Vertical gardens are an excellent solution for those who want to incorporate a touch of nature in small spaces.
One of the most common questions among those considering this option is: what is the minimum size to install a vertical garden?
The good news is that there is actually no fixed minimum size.
There are commercial solutions that allow you to create green spaces even in areas as small as 30×30 cm.
What is the recommended minimum size of a vertical garden?
While there is no strict standard, smaller vertical gardens usually start at dimensions of 30×30 cm or 40×40 cm.
These types of installations are ideal for limited spaces, such as balconies or small walls. However, it should be noted that, due to the reduced size, these gardens require more manual maintenance.
In our experience at Singular Green, we always explain to customers that in such small gardens, watering and fertiliser control must be done manually.
This involves looking after the plants almost daily to ensure that they grow healthily. This type of maintenance turns the vertical garden into an almost handcrafted piece of work.
Small vertical gardens: options starting at 30×30 cm
The modular systems available on the market allow gardening enthusiasts to install vertical gardens in a wide variety of sizes.
From the smallest kits, 30×30 cm, to larger options, these systems offer the flexibility to adapt the garden to any corner of the home.
At Singular Green, we have found that in these smaller formats, manual maintenance is unavoidable. However, for many plant lovers, this is not a drawback, but an opportunity to experiment with new species and replace those that are not thriving.
Factors to consider when choosing the size of a vertical garden
The size of your vertical garden will depend on several factors, such as available space, access to light and the type of plants you wish to include.
Available space and location
One of the first things to consider is where the vertical garden will be located.
If you have an empty wall in your living room, a narrow hallway or a small terrace, you could opt for a smaller installation. At Singular Green, we have worked with clients who wish to cover several walls, but for economic or structural reasons, they opt for smaller gardens.
For example, one client intended to install gardens on three walls of his terrace, but ultimately chose a 2.5 square metre installation on one wall.
Such decisions affect not only the aesthetics of the garden, but also the maintenance and installation costs.
Irrigation and automation requirements in vertical gardens
Another important factor is the irrigation system.
In our experience, when vertical gardens are small, it is difficult to automate irrigation.
‘From 2 square metres upwards, it is more feasible to install automatic systems, which considerably reduces the maintenance work’.
This is crucial for those who cannot devote time to watering plants on a daily basis or who prefer a garden that works more autonomously.
Small vertical gardens: commercial solutions and kits
If you are looking for a vertical garden in a small space, commercial options are numerous. Vertical garden kits are an excellent alternative for DIY projects, as they come with the necessary components for installation.
Vertical garden kits: What are the options?
These kits usually include the panels, manual watering systems and a set of plants. Some are designed specifically for indoors, while others are more suitable for outdoors. Dimensions vary, but most of the kits available have minimum dimensions of 30×30 cm or 40×40 cm.
Examples of installations in small spaces
In Singular Green, one of the most interesting cases we have had was in a small terrace, where a client wanted to cover three walls, but due to economic and structural limitations, he decided for a vertical garden of 2 meters high by 1 meter wide.
This type of garden is perfect for those who are looking for an aesthetic, efficient and low maintenance solution.
Automation in vertical gardens: From what minimum size of garden is it advisable?
While small vertical gardens require intensive manual maintenance, when it comes to larger gardens, automation of irrigation and fertilisation can greatly facilitate the care process.
When to install automatic irrigation systems?
At SingularGreen, we recommend the installation of automated irrigation systems for minimum vertical garden sizes of 2 square metres and above.
This includes fertiliser spreaders, solenoid valves and programmers that control the supply of water and nutrients. These systems reduce daily maintenance, as the plants receive proper care without constant intervention.
In our experience, in larger gardens, maintenance is no longer daily, but monthly. This allows homeowners to enjoy their garden without worrying about its constant care.
Costs and benefits of automation in vertical gardens
Automation, although it involves an initial investment, offers long-term benefits, especially in large vertical gardens.
‘The pro-rata installation and automation is more cost-effective in areas of 2 m² and above’, says SingularGreen.
In addition, this type of garden is more sustainable, as controlled irrigation reduces water consumption and improves the health of the plants.
Conclusion
The minimum size for a vertical garden will depend on your needs and the space available.
While smaller gardens of 30×30 cm require more manual maintenance, in installations of 2 square metres and larger it is possible to automate watering and other care. If you are looking for a green solution for a small space, there are commercial kits that will allow you to install your own vertical garden, no matter how small the space is.
