today by calling 0345 505 3333 or emailing enquiries@planteriagroup.com.

Moss Walls: Q & A

xNewsThumbResizex481 Greenery is much sought-after in today’s workplaces and within the hospitality industry, not only because it enhances a space visually, but it also has positive effects on health & wellbeing. There are numerous studies about boosting mental wellbeing, increasing productivity & creativity and for those in the Hospitality industry a new report indicates that having more greenery in reception areas can increase the amount of time spent in these areas, translating to more revenue generated for your business (Human Spaces Biophilic Design In Hospitality report). There are several benefits to choosing a moss wall in your workspace, including the fact that they are completely maintenance-free.  Working within facilities management, business & hospitality sectors, we can offer bespoke moss walls with your company logo or corporate colours and we can help you achieve the look you’re after, even in the smallest of spaces. Moss Walls are in high-demand, and we’ve asked our resident moss wall experts some questions to help explain what they are, how to look after them and more.   Q:   What is the difference between a moss wall and a living wall? A:   Living Walls are made up from live plants planted in modular compartments and require regular maintenance, with an irrigation system is built into the wall. Moss Walls are made from moss that has been preserved, so it won’t grow anymore, and it won’t decompose.   Q: How is the moss preserved? A: This is like asking a chef for a recipe!  The moss is usually preserved with glycerine.  The moss is then washed though using food grade type colourants, so not to be harmful in anyway, and to ensure the colour stays vibrant.   Q:   Do moss walls require water & light? A:   No, Moss Walls can go anywhere internally and no water or light is required.  This is one of the benefits of choosing a moss wall.   Q: What level of maintenance is required for a moss wall? A: No maintenance at all is required for Moss Walls other than a spot of dusting every now and then. (we recommend a feather duster)   Q:  How long does a moss wall last? A:  Moss walls are long lasting installations and will need the least care and repair if they are in lower traffic areas where they won’t get touched or bumped into.   Q:    What are my choices for a moss wall? Are there different types and colours of moss?   A:  The moss we use is available in 16 different colours, and we can create client logos or other patterns in the walls if desired (as seen in the photo above).   Q: Where can it be installed, is it suited to some environments more than others? A: Moss can be installed in any interior location, for aesthetic enhancement and/or for sound absorption.  They are not recommended for exterior use   Q:   What are the benefits of a moss wall?   A: Moss walls can help with noise reduction, they require minimal maintenance, they add greenery and a biophilic design element, help increase productivity & creativity, adds a feel-good factor to those in the space, promotes calmness and wellness and much more.   Do you have other questions not listed here?  If so, let us know so that we can answer them for you. Request your FREE quote for a moss wall today: https://www.planteriagroup.com/free-quote/

5 Things You Should Never Do to Your Office Plants

5 Things You Should Never Do to Your Office Plants

5 things you should never do to your office plants

Office plants can be great for reducing office stress, promoting productivity and creating a welcoming working environment. But plants require a certain level of care to ensure they stay healthy and thrive. Here we look at 5 things you should never do if you want to keep your office plants alive:

1. Give Them too Much Water

It’s possible to kill a plant with kindness. Too much water for your office plant can be just as bad as forgetting to water it at all. Different plants require different water levels, and you’ll know if your plant is getting too much water, because its leaves will look limp, turn yellow and fall off.

One problem with overwatering comes from placing plants on dishes allowing them to sit in a puddle after being watered, leading to potential root rot. The best method for watering a plant is to give it a good drench over a sink and then let the excess water drain away. Alternatively, you can place the plant on a dish but pour the excess water away after about ten minutes.

Person watering plant which is in yellow plant pot using jug

2. Let Them Finish Your Drink

One of the worst things you could do for your office is to ‘feed’ the plant the dregs from your cup of coffee or tea. Not only does this contribute to overwatering them, but this could cause the plant to attract sciarid flies. Similar to fruit flies, these bothersome things germinate quickly and will annoy everyone in the office.

When watering your office plant, just use water, and make sure no one in the office is using it as a make-shift sink for their beverage waste.

 

3. Keep Them in Suboptimal Conditions

Plants can feel the rise and drop in temperature just like you do and kept in the wrong conditions the plant will be unable to thrive. However, given that most indoor plants are native to tropical temperatures where conditions are warmer than what most of our gardens will experience, the temperature within your office should be a good match to help them grow.

But you should be aware of the optimal temperature range for your species of plant. Some potential problems can arise, such as keeping plants on a windowsill – whilst great for light and warmth, cold draughts in the winter can cause problems – or any sudden drops in temperature or prolonged periods of cold. Keep your plant in a good spot, where they have enough light, ideally daylight, and away from fluctuating heat. Keep an eye out for signs the temperature might be incorrect, such as flowers dying, and yellowing, wilting and falling leaves.

Plant in stone plant pot on window sill

4. Let Them Overgrow

There are several reasons to prune your office plants. You might need to trim away dead leaves or branches to keep the plant presentable. You might prune to encourage a more balanced growth habit, or you might prune to keep a runaway plant from taking over the office. Whatever the reason, you should take steps when pruning to encourage healthy growth. Pruning encourages healthy growth and should be done periodically when needed. You should be able to find out information about your plant species, regarding how and when to prune.

5. House Them Incorrectly

Plants have an ideal home in mind, just like us. Housed in the wrong place, plant growth can be stunted by a lack of light, or their leaves can become bleached from too much light. Be sure to research your office plant species to determine the levels of light needed. Consider having a light metre for the office to determine how much light you get in various places and house your office plants accordingly.

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Contact Us

Of course, the easiest thing to do is to leave it to the experts! Here at Planteria we have over 40 years of experience of finding the perfect office plants for every type of office or corporate environment. We provide a full office plant rentalplant design and maintenance service ensuring that your plants are healthy and well cared for all year round.

If you have any questions or would like to talk to us about any of our services such as corporate flower displays at Planteria Group, do not hesitate to contact us today – we will be happy to help.

Top Ways You Can Create Stunning Succulent Displays

succulents in antique bird cage

Succulent plants are currently riding the crest of the trend wave, appearing in homes and gardens across the country.

Here we take a look at why they are so fashionable, how to care for succulents and how you can create stunning, on-trend displays for inside or outside your home.

succulents in white compressed round bowl

How to Care for Succulents

As with all plants, the line of best practice is to replicate as far as possible their natural growing conditions. Think of the mantra, ‘right plant, right place’.

Originating from hot, arid climes, succulents are actually very low maintenance; they just need light, warmth and minimal water in order to thrive so if you’re not particularly green-fingered, succulents are the perfect choice.

succulents in white pot, glass jar and wooden tray

If you consider that succulents are often found in desert regions, it makes sense that they don’t like to be kept for a prolonged period in saturated ground as these aren’t the conditions they would naturally experience.

Our top tip therefore is to use a general-purpose compost mixed with at least one-third horticultural grit; the open nature of the compost allows root development while the grit enables any excess water to drain away easily.

succulents in white bowls on office desk

Keep your succulents happy by giving them a good drink once a week during the summer months and then allow the compost to dry out completely before the next watering, which will replicate a period of drought.

Another top tip is to use rainwater if possible – and this applies to all plants, not just succulents – as the minerals in tap water can cause a build-up in the soil and therefore reduce its quality in addition to staining the beautiful foliage.

 

How to Create Stunning Succulent Displays

The overwhelming majority of succulents prefer to be a sunny spot, which makes them such versatile options. The only note of caution is that, particularly in the more northern areas of the UK, most succulents aren’t winter hardy. This means they don’t like frost and will benefit from protection, either by moving them to a more sheltered position such as against a wall or bringing them inside.

During the winter, many succulents prefer to have no water at all as this enables them to enter a period of dormancy. This form of hibernation helps replenish energy for flowers for the following season, so you really do have to be cruel to be kind when it comes to succulents!

Apart from the bigger, ‘statement’ specimens, succulents are mostly compact and slow-growing which means they can be accommodated almost anywhere.

Practically any vessel can be used to plant up succulents – as long as it can safely be modified by creating a drainage hole to allow water to escape – with old teapots, wellington boots or even old bird cages being great examples of the current ‘repurposing’ trend.

succulents in white antique looking bird cage

succulents in white antique looking bird cage

A group of planted-up succulents together, particularly with a theme, makes a for an interesting focal point display that looks great.

You can put an individual, quirky twist into your home or garden – a great excuse not to throw that old biscuit tin away!

Continuing the theme of ‘bringing the outside in’, a terrarium planted up with succulents is perfect to create a contemporary, minimalist interior.

By dressing it with decorative stones, you can add a touch of modern elegance to your home which has the added bonus of protecting succulent leaves from splashback when watering and so avoiding staining the beautiful foliage.

A popular favourite at the moment is to create a miniature ‘fairy garden’ with the small stature of succulents being ideal to replicate a tiny world and additional accessories, such as fairy doors or pathways, are widely available to add that finishing touch.

Another current gardening trend is to utilise the vertical axis within our space. Succulents offer the perfect opportunity to do this either by creating a living roof – in which a shallow planter is fixed to the top of a structure such as a shed, for example – or by a ‘green wall’ where plants are potted up together, usually in a pre-made wall hanger. This is an especially effective trick if you only have a small outdoor area.

The succulent family is wide-ranging with thousands of varieties available so here we provide a list of our favourites to help you choose the right ones for you.

 

Statement Succulents for the Garden

The Zwartkop (aeonium arboretum) is a plant that likes to be noticed. Also known as ‘the black rose’, the dark burgundy leaves are a perfect rosette shape which can reach up to 20 inches high.
An added bonus is that during the winter, this plant produces stunning yellow flowers to provide interest all year round.

Aloe Vera, or Medicinal Aloe can be grown in a planter in the garden in summer months but is best brought inside in the winter. You probably know the many benefits of this fleshy succulent, so why not grow your own to use on  sunburned or irritated skin,, but it’s also thought to relieve constipation and even treat cancer when ingested (though these last two claims have not been scientifically proven).

Smaller Succulents for a Terrarium Display

Hens and Chicks (sempervivum tectorum) is also known as the ‘house leek’ and originates in the mountainous regions of Southern Europe. It is one of the more commonly-known succulents and is recognisable by its small clusters of rosette leaves.

The mother (hen) cluster produces reddish-purple flowers and is mat-forming if left to grow so is ideal for a living roof or great for keeping in a controlled environment such as a terrarium or other planter

The Jade Plant (crassula ovata) is a very popular succulent house plant, and it is also known as the friendship tree, lucky plant, money plant or moneytree. Much of its popularity stems from the low level of care needed; the jade plant requires little water and can survive in most indoor conditions. It is commonly used in the art of Feng Shui and believed to bring luck and wealth to the grower.

Once established as a mature plant, it forms a miniature tree-like structure, with a thick trunk and branches. Leaves are thick, fleshy and opal shaped in a deep, glossy jade green.We here at Planteria Group hope that this guide has provided you with some advice on how to care for succulents and of course some inspiration to create stunning succulent displays of your own.

succulents in gold antique looking bird cage

Our specialism is providing plants and flowers for our Corporate clients, so if you are looking to add terrariums, succulents or plants to your office, hotel or restaurant and if you have any questions or would like to talk to one of our team about our products and services, please take a look at our website or get in touch.

The Best Plants for Your Office Environment

plants in large green house

In our office, if you want to take a break, there is no better way to re-charge your batteries and stretch your legs than with a couple of laps around our greenhouse. Filled with lush plants in every hue – from the broad glossy leaves of a Croton Petra, dappled with gold and red, to the soft fronds of bright green palms – there are so many varieties in every imaginable shape and size.

Run by Martin Collins and Robert Gilder, our greenhouse covers approximately 5,500 square feet and gives us the perfect conditions for housing our carefully managed stock.

When we visit a new client, we discuss their ideas, colour preferences and corporate branding. We then suggest the best varieties of plant to enhance their interior décor; working with the lighting conditions and heat levels of a building is paramount. Particularly sunny offices will need very different plants to dark offices, and we need to ensure both kinds will thrive. When we are happy that we’ve got it just right, we will order our plants in from specialist growers to arrive in time for installation.

man at desk next to windowplanters on wood lined wall

Having our fantastic greenhouse means we have plenty of space and the perfect environment to plant-up our new installations, in-house rather an on-site. With this approach the Plants are already beginning to become established in their planters or containers before they are delivered to the client. It’s also safer and more stable for the plants to be transported in this manner.

Our plant technicians will continue to care for our clients’ plants, even after they have been installed; their tasks may involve cleaning, feeding, cutting-back and sometimes replacing plants. In this case, a technician will use their smart phone to alert the service team and order a new plant. The plant is then placed in the technician’s own individual bay in our greenhouse, ready for the next visit to the client.

One of the biggest benefits of our greenhouse is the variety of office plants that we’re able to keep in stock. Our wide selection of plants ensures that we can respond quickly to problems, guaranteeing that our clients always have perfect plants in their offices and receptions.

Here’s a small selection of the office plants we keep in our greenhouse:

Ficus Benjamina – commonly known as weeping fig, benjamin fig or Ficus tree
Howea Forsteriana – commonly known as Kentia palm
Dracaena Janet Craig – commonly known as dragon tree
Dracaena Marginata – commonly known as Madagascar dragon tree
Yucca – specifically perennial shrubs and trees, often confused with root vegetables by the same name
Agloenema – commonly known as Chinese evergreens
Sanseviera – Common names include mother-in-law’s tongue, devil’s tongue, jinn’s tongue, bow string hemp, snake plant and snake tongue
Guzmania – commonly known as tufted airplant
Plus a wide variety of indoor orchids

pink orchids in black glazed plant pot

Along with our greenhouse at our Henham HQ, we also have polytunnels for storing exterior planting, such as the popular Buxus and seasonal bedding plants, plus a floristry workshop which is approximately 2000 square feet and specialist cold-stores to ensure optimal storage for fresh flowers.

So, as you can see, we’re fully equipped to store and maintain the very best plants for your office environment. If you’d like us to create some beautiful interior planting for you, give us a call to find out more about our office plant service. We love what we do and would love to help you.