Indoor vertical gardens, also known as green walls, offer several practical benefits that align with your goals to enhance your living space’s beauty, comfort, health, and sustainability.

These benefits encompass improvements in air quality, temperature regulation, and mental well-being.

Air purification is a notable advantage of indoor green walls.

Studies show that green walls effectively reduce harmful indoor pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide (NO2), particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), and ozone (O3).

Specifically, green walls can decrease NO2 and PM10 levels by approximately 40% and 60%, respectively; reduce finer particulate matter (PM2.5) by around 10%; and lower ozone concentrations by about 30% .

This pollutant reduction contributes to healthier indoor air by limiting toxins that can exacerbate respiratory problems and allergies.

These benefits come without relying on electrical air purifiers, making green walls an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly option for improving indoor air quality.

Moreover, they contribute to carbon reduction efforts by absorbing CO2, thereby having a positive impact on the environment beyond the immediate home setting .

Temperature regulation is another valuable function of indoor vertical gardens.

Green walls can reduce indoor temperatures by approximately 1.8 degrees Celsius, which helps maintain a more comfortable indoor climate.

This natural cooling effect can reduce reliance on air conditioning, leading to energy savings and lower utility bills.

The plants' transpiration and shading effects help buffer temperature fluctuations and improve thermal comfort throughout the day .

In addition to physical health benefits, indoor green walls have been found to positively impact mental health.

Presence of and interaction with living plants indoors have been shown to lower stress levels and reduce anxiety.

Psychological studies demonstrate that viewing and caring for indoor plants can decrease blood pressure, improve mood, and alleviate symptoms of depression.

These effects are especially significant in situations of isolation, such as during lockdowns, where indoor greenery provides a calming and restorative environment.

The enhanced sense of well-being associated with green walls contributes to a healthier, more comfortable living atmosphere .

Regarding maintenance, vertical gardens come with specific care requirements that homeowners should consider before installation.

Challenges include ensuring adequate light exposure, regulating temperature, preventing pests, and managing watering schedules.

Since vertical gardens use a limited amount of space, it is essential to optimize conditions for the plants selected.

Light availability can be addressed by positioning the green wall near windows or supplementing natural light with grow lights suitable for indoor plants.

Temperature control indoors is necessary to replicate the preferred environment for chosen plants, particularly in climates that undergo seasonal changes.

Watering needs vary by plant species but generally require learning about moisture requirements and establishing a reliable irrigation method, which can range from manual watering to automated drip systems.

Pest control should focus on organic or non-toxic methods to preserve indoor air quality and avoid harmful chemicals.

These maintenance aspects, especially balancing light and watering needs and managing pests, can become complex without professional assistance and may pose difficulties for inexperienced gardeners .

While home vertical gardens can be maintained with regular attention by homeowners, some complexity and time investment exist, and professional advice or assistance can be valuable during design and upkeep phases .

Cost considerations for vertical garden installation and maintenance vary widely depending on scale, design complexity, plant selection, and whether professional services are used.

Small-scale or DIY vertical gardens can be quite cost-effective, achieved through strategies such as introducing potted plants in vertical racks or repurposing existing spaces with minimal additions.

Creating simple indoor green spaces, such as Zen gardens incorporating mosses, ferns, or small shrubs, can also enhance aesthetic appeal affordably.

This approach typically requires a lower budget and is accessible to many homeowners interested in hands-on gardening .

On the other hand, hiring a landscape designer or installer will increase upfront costs but can optimize plant choices, layout, and irrigation systems to maximize benefits, reduce maintenance difficulties, and ensure a long-lasting installation with professional support .

Overall, with proper planning, vertical gardens can fit a range of budgets and still deliver significant benefits.

Plant selection for vertical gardens is critical and varies according to climate and indoor conditions.

Tropical or warmer climates and homes with higher humidity and temperatures can successfully support species like palms (majesty palm, areca palm), croton, mandevilla vines, and certain ferns.

These plants typically require higher moisture levels and thrive with adequate shading and regular watering.

For temperate or low-light indoor environments, hardy, low-maintenance plants with air-purifying qualities are preferable.

Popular choices include snake plants (Sansevieria), pothos (Epipremnum aureum), spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum), Chinese evergreens (Aglaonema), jade plants (Crassula ovata), and succulents such as kalanchoe and aloe vera.

These species tolerate lower light levels and require less frequent watering, making them suitable for typical residential interiors .

For arid climates, succulent varieties and cacti dominate due to their drought tolerance and minimal upkeep .

Tropical-style indoor gardens or green walls demand greater attention to environmental control.

This includes maintaining steady temperature and humidity levels, providing appropriate shade to avoid plant stress, and ensuring well-draining yet moisture-retentive soil.

When outdoor conditions do not support these plants, creating indoor controlled environments, such as greenhouses or terrarium-like setups, may be necessary.

Additionally, wind protection and layout planning, including incorporation of decorative elements, help maintain plant health and enhance overall garden aesthetics .

In summary, indoor vertical gardens provide multiple, practical benefits supporting improved air quality, temperature regulation, and enhanced mental health.

While maintenance requires ongoing attention to light, water, and pest control, many homeowners can manage these tasks effectively, especially with suitable plant selection tailored to their home climate.

Vertical gardens are adaptable to various budgets, from small, low-cost DIY projects to professionally designed installations.

By choosing the right plants and understanding upkeep needs, you can create a beautiful, healthy, and sustainable vertical garden that significantly enriches your indoor living environment.

For further depth, it may be useful to explore specific case studies quantifying energy savings, detailed plant care schedules, cost-benefit analyses comparing professional versus DIY installation, and additional psychological studies detailing mental health outcomes associated with particular plant species.

Indoor vertical gardens, also known as green walls, offer several practical benefits that align with your goals to enhance your living space’s beauty, comfort, health, and sustainability.

Title:

Content: 6 Easy Ways to Build an Indoor Garden
CHITING CHANG – HOMIFY
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Indoor plants are not only beautiful, they bring natural greenery to your room, they also have the function of purifying toxins in the air.
If you don ’ t have a large garden or balcony space to grow flowers and plants, you can still work on creating a small garden indoors.
Today ’ s idea book will teach you 6 simple ways to build an indoor garden.
After reading these methods, you should no longer be able to use the space limit as an excuse!
1. Palm Trees
If you want to plant a tree indoors, you must choose plants that can survive in low light conditions.
An atmospheric, tropical palm tree is the perfect choice.
If you have concerns about the frequency of watering and the temperature in the room, ask a professional for more details.
2.
Glass bonsai
Terrarium Installations
The Urban Botanist
Easy to handle, small glass potted plants are ideal for small suites or work desks! You can choose large glass containers, such as old light bulbs, fish tanks, candy cans, etc., then put a small stone as the bottom, spread the moss, and then put the soil.
The next step is to put your plants in the soil and then spread the moss.
When finished, you can put on your favorite decorations again, so that the simple glass potted plant is finished.
3.
Fill the walls with plants.
Green walls can be the most natural decoration in the home, and can also remove toxins from the air and improve the quality of life.
Although the idea is simple, building a green wall can be a tricky task, and if you are not confident in your DIY skills, you can consult with homify experts.
4.
Hang the plants on the wall.
Hanging Vintage Garden Tap Planter
ELLA JAMES
If the above green wall is a bit too much, then you can choose to hang plants on the wall.
If you don ’ t like the general method, you can follow the above example and choose the potted plants made of water taps, so that your potted plants can also be used as decorations in your home.
5.
Kitchen Spices
The easiest way to create an indoor garden is to plant the herbs you need.
Put your favorite herbs in the kitchen, in addition to making the kitchen full of green surprises, you can also let the vanilla smell in the air.
6.
Make your living space green
We love the concept of an indoor garden!
Put a wooden table on the plant of the tree, it becomes a unique tree table.
When guests come to visit, do you have the feeling of playing chess and making tea in the old banyan tree?
More Inspiration for Interior Decoration: 17 Simple and Affordable Ways to Make Your Home Better
Do you need someone to help you design or build your home?
Find a professional now!
Find out more about home design!

These benefits encompass improvements in air quality, temperature regulation, and mental well-being.

Title:

Content: Hong Kong Wen
Ephesians 2
Recycling of Microalgae Water for Feed to Create a Circular Economy
[Ming Pao News] Microalgae microorganisms occupy small space, grow fast, photosynthesis is strong, and have a certain nutritional value, and in the increasingly high demand for environmental protection, in recent years more and more attention.
Some local enterprises began installing “microalgae reactors ” for the government and enterprises a few years ago, initially to improve indoor air quality, as well as as carbon reduction projects and green decoration, and later developed into the supply of microalgae powder to local lobster farms to add to the feed.
Ming Pao reporter Xue Wai Kit
Photographer Yang Po-hsien
Greentins Horticulture founder Tian Cheng-hui said that the company was founded in 2005, originally to represent foreign waste wood and plastic made of "green wood". In 2011, the company began to install a "soilless green wall" for enterprises to grow plants indoors, on the one hand, can green the indoor; on the other hand, can absorb carbon dioxide. I) Collaborate on the development of "Microalgae Reactor".
Simply put, this is a container filled with water to cultivate microalgae, but in order to enhance the photosynthesis of microalgae and maximize their ability to absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, the microalgae reactor is also equipped with adjustable LED lights, and constantly pump indoor air through the air pump to let the air pass through the water for cultivating microalgae.
Microalgae reactors in offices help reduce carbon
Optimized with 50 liters of microalgae water, the microalgae reactor can remove up to 5,500 kg of carbon dioxide per year; 1 cubic meter of microalgae water is more efficient than 100 square meters of forest.
Therefore, if you need to offset the amount of carbon dioxide emissions, installing microalgae reactors in the office is much easier and simpler than traditional tree planting.
In addition, it can also improve the air quality in the office and help improve the efficiency of employees.
Because many studies have pointed out that the carbon dioxide concentration in the air in a good office environment should be between 400 and 800 ppm; if the carbon dioxide concentration is between 800 and 1200 ppm, employees feel bored and tired.
Reduced CO2 levels increase employee productivity
However, when the microalgae reactor was launched in early 2019, the response of enterprises was lukewarm.
On the one hand, some companies do not know much about microalgae; other companies feel that the cylindrical pipe appearance of microalgae reactors is difficult to cooperate with indoor decoration.
Fortunately, the company attracted the attention of the FEHD when it participated in a seminar and exhibited microalgae reactors in the Science Park.
Subsequently, the FEHD installed microalgae reactors in two public toilets, followed by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department's Kowloon Bay Headquarters.
In addition to the increasing pressure on large enterprises to publish the ESG (Environmental Protection, Social Responsibility, Corporate Governance) report, the company also provides an additional option to combine microalgae reactors and soilless green walls to beautify their appearance, and finally attract corporate inquiries and procurement.
In September last year, the company ’ s microalgae reactor was recognized as a “negative carbon emission ” environmental protection device by the Certification Center of the Chinese Manufacturers ’ Association of Hong Kong, meaning that it removes far more carbon dioxide than it emits.
According to their experience, the carbon dioxide concentration in the indoor air in local offices is usually over 1000ppm, which is a high level.
In general, the company recommends to customers that the number of microalgae reactors purchased should be sufficient to control the CO2 concentration within 800 ppm.
As of June, the company ’ s microalgae reactors have been installed in more than 20 indoor venues in Hong Kong. For the time being, government departments are still the sector with the largest number of purchases.
However, the construction industry has also had a lot of enquiries recently, and it is likely to overtake the government departments in the future.
Some construction companies have expressed their intention to hire multiple sets of microalgae reactors to be placed on the site during the construction period in the future to offset some of the CO2 emissions.
The biggest recent breakthrough was the supply of microalgae powder to Chien Kuo Seafood, which was added to its synthetic lobster feed.
Tian Cheng-hui revealed that because the microalgae in the microalgae reactor will continue to multiply, the number of microalgae will increase rapidly, causing the microalgae water to gradually become dark.
Therefore, the company will regularly go to the door to recover the old microalgae water, and replace it with new water and microalgae for customers, about once a month.
As for the old microalgae water, it will filter the water, and then squeeze, dry, sterilize, and crush to become a dry microalgae powder.
In the past, the company mainly added microalgae powder back to a small amount of water to make a liquid fertilizer for soilless green walls.
Chien Kwok Seafood ’ s founder Lin Pi-hsia said that the company has a seawater fish and lobster farm in the Yung Shu Au fish and shrimp farm in Sai Kung, covering an area of tens of thousands of square feet, which is one of the very few seawater fish farms and lobster farms certified by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). It is currently the only breeding ground for lobsters.
She pointed out that lobster protein content is much higher than sea fish, so its nutritional needs are also diversified. They are usually given different feeds daily, such as small fish, green mouth, shell, oysters, etc.
The company last year designed a synthetic lobster feed that was fed every four to five days as a nutritional supplement.
Microalgae contain protein at affordable prices
When they heard Tian Cheng-hui ’ s proposal, they also felt that there was some reason, because microalgae contains certain protein and microalgae oil, and microalgae powder is affordable, which is also in line with the concept of low carbon, environmental protection and circular economy.
Therefore, the company began to include microalgae powder as one of the ingredients in its synthetic lobster feed design earlier this year, which also helps to reduce the overall cost.
In the future, the company intends to gradually test the inclusion of microalgae powder in some marine fish feed, especially when some fish eat high-priced feed imported from Taiwan. If the use of microalgae powder can reduce the amount of imported feed, it will help to improve cost-effectiveness and reduce carbon emissions.
Related Words: Creative Line
Previous / Next News

Air purification is a notable advantage of indoor green walls.

Studies show that green walls effectively reduce harmful indoor pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide (NO2), particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), and ozone (O3).

Title:

Content: Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi City, Chiayi County, Chiayi
The school received an environmental subsidy of NT $220,000 two years ago to plant large Dumbo flowers to form a green wall, which helps to cool down the temperature and purify the air, and also to install an automatic sprinkler system to maintain the ecology of the green wall.
According to the Environmental Protection Bureau of Chiayi City Government, since 2019, the Environmental Protection Department has promoted the vertical air green wall project. Since 2019, three schools, including Xingjia, Jiabei Elementary School and Jiabei Elementary School, have installed climbing plants on the school's daughter wall and the balcony of the classroom.
The Environmental Protection Bureau of the Chiayi Municipal Government said that this year, the Environmental Protection Agency expanded the target of subsidies, in addition to the original subsidies of public middle school, public elementary school, public preschool institutions, public welfare groups, public facilities, environmental protection night market, civic activity center and other venues, air green wall subsidies of 3,000 to 6,000 yuan per square meter, single subsidy ceiling of 400,000 yuan.
According to the Municipal Environmental Protection Agency, according to the results of the study, vertical green walls can reduce the concentration of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), suspended particulates (PM10) by about 40% and 60%, but also reduce the concentration of indoor fine suspended particulates (PM2.5) by about 10%, ozone by about 30%, and indoor temperature reduction by about 1.8 ℃.
According to the city's Environmental Protection Bureau, the appropriate plant types are lily bamboo, firecracker red, Yunnan yellow carnation, turtle, Boston kidney fern, hydrangea, African pansy or panthera, and can be selected according to the space planning and installation requirements, so that the space is more beautiful.
# Green Wall # Cooling # EPB # EPD # Planting

Specifically, green walls can decrease NO2 and PM10 levels by approximately 40% and 60%, respectively; reduce finer particulate matter (PM2.5) by around 10%; and lower ozone concentrations by about 30% .

Title:

Content: In order to improve the environmental air quality and let children learn with peace of mind, the Taichung Municipal Environmental Protection Bureau has continued to build a clean air green wall in the school. This year, 12 schools in Jianping Elementary School, Juren Elementary School and Chongde Elementary School have received subsidies from the Environmental Protection Department.
According to the Environmental Protection Bureau, through the installation of clean air green walls, indoor air quality can be improved. At present, space such as classroom corridors and flower stands outside the daughter wall in Taichung City can be planted, which can achieve the benefits of dust retention, air pollution absorption and temperature regulation.
In order to strengthen the protection of the school environment for children, the Taichung City Environmental Protection Bureau expanded the subsidy for the construction of a clean air green wall on the campus, and the current subsidy amount to 1.76 million yuan, with an area of 358 square meters.
The Environmental Protection Bureau stressed that currently selected plants that can purify the air and do not need to spend too much money and time to maintain include the Dragon Tubeh, the Junzi and Wu Bamboo, the Turtle, the Cannonflower or the Honeysuckle.
How good is the effect of clean air green wall?
According to international research, vertical clean air green walls can reduce the concentration of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter (PM10) by about 40% and 60%. In addition, green walls can also reduce the concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in classrooms by about 10% and the concentration of ozone (O3) by about 30%.
Green wall is the most natural and energy efficient air purification facilities, no need to plug in electricity, self-circulation, to achieve the purpose of air purification, can be called the "most environmentally friendly air purifier".
Chen Hongyi, director of the Environmental Protection Bureau, said that in addition to blocking outdoor pollutants and improving indoor air, the air green wall can also adjust the temperature and drive energy conservation and carbon reduction. Next year, Taichung City is expected to expand the subsidy target, including community activity centers, public kindergartens and environmental night markets.
# Green Wall # Air # Cleanliness # Campus # Environment

This pollutant reduction contributes to healthier indoor air by limiting toxins that can exacerbate respiratory problems and allergies.

These benefits come without relying on electrical air purifiers, making green walls an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly option for improving indoor air quality.

Moreover, they contribute to carbon reduction efforts by absorbing CO2, thereby having a positive impact on the environment beyond the immediate home setting .

Temperature regulation is another valuable function of indoor vertical gardens.

Title:

Content: 5 Common Indoor Gardening Challenges And Their Solutions

Saloni Singh
Updated on Jan 22, 2024, 19:36 IST- 5 min read

Indoor gardening is a wonderful way to bring nature into your home and enjoy the benefits of growing plants all year round. However, it comes with its own set of challenges that can sometimes discourage even the most experienced gardeners. In this article, we will explore five common indoor gardening challenges and provide practical solutions to help you overcome them.

The Growing Trend of Indoor Gardening

In recent years, indoor gardening has gained immense popularity among plant enthusiasts. It allows individuals to create a green oasis within the comfort of their homes, regardless of the outdoor climate. However, indoor gardening comes with its own unique challenges that require careful attention and solutions to ensure the thriving growth of your plants.

Unsplash/Representational Image

Challenge 1: Insufficient Light

One of the most common challenges faced by indoor gardeners is the lack of sufficient light. Since natural sunlight is limited indoors, providing adequate light for your plants becomes crucial. Insufficient light can lead to weak growth, leggy stems, and poor flowering.

Solution: To overcome this challenge, you can consider the following solutions:

Place your plants near windows with the brightest light exposure.

Use artificial grow lights, such as fluorescent or LED lights, to supplement the natural light.

Rotate your plants regularly to ensure all sides receive equal light exposure.

Challenge 2: Temperature Control

Maintaining the right temperature for your indoor garden can be a tricky task. Fluctuations in temperature can affect plant growth and overall health. Extreme heat or cold can cause stress and even lead to plant damage.

Solution: Here are some solutions to help you maintain optimal temperature levels:

Identify the temperature requirements of your plants and adjust the indoor environment accordingly.

Use thermostats or temperature-controlled devices to regulate the temperature.

Place plants away from drafts and heating or cooling sources that may cause sudden temperature changes.

Unsplash/Representational Image

Challenge 3: Proper Watering Techniques

Watering plants is a fundamental aspect of gardening, but it can be challenging to strike the right balance. Overwatering or underwatering can have detrimental effects on plant health and growth.

Solution: Follow these guidelines for proper watering:

Learn the specific watering needs of each plant in your indoor garden.

Check the moisture level of the soil before watering.

Provide adequate drainage to prevent waterlogged roots.

Challenge 4: Pest Infestations

Indoor plants are not immune to pests. Common pests, such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites, can quickly infest your indoor garden if left unchecked. These pests can weaken your plants and hinder their growth.

Solution: Implement the following measures to tackle pest infestations:

Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests.

Use organic pest control methods, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Isolate affected plants to prevent the spread of pests.

Challenge 5: Limited Space

One of the significant challenges of indoor gardening is dealing with limited space. As your plant collection grows, finding suitable areas to accommodate them becomes increasingly difficult.

Solution: Here are some solutions for optimizing limited space:

Utilize vertical space by hanging plants or using wall-mounted planters.

Choose compact plant varieties or those that can be trained to grow vertically.

Group plants with similar needs together to make the most of available space.

Unsplash/Representational Image

Indoor gardening offers a rewarding experience, but it requires addressing common challenges effectively. By understanding the obstacles like insufficient light, temperature control, proper watering techniques, pest infestations, and limited space, you can create a thriving indoor garden. Implementing the suggested solutions will help you overcome these challenges and enjoy the beauty of nature within your home.

FAQs

1. How often should I water my indoor plants? The watering frequency depends on various factors such as plant type, size, and environmental conditions. It is best to check the moisture level of the soil before watering to ensure it is neither too dry nor waterlogged.

2. Can I use regular household lights for indoor gardening? Regular household lights are not sufficient for promoting healthy plant growth. It is recommended to use specialized grow lights, such as fluorescent or LED lights, to provide adequate light intensity and spectrum for your plants.

3. What are some natural remedies for pest control in indoor gardens? Several natural remedies can help control pests in indoor gardens. Neem oil, insecticidal soap, and homemade vinegar sprays are effective in combating common pests. However, always follow the instructions and test them on a small portion of the plant before widespread application.

4. How can I make the most of limited space in my indoor garden? To maximize limited space, consider utilizing vertical space by hanging plants or using wall-mounted planters. Choose compact plant varieties or those that can be trained to grow vertically. Grouping plants with similar needs together can also help optimize space.

5. Can I grow vegetables indoors? Yes, you can grow a variety of vegetables indoors. Leafy greens like lettuce and herbs like basil are well-suited for indoor cultivation. Tomatoes, peppers, and microgreens are also popular choices for indoor vegetable gardening.

In conclusion, indoor gardening comes with its own set of challenges, but with the right knowledge and strategies, you can overcome them. By addressing the issues of insufficient light, temperature control, proper watering, pest infestations, and limited space, you can create a thriving indoor garden that brings beauty and serenity to your home. Remember to adapt the solutions to suit your specific plant needs and enjoy the benefits of a flourishing indoor garden.

Green walls can reduce indoor temperatures by approximately 1.8 degrees Celsius, which helps maintain a more comfortable indoor climate.

This natural cooling effect can reduce reliance on air conditioning, leading to energy savings and lower utility bills.

Title:

Content: Cities in which we live
0
Anastasia Schwartz
By 2050, the UN estimates that almost 70% of the world ’ s population will live in cities, making sustainable urbanization one of the priorities of global development.
collage by Pavel Tsedilin
Urbanization is still one of the main global trends of the 21st century and requires close attention.
In fact, how cities develop will determine the future of countries and societies, as well as the solution of many problems of global importance.
The fact is that most of the inhabitants of the Earth do not just live in cities.
Cities account for about 60% of global GDP.
Cities are the leaders in energy consumption (60-80%) and CO2 emissions (about 75%).
Cities are the most vulnerable to the effects of climate change and other global threats, but they can also make a significant contribution to combating them.
The high concentration of the population in cities critically exacerbates the problems of inequality, security, access to public and economic benefits.
Kazakhstan also faces all the challenges and threats of urbanization.
In our country, the share of the urban population already has more than 60%, and this figure will only grow.
According to the UN, in the coming decades, 95% of urbanization in principle will fall on developing countries.
Therefore, the question of how to make cities sustainable, safe, open, liveable, conducive to economic growth and even the formation of a new quality of the nation is not a question of some abstract future, but a problem whose solution should have begun, as they say, yesterday.
Diseases of growth
In the Sustainable Development Goals, the global agenda of the UN until 2030, a separate SDG is devoted to urban development: it goes under number 11 and is formulated as follows: “Sustainable cities and human settlements ”.
Sustainability is not just about the environment.
The economy and infrastructure of cities must also be sustainable, they must be safe and convenient for people, and they must ensure equal access to the benefits of urbanization for all.
They should contribute to the development of people and societies, the preservation of cultural heritage and so on.
In short, human settlements development should solve the problems of the people living there, not create new ones.
Cities should be drivers of development of countries and societies, not a source of “headaches ”.
The fact that sustainable urban development has become one of the key topics on the global agenda is more than justified.
According to experts, since 2007, more than half of the world ’ s population lives in cities.
And by the middle of the century, according to UN estimates, this figure will grow to almost 70%.
Cities occupy less than 5% of the Earth ’ s land area.
Rapid urbanization obviously carries great risks for which many countries were not prepared.
“Growth diseases ” in all cities, in principle, are similar: housing problems, chaotic growth, congestion of infrastructure (both transport and engineering, social), deterioration of air quality, and so on.
Many of these problems are familiar to the cities of Kazakhstan.
Take at least Astana, which, even being a completely new and relatively small city, is fully faced with the challenges of urbanization: ill-conceived and poor-quality development, interruptions in water supply, smog, traffic jams, environmental problems, lack of schools, underdevelopment of public spaces, uneven development of different areas of the city...
The burden on all urban systems will only increase, and at an even faster pace than before.
Recall: 25 years ago, there were a little more than 326 thousand inhabitants in the Kazakh capital.
Already in 2016, the city officially became a millionaire.
Forecasts made before the pandemic said that Astana will overcome the threshold of 2 million inhabitants by the middle of the 21st century, but according to recent estimates, the time to achieve such a population has shifted by 2030 (20 years earlier!).
If you do not take systematic and decisive measures to eliminate existing problems and imbalances, as well as do not pay due attention to planning the development of the capital, it is unlikely to make Astana a sustainable and comfortable city for life.
At the same time, it is important to understand that the principles of sustainability in urban planning are not another “fashionable topic ”, but things that are critically important for any state.
Inadequate urban planning (or lack thereof) leads to the emergence of slums and affluent areas, increases inequality, reduces security, and contributes to economic and social development.
All these factors directly affect urban residents, and given the fact that they are becoming more and more, this directly affects the nation and, accordingly, the country as a whole.
The low quality of life forms a negative attitude of people to their habitat (not only the city, but also the country), provokes social nihilism and a decrease in trust in the authorities.
The growth of creative and business activity in such conditions is also quite difficult to talk about.
An analogy can be drawn.
It is unlikely that someone will like to live in an apartment in which half of the rooms have no lighting, in the second half there are no electrical outlets, in the hallway there is no place to leave your shoes removed, a place for rest is not provided in principle, you need to go to the refrigerator through three neighboring corridors, and to the elevator - to the other end of the building.
In which drinking water did not have time to spend, but the bathroom turns into a smelly pond every time someone in the house flushed water in the toilet.
And there is always a chance that you on the balcony will begin work on the construction of another apartment.
Living in a city planned in a similar way is also not much fun.
“The main indicator of the success of megacities, in my opinion, should be the quality of life of their residents, ” President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said at the forum dedicated to the 25th anniversary of Astana.
It is difficult to disagree with this thesis, and it hardly makes sense to explain for a long time why human-centricity in urban studies is so important: cities are people, and how people feel, so will the city.
Space for people
But what exactly is meant when it comes to a “friendly ” urban environment?
Urbanism as a science of urban development planning has existed for more than a century, and during this time, trends in urban planning have changed more than once, influenced by technological progress, digitalization, social trends, global challenges, even ideologies.
Today, perhaps, the key trend is precisely the same sustainability.
In the context of urbanism, this means creating cities that contribute to the preservation of the environment, ensure economic prosperity, a high quality of life and the safety of all residents – for generations to come.
A few years ago, the OECD published a review of urban policy in Kazakhstan, which, among other things, pointed to the existing problems of urbanization.
In particular, there were such as an increase in the level of motorization, the decline of urban public transport, traffic jams; low satisfaction of citizens with housing conditions; outdated public infrastructure; air pollution.
Although measures have been taken in recent years to address these issues, these problems remain very relevant.
At the same time, in the already mentioned SDG No. 11, one of the tasks is to ensure that by 2030 everyone can use safe, inexpensive, affordable and environmentally sustainable transport systems by improving road safety, in particular, expanding the use of public transport.
Actually, one of the important modern trends in urban planning is the creation of an environment that will not require a person to frequently use a personal car.
Now in the cities of Kazakhstan, they prevail as the main means of transportation, which obviously affects the severity of such problems as traffic jams, parking, deterioration of air quality, safety.
To create an environment in which citizens can safely abandon their personal cars, it is necessary on several levels.
First of all, improve the public transport system and make the road infrastructure convenient for pedestrians (even the new and modern Astana cannot boast of this yet).
In addition, the development and improvement of urban areas should go in such a way that everything necessary for a person in everyday life is at a distance of a small walk: shops, kindergartens, schools, medical institutions, recreational areas and so on.
Low satisfaction of citizens with their living conditions, the authors of the OECD survey are mostly associated with the economic inaccessibility of “square meters ” for a significant part of the population, the quality of construction, problems with communal infrastructure.
At the same time, we can safely add such factors as the lack of social infrastructure, point development, lack of public spaces, low accessibility of the urban environment for people with disabilities, even the aesthetic unattractiveness of streets, courtyards and buildings...
All this significantly affects the quality of life of a person in the city.
“Victims ” of point construction, for example, are well aware that it is difficult to enjoy staying in their own apartment, when outside the window for two or three years in a row, seven days a week there is pile driving and other highly noisy construction activity.
And it is still very lucky if during the construction of a new residential complex, the load on the infrastructure of the district was provided, so as not to multiply the sadness associated with the shortage of water, parking spaces, places in kindergartens and schools.
It is very important to understand that high-quality and attractive public spaces are also not part of the “something on the rich ” series.
And this concept includes not only large city parks, squares, but also recreational areas within residential areas and neighborhoods.
Places where people can walk, socialize, relax, engage in physical activity are an integral part of the urban environment, and they should not be the prerogative of elite residential complexes, but a good that is available absolutely for all citizens.
In large cities, such public spaces should be created everywhere, in every microdistrict, because they play a very important function of building up “social capital ” – creating communities of local residents, connections between people, an atmosphere of good neighborliness.
All this creates a favorable environment for increasing civic engagement and people ’ s involvement in solving local problems.
As the territories of cities become more and more, polycentricity and multifunctionality of districts become especially important when planning megacities: their points of attraction, attractions, parks, large shopping and entertainment centers, places for quality leisure and even potential places of employment should be in every district of the city, including its geographical periphery.
The same goes for public transportation.
This approach not only solves the problem of concentration of people in one place (so as not to create an unbearable load on the urban infrastructure), but also contributes to the uniform and balanced development of the entire city, without “distortions ”, when sparkling skyscrapers and elegant squares coexist with crumbling houses and dull sleeping areas with giant budget“ men ”, the marginalization of which, especially on the outskirts It is a matter of time.
Greening and Adapting
In the context of urban studies, special attention is paid to the environmental sustainability of cities.
In particular, we are talking about such areas as reducing emissions, improving energy efficiency, introducing green technologies, protecting biodiversity, improving waste management systems, and landscaping.
On the last and we will stop in more detail.
Competent landscape design, the right approach to gardening in cities can solve a whole set of problems.
So, green spaces (trees, shrubs, lawns, etc.) help in the thermoregulation of cities - a particularly popular quality, given the fact that heat waves are increasingly covering cities.
According to experts of the FAO (Food and Agriculture Programme of the United Nations), the strategic placement of trees in urban areas can lower the air temperature by 2-8 degrees Celsius.
Plus, the shadow of the trees in principle makes the city streets more comfortable for people.
According to the FAO, properly placed trees around a building can reduce air conditioning needs by 30% and reduce energy consumption for heating by 20 – 50%.
Since school, we know that trees absorb CO2 (an adult tree can “eat ” up to 150 kg per year) and bind carbon, playing a role in mitigating climate change.
Green plantations play an important role in air purification: large trees are excellent filters for pollutants and fine particles.
They also regulate watercourses and improve water quality.
In addition, green areas promote water retention and reduce the risk of flooding by absorbing rainwater and slowing down runoff.
Greening cities contributes to the conservation of biodiversity and the creation of more viable ecosystems.
Plants provide shelter and food for various species of animals and insects, which helps maintain ecological balance in cities.
In the context of the concept of “cities for people ”, landscaping in megacities has another very important profit: green spaces contribute to improving the physical health and psychological well-being of citizens.
As experts emphasize, landscaping can and should be included literally in any urban projects, not only creating park areas, but also designing, for example, parking lots, roads, interior spaces and so on.
In 2020, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in his Address, speaking about solving environmental issues, set the task to plant more than 2 billion trees in the forest fund in Kazakhstan and 15 million in settlements by 2025.
At a recent meeting on the development of Astana, the Head of State again raised the issue of landscaping – not only the capital, but also other cities of the country.
At the same time, he emphasized that landscaping should be carried out in accordance with the pace of construction, as well as using a scientific approach and new technologies both in planting and caring for trees.
As already noted, cities occupy less than 5% of the earth ’ s land mass.
But the United Nations estimates that they account for 60-80% of energy consumption, about 75% of the world ’ s carbon emissions, about 60% of all waste on the planet.
All this makes the solution of the issues of improving the environmental sustainability of cities crucial from the point of view of combating climate change and increasing adaptation to it on a global scale.
And the well-known principle of “think globally, act locally ” is very useful here.
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The plants' transpiration and shading effects help buffer temperature fluctuations and improve thermal comfort throughout the day .

In addition to physical health benefits, indoor green walls have been found to positively impact mental health.

Presence of and interaction with living plants indoors have been shown to lower stress levels and reduce anxiety.

Title:

Content: Planting, Watering and Healing: Surprising Health Benefits of Indoor Plants

The grass isn't always greener. Since the early 80's, scientists have studied the biophilia hypothesis – that seeing plants is beneficial to our physical and mental health. With increased urbanization, exacerbated by lockdowns due to a global pandemic, it's becoming harder and harder to ‘go out and get some air.'

The indoor plant market, already spiking in 2019, continues to surge – expected to grow exponentially in the coming years.

A study released by Data Bridge Market Research estimates the indoor plant market will reach $26.23 billion by 2029. The physical and mental health benefits of succulents and other indoor houseplants are important factors.

Many people may be surprised to discover the lesser-known benefits of indoor gardens, but experienced horticulturalists and gardeners have been advocating for the expansion of home gardens for decades.

Stress and Anxiety Reduction

The addition of real or artificial indoor plants has become a standard practice in many offices, hospitals, schools, and other institutions. According to researchers, just seeing a living plant in the otherwise sterile hospital waiting room environment has been shown to reduce stress levels.

In another study, subjects were asked to repot a living plant or complete a computer-generated task. Those who handled the plants reported feeling more at ease and also experienced lower blood pressure. Participants who performed the computer-based task reported higher levels of anxiety and elevated blood pressure.

Maria Failla, Garden Expert and host of the Growing Joy with Plants podcast, shares, “When I was struggling with depression, it was helpful for me to keep plants indoors that helped me get out of my head and drop into the present. I'd see how many senses I could engage while taking 3 mindful breaths alongside my plants. Scented plants like herbs and geraniums are amazing for this. I love the rose-scented geranium for its romantic scent and the fuzzy leaves I could rub, pinch and take deep inhales with.”

Speed Up The Healing Process

A number of indoor houseplants, such as snake plants, orchids, and spider plants, have natural air purification qualities. Others improve a room’s humidity level or deliver a soothing fragrance. Microgreens also provide essential nutrients, making them ideal for patients in recovery.

Even seeing an indoor houseplant can improve a recovering patient’s mental and emotional state. One study concluded that installing indoor gardens in hospital rooms and public areas positively impacted overall recovery times and patient satisfaction.

Improve Mood During Isolation

The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent household quarantines created a spike in indoor plant sales as many consumers discovered the natural air purification benefits of succulents and other plant species. Indoor gardening also provided isolated households with an activity that could be performed safely while under quarantine.

A study conducted in Bulgaria concluded that participants who maintained a home garden or raised houseplants had fewer incidents of anxiety or depression during enforced lockdowns than others who did not invest in plants or other greenery.

Cassidy Tuttle, gardening expert and owner of Succulents and Sunshine, observes, “Succulents are great plants for people who have depression. They don't require as much work as other plants, so they can tolerate the ups and downs that frequently come with depression. They stay looking healthy even if they're not watered regularly. Haworthiopsis fasciata, Zebra Plant, is an especially good option for indoor plants because it doesn't require a lot of light or water.”

Best Entry-Level Houseplants For Starting Indoor Gardens

Annie Schreck, Research Director at Mountain Crest Gardens, offers some insights and recommendations for beginners. “At Mountain Crest Gardens, we hear back from customers all the time that filling their homes and offices with succulents brightens their mood every day. The studies I have seen in this realm indicate that having plants around can correlate with improved student performance in classrooms and reductions in stress and sick days in workplaces. I certainly hope more researchers investigate these complex human-plant interactions.

Schreck adds, “There’s something about having other living creatures in a room that makes it feel cozy and inviting. Caring for them and seeing them respond is just so rewarding. And the great thing is, everyone gets to explore which varieties lift their mood the most! If you’re not sure where to start, I’d recommend indoor succulents like Haworthia, Jade plants, and Gasteria.”

Snake Plants

Snake plants (Sansevieria trifasciata)—also known as mother-in-law’s tongue— are thick-leaved succulents prized for their resilience and tolerance for drought. They grow well under low-light conditions, which makes them ideal for indoor gardens and room decor.

One major health benefit of snake plants is natural air purification. This goes beyond the standard absorption of carbon dioxide, however. Snake plants also remove and filter toxic gases such as benzene, xylene, and formaldehyde. They are also said to reduce headaches, improve respiration, and reduce eye irritations.

Microgreens

Microgreens such as broccoli, cabbage, and kale offer a wide range of health benefits, and their compact size makes them ideal for indoor gardens, especially hydroponics. Microgreens and fresh herbs provide home gardeners with flavorful aromatics and salad ingredients.

Among the many health benefits associated with microgreens are blood sugar regulation, vision protection, body weight reduction, and protection from anemia. Growing microgreens is also a highly recommended activity for those recovering from substance abuse since the plants provide the nutrition many addicts lack.

Orchids

While some orchid varieties have earned a reputation for being a challenge to grow, there are many varieties that require only minimal to moderate care. Besides their exceptional qualities as flowering plants, orchids are also natural air purifiers and oxygen generators. As part of a floral arrangement or as individual blooms, orchids have been shown in studies to reduce stress and improve mood.

Orchids are also recommended for people with sleep issues since the plant’s significant oxygen generation and aesthetic qualities both help create more soothing conditions at bedtime and during overnight hours.

Spider Plants

Spider plants have become popular houseplants for first-time home gardeners because of their child and pet-friendliness, ease of propagation, and exceptional air-purifying qualities. Beginning gardeners only need a small cutting from an existing spider plant to start their own projects.

The trailing leaves of a spider plant make it ideal for hanging baskets, a popular growing technique for limited spaces. The plant also raises the room’s humidity level, which helps address respiratory issues triggered by dry air conditions.

Peperomia Plants

 Because of their ability to thrive in drafty, dark, and humid locations in the home, peperomia plants are often referred to as “radiator plants”.  Peperomia plants are succulents, which means they are naturally resilient to abuse and require minimal maintenance.

Tinctures and other products derived from peperomia plants are used to address a range of medical ailments, including headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, and kidney issues. The plant also has antifungal and antioxidant properties.

Jade Plants

Another popular succulent for indoor gardens is the ornamental and medicinal jade plant. The jade plant’s distinctive round leaves have become associated symbolically with the acquisition of money and wealth. The jade plant’s appeal goes beyond the ornamental, however.

Products derived from the juice of the jade plant have been used in many cultures for the treatment of ailments including diabetes, skin wounds, digestive issues, and warts. In traditional Chinese culture, the presence of a jade plant also improves the flow of chi, or life force.

This article was produced by Media Decision and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.

Psychological studies demonstrate that viewing and caring for indoor plants can decrease blood pressure, improve mood, and alleviate symptoms of depression.

These effects are especially significant in situations of isolation, such as during lockdowns, where indoor greenery provides a calming and restorative environment.

The enhanced sense of well-being associated with green walls contributes to a healthier, more comfortable living atmosphere .

Regarding maintenance, vertical gardens come with specific care requirements that homeowners should consider before installation.

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Content: Jump directly to the content
GREEN QUEEN

I’m a gardening expert – five garden features that could knock thousands off your home’s value and how to avoid it

WITH the days getting warmer and summer just around the corner, green-fingered enthusiasts will be busy tending to their gardens.

But if you’re not careful, adding certain features to your outside space can knock hundreds, or even thousands, off the value of your home.

The key is to give some careful thought to your garden and what you keep in it, as it could potentially make or break a property sale either now – or at some point in the future.

We spoke to Fiona Jenkins from MyJobQuote what garden features could devalue your home.

She told The Sun: “A well thought out and kept garden with beautiful plants can be a real asset.

"However, the presence of certain plants and other bits and pieces could be really off-putting to potential buyers. Don’t ruin your summer by destroying your home’s value.”

Here we take a closer look at some of the features which could result in a significant price reduction.

Japanese Knotweed

House price down by £20,000 to £50,000

Mere mention of this invasive plant can send shivers down the spine of a homeowner, and especially anyone looking to sell.

Japanese Knotweed spreads quickly and is notoriously difficult to eradicate. One of the big issues is the creeping underground roots. These can weaken foundations and destroy pipework, making it very dangerous to have close to your home.

Fiona said: “It can take treatment over several years to fully eradicate it, so it’s no wonder having it can reduce the value of your home by between 5 and 15 per cent.”

If you suspect there’s knotweed in your garden, you need to call in an expert to get it treated and removed.

This does not come cheap. Professional treatment with herbicide could set you back around £1,750, and if full excavation and removal is needed, the cost could easily rise to around £6,500 – and possibly a lot more.

Fiona added: “If knotweed has spread from a neighbouring property, they are legally obliged to deal with it. But keeping your garden tidy will help you spot problems like this before they become unmanageable.”

On a more positive note, while knotweed has gained a reputation for scuppering borrowers’ chances of getting a mortgage, lenders are now taking a less black and white view.

Provided the infestation is professionally treated with an insurance-backed guarantee, affected properties can now be bought and sold.

Giant Hogweed

House price down by £15,000

This invasive plant, often found near ponds, can be recognised by its thick purple-spotted stems and white umbrella-shaped flowers. But while it may look harmless, its sap is phototoxic.

Fiona said: “This means it can cause severe burns to the skin in sunlight.”

Even though the plant doesn’t cause any damage to your property, the cost of removing it can soon mount up.

“You could find yourself having to fork out around £15,000 to get rid of it,” warned the gardening whizz.

“With this in mind, the presence of this plant in your garden could lead to buyers trying to seek a lower price for the property.”

A messy garden

House price down by £2,000

If your outside space has become overgrown, or if parts of it are dead, this can very quickly make your home look cheap.

Fiona said: “Irrespective of how beautiful your property is, if the garden isn’t up to scratch, it’s going to have an impact on the overall appearance of your home. You need to keep your lawn looking neat and tidy.”

The key is to ensure your garden fits in well with the style of your property.

Fiona added: “If, for example, your home’s exterior is quite traditional, choose classic plants and opt for formal pruning.

"If your home is a more contemporary style, go for a more minimalistic approach.”

Old sheds and garages

House price down by £28,000

While sheds and garages can be a great place to store stuff, over time, they can get weathered and worn.

“Buyers, and especially those with young families, value usable garden space,” said Fiona.

“Dilapidated sheds and garages are ugly, and take up space that can be better used for plants and lawns.”

There’s also a risk that old garages can contain asbestos, while rickety structures can be hazardous in gardens where children are playing.

“That’s why these buildings can reduce the value of your home by up to 10 per cent,” said the garden supremo.

“The best move is to get old sheds and garages taken down.”

If you suspect any structure contains asbestos, use a specialist company to do it.

Fiona added: “You may need to take up the concrete base to create some usable space. But if the budget is tight, you could cover it with decking to make a seating area instead.”

An old or broken driveway

House price down by £14,000

First impressions go a long way, so if the driveway leading up to your home is old, broken or particularly dirty, this could make your home look cheap, and could destroy some of your property’s value.

“If you want to improve the appearance of your driveway, you could start by cleaning it and filling in any cracks,” said Fiona.

Pressure washing is one of the best ways to clean it.”

This can really improve the appearance of your home, and may help you get a higher price when you come to sell.

Here are some further features which could be a turn-off to potential buyers – and could detract from the value of your home:

English ivy

Ivy on the outside of your home may look quite attractive, but once the plant starts taking over, it can end up appearing rather messy. It can also be damaging.

It can attack the walls of your property, making its way through cracks and penetrating the mortar. This can lead to some serious problems with damp, and could cause some hefty leaks.

The good news is, roots can be killed or removed relatively easily as a DIY job. You can peel it away by hand, but always remember to wear gloves to avoid irritation.

Artificial grass

If you’ve got young children, having fake grass can be a godsend as there’s no mud to worry about, plus the grass is always green.

But this is one of the most off-putting property trends, according to Halifax.

You need to think very carefully before digging up the turf or paving over any greenery, as this remains a big ‘no-no’ for many people.

Swimming pools and hot tubs

While fancy garden features, such as a swimming pool or hot tub can seem luxurious, the fact that they can be expensive to maintain can be a turn-off for potential buyers.

Some will also worry about outdoor water installations being dangerous for children.

According to Webuyanyhouse.co.uk, having a swimming pool could potentially knock £16,000 off the value of your property.

So think carefully before splashing out.

Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk

Topics

Challenges include ensuring adequate light exposure, regulating temperature, preventing pests, and managing watering schedules.

Since vertical gardens use a limited amount of space, it is essential to optimize conditions for the plants selected.

Light availability can be addressed by positioning the green wall near windows or supplementing natural light with grow lights suitable for indoor plants.

Temperature control indoors is necessary to replicate the preferred environment for chosen plants, particularly in climates that undergo seasonal changes.

Watering needs vary by plant species but generally require learning about moisture requirements and establishing a reliable irrigation method, which can range from manual watering to automated drip systems.

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Content: ContributorsPublishersAdvertisers

35 Easiest Houseplants To Care For

24/7 Wall St.
 7 days ago

Perhaps you’re an aspiring indoor gardener - or one who’s tried to nurture houseplants but killed dozens in the past, despite your best efforts. In either case, don’t fear. Raising healthy, vibrant houseplants doesn’t have to be a mystery - and with the right plant, it may only require a few minutes of your time each month.

The key to successful indoor gardening is choosing a plant that can survive in the lighting conditions of your home, and then learning its watering requirements.

To compile a list of  the 35 easiest houseplants to care for, 24/7 Tempo consulted numerous gardening sites and encyclopedia articles, paying particular attention to the basic lighting and watering needs of each plant.

Some plants require bright, direct sunlight for at least six to eight hours per day and will not thrive in a dark room no matter what. These plants will most likely need to be placed near a window with southern exposure. Other plants will suffer from direct sunlight, and should be kept away from windows. Once you’ve determined the lighting conditions of your home, you’re halfway there.

The next step is proper watering. Virtually no houseplant wants soggy roots, so be sure to pick a pot with drainage holes in the bottom. Additionally, the soil in the pot may hold too much moisture - which will cause a plant’s roots to rot - so pick the right soil for the plant. Succulents and other drought tolerant species will thrive in a sandy, cactus soil blend.

The key to watering any houseplant is to avoid overwatering. Pour in just enough water so that it begins to run out of the bottom of the pot. In general, plants either need consistent water (meaning never let the soil dry out), moderate water (meaning only water once the top inch of soil is dry), or are drought tolerant and prefer only to be watered once their soil is halfway or mostly dried out. If you tend to be forgetful, be sure to choose a drought tolerant variety.

Most indoor plants go through a dormant period in the winter, when they need much less water, so a good rule of thumb is to cut waterings in half in the cooler months. Other factors that can affect plant health are temperature and humidity. The plants we chose can generally thrive in average house temperatures and humidity.

Click here to see the 35 easiest houseplants to care for

Certain tropical plants that need very high humidity were eliminated from our list, as it can be difficult to maintain a humid environment indoors. (And we certainly don’t recommend that you try growing any of these - 35 of the weirdest plants on earth.)

We also eliminated air plants. Anyone who tells you that air plants are easy to care for is probably trying to sell you an air plant.

If you’re just beginning to raise houseplants, start slow, with one or two plants and learn their needs before acquiring more. Some plants can be toxic if ingested, so be sure to do research if you have a young child or a pet. (Here are the most common reasons people take their dog to the vet.)

Aloe
>Latin Name: Aloe vera
>Light Conditions: bright indirect light
>Watering Needs: drought tolerant

This attractive, spiky succulent - whose gel and latex are used to make a variety of topical medications - is popular for another reason: It's incredibly resilient and low-maintenance. It can grow for years in the same container without needing repotting, and prefers to dry out between scant waterings.

Amagris
>Latin Name: Ctenanthe burle-marxii 'Amagris'
>Light Conditions: medium to bright indirect light
>Watering Needs: moderate

The Amagris variety of the fishbone prayer plant is not to be confused with the prayer plant (Maranta leuconeura), which is a complicated beauty that needs attentive care and high humidity. Amagris is a great substitute, as its delicate herringbone stripes and purple undersides are a handsome addition to any collection, and it can handle most lighting situations. Its leaves will indicate when it is getting too dry, as they curl slightly inward.

ALSO READ: 50 Best Cities for Urban Gardening

Angel wing begonia
>Latin Name: Begonia x coralline
>Light Conditions: low to bright indirect light
>Watering Needs: consistent

The most upright of the indoor begonias, angel wings are robust growers and can thrive without the high humidity needed by Rex begonias. Because of their vigorous cane growth - which can reach six feet tall in some varieties - they may require consistent pruning or stabilization.

Arrowhead vine
>Latin Name: Syngonium podophyllum
>Light Conditions: low to medium light
>Watering Needs: consistent

Arrowhead vines are notable for their tolerance of low lighting conditions, and can even thrive in artificial light. Their intricately variegated, arrow-shaped leaves will retain their color no matter how little light they get; just don't place them in direct sunlight.

Baby rubber plant
>Latin Name: Peperomia obtusifolia
>Light Conditions: low to bright indirect light
>Watering Needs: moderate/drought tolerant

There are a wide variety of colorful and attractive houseplants in the Peperomia genus. The baby rubber plant is one of the easiest Peperomias to care for, as this succulent variety stores water in its glossy leaves, making it relatively drought tolerant. Native to tropical areas as an understory plant, it can handle low lighting conditions.

Beefsteak begonia
>Latin Name: Begonia erythrophylla
>Light Conditions: medium to bright indirect light
>Watering Needs: consistent

The easiest of all indoor begonias, this wax variety has shiny, dark green leaves with contrasting veins and iridescent burgundy undersides. Beefsteaks grow quickly and heartily in the right conditions. They are simple to propagate and a smart choice for novice indoor gardeners, as they are hard to kill. Fans of frequent watering and humidity, their leaves will start to droop if they're drying out, but will bounce back up after being watered.

Burro's tail
>Latin Name: Sedum morganianum
>Light Conditions: medium to bright light
>Watering Needs: drought tolerant

This trailing succulent loves bright direct light and is a top choice for hanging window baskets and high shelves, where its branches can drape down freely and out of the way. The key to a successful burro's tail is to handle it as little as possible, as its leaves have a tendency to fall when jostled.

ALSO READ: Most Beautiful Botanical Gardens in the World

Cast iron plant
>Latin Name: Aspidistra elatior
>Light Conditions: low light
>Watering Needs: moderate

This nearly indestructible plant can handle low light, low humidity, and temperatures down to 50 degrees, which makes it great for offices as well as dark corners. It prefers to be underwatered rather than overwatered, and its green leaves stay deeply colored as long as it is never placed in direct sunlight. Although the cast iron plant can reach one to two feet high, it is a slow grower, so start with a large plant rather than a cutting.

Chinese evergreen
>Latin Name: Aglaonema commutatum
>Light Conditions: low to medium light
>Watering Needs: moderate

The deeply variegated, lance-shaped leaves of the Chinese evergreen can range from dark green to seafoam to frosty silver. These hardy plants will tolerate low light, low humidity, and drought, although higher temperatures and humidity will keep them happier. When they become overgrown, trimmed leaves can be easily rooted in water to start new plants.

Chinese money plant
>Latin Name: Pilea Peperomioides
>Light Conditions: low to bright indirect light
>Watering Needs: moderate

This compact cutie is native to southern China and grows along the foothills of the Himalayas, but has been popular in Scandinavia since it was brought there by a missionary. It prefers indirect light and weekly waterings with time to dry out in between. This Pilea often produces shoots which are easy to cut off and root in water or soil to start new plants.

Christmas cactus
>Latin Name: Schlumbergera x buckleyi
>Light Conditions: medium to bright indirect light
>Watering Needs: drought tolerant

This tropical cactus is known for flowering in December, with blooms that can come in shades of white, peach, fuschia, red, or purple, depending on the variety. It makes a great hanging basket or windowsill plant, where its long branches have room to drape. While Christmas cacti need more consistent watering than desert cacti, they still prefer for their soil to dry out between waterings.

Dragon tree
>Latin Name: Dracaena marginata
>Light Conditions: medium to bright indirect light
>Watering Needs: drought tolerant

With tall, skinny trunks and leaves edged in red, dragon trees are ideal for adding interest and depth to plant arrangements. They also stand alone well in corners and behind sofas, as they can reach a height of as much as seven feet. Low maintenance and drought tolerant, dragon trees don't require regular fertilization. They do prefer warm, humid environments but can survive in a variety of settings.

ALSO READ: 30 Easy Ways to Be More Environmentally Friendly

Dumbcane
>Latin Name: Dieffenbachia amoena
>Light Conditions: low to medium light
>Watering Needs: consistent

This lush, tropical houseplant can grow from one to six feet high and can handle lower light and artificial light conditions. It gets its name from its poisonous sap, which can cause tongue swelling and temporary speechlessness if ingested. Dumbcane likes consistently wet, but not soggy, soil.

English ivy
>Latin Name: Hedera helix
>Light Conditions: medium to bright light
>Watering Needs: consistent

The key to growing this trailing vine is simply light. Ivy needs medium or bright light to thrive, and to keep its leaves bright and vibrant. It is perfect for sunny window sills and hanging baskets, and its long tendrils can be trained around windows or pruned to maintain a bushier shape.

Flamingo flower
>Latin Name: Anthurium andraeanum
>Light Conditions: medium to bright indirect light
>Watering Needs: moderate

Also known as laceleaf or painter's palette, the flamingo flower plant has extremely long lasting red flowers, while hybrid varieties can bear blooms in pink, white, purple, and green. A great air purifier, this plant is known to remove ammonia and formaldehyde from indoor spaces.

Golden pothos
>Latin Name: Epipremnum aureum
>Light Conditions: any light
>Watering Needs: moderate/drought tolerant

Nearly impossible to kill, golden pothos, or Devil's ivy, can survive in extremely low light conditions and is drought tolerant. It will, however, thrive with more frequent waterings and will drop its oldest leaves if underwatered. A quick-growing vine, pothos is ideal for training over doorways or along bookshelves.

Heartleaf philodendron
>Latin Name: Philodendron hederaceum
>Light Conditions: low to bright indirect light
>Watering Needs: moderate

This low maintenance vining plant adapts well to low light conditions and loves humidity, making it a great choice for bathrooms. The more indirect light it receives, however, the faster it will grow. It can be trained to climb up a trellis or allowed to cascade down over shelves or from hanging baskets.

ALSO READ: 35 of the Weirdest Plants on Earth

Inch plant
>Latin Name: Tradescantia zebrina
>Light Conditions: medium to bright light
>Watering Needs: moderate

Also known as spiderwort, this vigorous vining plant has silver and green variegated leaves with deep purple undersides. Well suited for windows, spiderwort needs bright light to maintain its color, and moderate watering to stay full and bushy. When treated right, it will grow quickly and need occasional pruning. Luckily, the cuttings root easily in water and are perfect for sharing with friends.

Jade plant
>Latin Name: Crassula ovata
>Light Conditions: medium to bright light
>Watering Needs: moderate

Popular for their ease of care, jade plants need only a sunny room and the right amount of water to stay happy. While soggy soil will rot their roots, extended dry conditions will harm the leaves. Allow their soil to dry out about halfway before rewatering, and they will stay plump and verdant.

Lucky bamboo
>Latin Name: Dracaena sanderiana
>Light Conditions: medium to bright indirect light
>Watering Needs: consistent

Not actually related to bamboo, this cane plant, native to Africa, is in the asparagus family. It can grow in water without soil and is commonly grown in clear glass containers with or without pebbles in the bottom. Use filtered or distilled water to keep the leaves from browning, and clean the container once a week, refilling it with fresh water to keep algae at bay.

Parlor palm
>Latin Name: Chamaedorea elegans
>Light Conditions: low to medium light
>Watering Needs: moderate

This popular, stand-alone house plant has been cultivated since the Victorian era. It thrives in indirect light and is able to survive in lower light conditions than most palms. Parlor palms only need repotting every two to three years, and can reach heights of 10 to 12 feet.

Peace lily
>Latin Name: Spathiphyllum wallisii
>Light Conditions: low to bright indirect light
>Watering Needs: moderate/drought tolerant

Tolerant of low humidity and low light, the peace lily is an exceptionally easy indoor plant to care for. Peace lilies prefer to be underwatered, so rather than watering on a schedule, check on them once a week and only water if the top of the soil feels dry. The leaves will also droop if the plant is getting too dry, but will perk up after a watering. In order to generate blooms, ensure that the plant is in a bright room.

ALSO READ: US Cities With the Most Dog Parks

Purple shamrock
>Latin Name: Oxalis triangularis
>Light Conditions: medium to bright light
>Watering Needs: consistent

This dramatic and lively plant features variegated purple leaves on tender stems that grow from bulbs. The three-lobed leaves open wide during the day and close up at night. Although the leaves may wilt and die back if the plant dries out, the bulbs will sprout new leaves to replace them, making oxalis a particularly forgiving plant for inexperienced owners.

Rubber tree
>Latin Name: Ficus elastica
>Light Conditions: medium to bright light
>Watering Needs: moderate

Rubber trees aren't fussy but they do need medium or bright indirect light, and may grow spindly and leggy in low light rooms. With large, waxy leaves in deep shades of green and red, these showy plants are hearty growers and can reach the ceiling if not pruned. To keep the leaves glossy, wipe them down with a wet cloth if you notice dust accumulating.

Silver dollar vine
>Latin Name: Xerosicyos danguyi
>Light Conditions: medium to bright light
>Watering Needs: drought tolerant

This climbing succulent shrub is a native desert plant and loves bright, direct light. Placing it on a sunny patio in the summer is a great way to keep it healthy and growing. Giving it a trellis or support to climb on will encourage its upward growth, but it will also grow well in a hanging basket.

Snake plant
>Latin Name: Dracaena trifasciata
>Light Conditions: any light
>Watering Needs: drought tolerant

One of the most popular plants in homes, offices, and businesses, snake plants are virtually indestructible. They can thrive in bright light as well as in dark corners, and appreciate very scant watering. With upright, lance-shaped leaves in shades of green, yellow, and white, these hardy house plants can grow up to four feet high.

Spider plant
>Latin Name: Chlorophytum comosum
>Light Conditions: low to bright indirect light
>Watering Needs: moderate

These prolific growers are especially suited for hanging baskets, where their "babies'' will have space to trail down around the pot. Considered incredibly adaptable, spider plants can live in a wide range of conditions with few problems, and enjoy cooler temperatures. Their offshoots are easy to propagate into new plants.

ALSO READ: 50 Best Cities for Urban Gardening

String of pearls
>Latin Name: Senecio rowleyanus
>Light Conditions: medium to bright light
>Watering Needs: drought tolerant

This unusual succulent is a vigorous grower, with long stems that cascade down around the pot. Although it may need pruning once in a while to keep the stems attractive, this drought tolerant beauty rarely needs to be repotted, and even produces clusters of white flowers with colorful stamens.

Swedish ivy
>Latin Name: Plectranthus verticillatus
>Light Conditions: medium light
>Watering Needs: consistent

Despite its name, Swedish ivy is native to southern Africa and is not a true ivy. Its vining branches are well suited for cascading down from hanging baskets, and will need periodic pruning. Although primarily grown for its scalloped foliage, Swedish ivy will bloom once a year with small, attractive clusters of white to mauve blossoms.

Swiss cheese plant
>Latin Name: Monstera deliciosa
>Light Conditions: medium to bright indirect light
>Watering Needs: moderate

Monsteras are sought after for their large, iconic split leaves. Although these tropical plants prefer bright light and warm, humid conditions, they can tolerate low light situations. They are natural climbers, and will grow upright if given stakes or supports to climb, often developing large aerial roots that act as extra supports.

Umbrella tree
>Latin Name: Schefflera actinophylla
>Light Conditions: medium to bright indirect light
>Watering Needs: moderate

Reaching heights of eight to 10 feet indoors, umbrella trees are suitable for large, bright rooms with high ceilings. Their leaves form radial clusters and are usually solid green, although variegated varieties exist. Although they don't like soggy soil, they do prefer humidity. Place an umbrella tree pot on a tray of rocks with water in it to keep the air around the plant moist.

Velvet plant
>Latin Name: Gynura aurantiaca
>Light Conditions: medium to bright indirect light
>Watering Needs: consistent

Also known as the purple passion plant, this unusual house plant has bright purple hairs over its serrated green leaves. Problems with the plant often stem from water issues. To prevent root rot, let about a quarter of the soil dry before rewatering. Avoid getting water on the foliage, as it can become trapped in the hairs and cause the leaves to rot.

ALSO READ: Most Beautiful Botanical Gardens in the World

Wax plant
>Latin Name: Hoya carnosa
>Light Conditions: medium to bright light
>Watering Needs: drought tolerant

Also known as hoyas or porcelain flowers, these hardy vines feature thick, shiny foliage and will occasionally produce fragrant blooms. They can live for decades if treated well and will snake around an entire room if given wall supports or trellises. Hoyas prefer drier soil but high humidity and take well to occasional misting.

Weeping fig
>Latin Name: Ficus benjamina
>Light Conditions: medium to bright indirect light
>Watering Needs: drought tolerant

Weeping figs are incredibly easy to care for as long as you follow one rule: after you've placed your ficus in an ideally bright location, never move it again. Weeping figs are very sensitive to changes in their environment and may drop their leaves if they are moved. These trees will stay green and healthy with occasional waterings and warm rooms that are free of drafts.

Zanzibar gem
>Latin Name: Zamioculcas zamiifolia
>Light Conditions: any indirect light
>Watering Needs: drought tolerant

Thriving in most light settings except for direct sunlight, Zanzibar gems, or z-z plants, are a forgetful gardener's dream. They are incredibly low maintenance and drought tolerant, only needing water if their soil has completely dried out - possibly as infrequently as once a month. Occasional dusting with a wet rag will keep their waxy leaves shiny.

Pest control should focus on organic or non-toxic methods to preserve indoor air quality and avoid harmful chemicals.

These maintenance aspects, especially balancing light and watering needs and managing pests, can become complex without professional assistance and may pose difficulties for inexperienced gardeners .

While home vertical gardens can be maintained with regular attention by homeowners, some complexity and time investment exist, and professional advice or assistance can be valuable during design and upkeep phases .

Cost considerations for vertical garden installation and maintenance vary widely depending on scale, design complexity, plant selection, and whether professional services are used.

Title:

Content: 10 Great Ways to Spend a Little Money on a Garden
Yungshun Lee
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We always think that having a beautiful garden costs a lot of money, and this is often why we give up building our own garden.
But this idea book will tell you that building a garden doesn ’ t need to cost a lot of money, but more importantly, how much you want to achieve it and how much you are willing to spend to care for it.
Here will give you 10 tips to use these 10 simple ideas to make the garden more perfect and brilliant without spending a lot of money.
1. Clean the lawn and add new vegetation
We start with the simplest thing, first we must take care of what we have. If the garden is full of weeds, then it is time to clean and mow the lawn; if you want to make it more lively, adding new vegetation is a good way, we can add some small shrubs or small trees, or even potted plants, are a good way.
2. Zen Garden
A garden full of Zen is a very fashionable design in recent years, it is a garden that can quickly make the surrounding feel quiet, and this design can be fast, simple and economical, we just need to put some stones, simple plants and small fountains, and this design is also more convenient to maintain.
3. Indoor Garden
Some people also like to do the interior garden design, usually this way requires the use of high ceiling space, it can be created in the two floors connected stairs, can also use the fireplace, such space use will make the space feel fresh.
4. Comfortable corners
These types of corners can be built either indoors or outdoors. Plants placed vertically, like a garden standing on a wall, give people infinite warmth.
Just adding a few nice chairs or furniture, whether inside the house or outside, will make people feel relaxed and comfortable.
5. Corner of the room
Who said that the garden must be designed in the front yard or back yard of the house, in fact, using the space between the building and the surrounding wall, we can also design a chic garden, without any turf or plant drapes, alternately using green leafy plants and gravel and stone can be.
The Importance of Lighting
Light is important in any garden, and if the light disappears in your night, it may be time to add artificial lighting so that you can feel the different night colors of the garden when the sun goes down.
7. Little Orchard
Who said that the garden can only grow flowers, the cultivation of fruit trees can even become a source of food for part of our daily life, and further planting of spices or vegetables, it is more able to take care of the problems of economy and storage space.
8. Colorful plants
Let the plants of different colors fill the space of the garden, let the colorful living space of the garden, according to your place of residence, choose the right plants, with color to change the scene of the garden!
9. Simple appearance
If you do not have a garden but want to add some vegetation to your house, you can also choose to add a few plants to the wall area, the clean and refreshing appearance can be a great little garden.
10. Front yard garden
The front yard garden should not be forgotten, remember, this is the first picture we and our guests see when we go home, it takes the first impression of the building and the owner, it doesn ’ t cost a lot of money, but it can have great results by taking the time to take good care of it.
Want more inspiration: Courtyard and Terrace: 12 super creative ideas that inspire you!
Do you need someone to help you design or build your home?
Find a professional now!
Find out more about home design!

Small-scale or DIY vertical gardens can be quite cost-effective, achieved through strategies such as introducing potted plants in vertical racks or repurposing existing spaces with minimal additions.

Creating simple indoor green spaces, such as Zen gardens incorporating mosses, ferns, or small shrubs, can also enhance aesthetic appeal affordably.

This approach typically requires a lower budget and is accessible to many homeowners interested in hands-on gardening .

Title:

Content: How your garden can increase the value of your home

Demand for outdoor space has soared among buyers since the pandemic, meaning homes with a garden command a higher price than ever before

Forget the kitchen extension or loft conversion. The quickest and cheapest way to add value to your house is to spruce up your garden. A “lifestyle” garden is top of buyers’ wish list this summer, with estate agents estimating that buyers are prepared to pay a 5 to 25 per cent premium for a garden they can use all year round. Research by Post Office Money suggests it could be as much as 77 per cent.

Given that the average garden can be professionally landscaped for around £2,750, even if you take these figures at their most modest level, a house worth £750,000 could see a minimum uplift of around £35,000, rising to more than £185,000 for a 25 per cent premium (and more than £400,000 if you believe the Post Office). Money well spent, therefore – particularly as you get to enjoy it before you sell up.

“I don’t understand people who invest heavily in the interior of their property and neglect the exterior when a gorgeous garden makes even the most ordinary house look and feel more desirable,” says Joanna Cocking of Hamptons. “Those that don’t have a garden desperately want one – they’re more of a selling point than ever.”

Britain’s garden gold rush began during the pandemic, Cocking says, when we were confined to our homes and realised the wellbeing benefits of outside space. “Historically, sellers have always underplayed their gardens due to Britain’s unreliable weather and buyers have tended to regard them in practical terms: how much will they cost to maintain? How much time will I have to spend in it? Yet now we’re so much more emotional about them,” she says.

“During lockdown we fell in love with working, entertaining and exercising in fresh air. We want to cook pizzas, listen to music, play pétanque, do our workouts – gardens are places of fun.”

First impressions

Kerb appeal is real, agrees garden designer Butter Wakefield. “Even if you have a tiny front path, make sure there is some good structural planting: you only need a few hydrangeas or foxgloves to make a wonderful first impression,” she says.

Marc Schneiderman of Arlington Residential believes that, in London, the price difference between a garden thick with brambles and an attractive one is 5-10 per cent; in the country this premium rises up to 25 per cent, according to Lindsay Cuthill of Savills.

“Outside space is one of the main reasons you live in the country, so the garden is a major consideration,” he says. Yet don’t go so crazy at the garden centre that you create a monster, warns Nick Cunningham, a property search agent with Stacks. In his experience, endless borders can scare buyers away.

“The trend is towards lower maintenance and less formal gardens with plenty of fun,” he says. “I have one client who is moving from a house with formal gardens to one surrounded by zero-maintenance wild moorland.”

If you transform your garden into a relaxation zone rather than a floral display, however, you can’t go wrong, says Cocking. “Ask yourself, ‘What will make me feel like I’m on holiday?’” she says. “You want it to feel like you’ve gone to Soho Farmhouse for the weekend.”

How to bring the best out of any garden

Urban family garden

A shed of one’s own

Buy the biggest you can: research by Mytoolshed.co.uk suggests that a shed can add an instant £12,000 to the value of a house. For inspiration see malverngardenbuildings.co.uk.

The Astro debate

Children want a football goal or netball hoop, which is why a swathe of Astro can be a major selling point for families, says Schneiderman. Wakefield, however, would always put down gravel or paving in preference, as Astro kills the soil and ecosystems beneath it.

A cooling off zone

The larger your lawn (or Astro), the more space you’ll have for the paddling pool when it’s hot. Rather than investing in a new plastic inflatable each summer, consider making a permanent feature by investing in a metal dip tank, which can be heated and filtered.

A private playground

A sad-looking trampoline or a frayed garden swing does nothing for house prices, but state-of-the-art play equipment wins families over. Natural wood climbing frames look most attractive, Wakefield says, and can be blended into the surroundings with planting.

A barbecue area

Before forking out on accessories such as pizza ovens and Green Egg barbecues, invest in the dining space itself, says Robin Chatwin of Savills, with soft planting, classy paving and some shade. Wakefield suggests siting the main entertaining space at the end of the garden as it’s more private and you won’t smoke out your neighbours.

Working (or working out)

Set up a couple of chairs and a small table in the shade for al fresco conference calls, Chatwin says; if you’re being really professional, you’ll invest in a power socket with internet booster, too. Meanwhile, purpose-built garden offices and gyms can add 5-10 per cent to the value of a £1.2 million family home, Chatwin continues.

Stately mansion

An outdoor kitchen

For the full staycation experience, create an outdoor kitchen with a wood-fired grill and Australian-style bars and fridges. If you want it to be tasteful as well as tough, buy it from Gaze Burvill (gazeburvill.com), Wakefield says.

A monumental sculpture

Install a vast sculpture – or a whole sculpture trail. Stately home owners are competing to commission vast works by artists such as Nic Fiddian-Green and David Williams-Ellis that frame the landscape and add grandeur to the garden.

Professional facilities

A mossy tennis court is unacceptable, says Cocking; it should be cushioned acrylic, polymeric rubber or synthetic grass. The pool will be long enough for serious exercise with easy access to a pool house with kitchen and spa.

Trendy planting

Mansion buyers want orchards, kitchen gardens and wildflower meadows, says Cuthill. “They love the idea of eating their own produce and supporting the environment.”

A tree house

An ultra-luxe adult tree house, doubling up as a home office and bar, from High Life or Blue Forest will cost between £20,000 and £100,000 but it’ll push up the value of your house by more than that, says Cunningham.

Rambling country garden

A den or playground

A rope swing; a zip wire; a wooden climbing frame – a family with young children will pay more for a house with a well-constructed, imaginative play area, says Cunningham.

All-day party area

In the countryside, the entertaining area has even more significance, Cunningham continues. Big fire amenities such as Argentinian asados and brick-built pizza ovens will capture the imagination of wannabe revellers, along with outdoor sofas, speakers, twinkling lights and awnings.

Hidden rooms

Buyers love to be surprised when they’re looking round a garden, Wakefield says: think wisteria-covered walkways leading to sunken gardens, mini orchards and benches positioned to enjoy the view or a spot of privacy.

A pavilion or games room

Even an off-the-shelf wooden summerhouse can add life and intrigue to a garden when painted in a glorious colour, says Cuthill. Ideally, you will have a little barn or stables to convert into a games room with table tennis and a sound system for older children and teens.

Somewhere to splash

Buyers quickly fall in love with romantic-looking ponds and lakes, says Cocking but if you can afford it, it’s a swimming pool that buyers really want these days. According to a study from Direct Line Select Premier Insurance, a pool can add an immediate 15 per cent to a property’s value.

Level up

If your garden is sloping, it is worth investing in some landscaping to ensure you have at least one level area for a marquee or croquet, says Cunningham. If you can stretch to a tennis court as well, even better.

Courtyard garden

Jet wash the terrace

It’s amazing how much better a small garden looks with clean paving, says Chatwin. You don’t need to buy a jet wash; you can hire them from B&Q from around £55. You might also want to think about relaying shabby paving; according to checkatrade.com the price for a new flagstone terrace is £45 to £75 per square metre.

Revamp your garden door

Buyers will immediately clock that you don’t use your outside space if your back door doesn’t open. Replace it if necessary, Chatwin says, or at least repaint it and repair hinges and lock.

Plant up some pots

Terracotta pots planted with perennials or a larger pot containing a shrub or tree will immediately make your garden look loved, says Schneiderman.

Focus the eye

A point of interest – a mirror, a water feature or even a flowering climber – will immediately add personality to a small garden, says Cocking.

Invest in privacy

Smarten up fences and trellises with a dark stain then cover them in climbers; you’ll soon be cocooned in green, says Wakefield. To further screen off your garden from neighbours or ugly buildings, use willow screens (primrose.co.uk), although be careful they don’t block out the light, warns Cunningham.

Somewhere to sit

Even if you don’t have space for a dining table, a small round table for al fresco breakfasts or a bench for morning coffees will raise the profile of your outdoor space, says Schneiderman.

What not to do in the garden

Garden designer Butter Wakefield offers some advice on how not to approach outdoor space.

  • Meadows not lawn – rather than maintaining acres of immaculate lawn, let the grass and wild flowers grow long and mow paths through certain sections.
  • Sow less – if you’ve inherited a productive kitchen garden, the easiest way to scale it back is to sow fewer seeds the following year, or sow more wildflowers. And share your excess produce!
  • Let the weeds come – weeds support wildlife; in places that don’t need to be immaculate, let them grow. “If every one of Britain’s 24 million garden owners left a patch wild, think how many more bees there would be,” Wakefield says.
  • Shrubs not perennials – replace demanding perennials with spring-flowering shrubs: a shady border filled with hydrangeas and anemones is easy to maintain and has an incredible effect. Add further interest with spring-flowering bulbs.
  • Blur the margins – not every bed and border needs to be neatly edged and the paving doesn’t have to be completely clear; if we stop being fussy, we immediately halve the number of jobs to do, Wakefield says.

On the other hand, hiring a landscape designer or installer will increase upfront costs but can optimize plant choices, layout, and irrigation systems to maximize benefits, reduce maintenance difficulties, and ensure a long-lasting installation with professional support .

Title:

Content: Beautiful garden and house near Minsk.
The owners told how much the improvement of the design project cost
17.10.2023 08: 01 — Economy News | realt.by
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Source of material: realt.by
Vika and Vadim came to the improvement around their new house in the suburbs of Minsk according to the classical scheme - first they tried to do something themselves.
But at the initial stage, the couple realized that they need the help of a landscape designer.
Since that time, 4 years have passed and today you can fully assess the changes on the site - it is simply not recognized!
We talked to the owners and found out how much the design project and its implementation cost.
How did it all start?
It is believed that in suburban construction, the most difficult thing is to build a house.
And this stage Vika and Vadim finished by 2019.
It ’ s time to think about the goodness of the place.
- At that time, we finished finishing the facade, the house was almost ready to move in, except that the terrace was not enough, says Vika.
They were engaged in paths and landscaping, but quickly stopped in indecision - and what and where to plant, how it will look, and where to start?
Since my husband and I were city dwellers and never held a shovel in our hands, we decided that we needed the help of a specialist.
And this is what the invited landscape designer saw on the site: a new two-storey cottage on a good architectural project, with a snow-white facade and a black roof, and around this beauty - coldobins, dirt, mountains of soil and piles of construction debris.
Everything, as in this photo below:
The task for the designer
Although the spouses did not have a clear understanding of how the plot should look, they firmly believed that it should be a low-maintenance decorative garden - in order to spend a minimum amount of time and effort on its maintenance.
During the design process, landscape designer Ekaterina Mikhalevich and homeowners decided on the functional areas around the house: a fire pit, a bath, a barbecue, a lawn, parking, a fruit garden, a vegetable garden and so on.Then they took up the road network.
There were two options: stick to the correct geometric shapes or make winding tracks and rounded mixborders.
We decided on the first option, which formed the basis of the project.
In this photo and below - Fassena 's catnip, cuff, oregano, thyme, sage, lavender, perovskii, bloodsucker, veinik, sod pike, physostegia, mountain pines, Irga Lamarka
- We talked a lot with Vika and she seemed to me light, airy, but at the same time restrained, intelligent, - says Ekaterina Mikhalevich, landscape designer. - And this perception was reflected in the project.
I decided that the site would be good for such a technique in landscape design as contrast in shape.
In the project, I proposed to observe clear rectangular shapes, but with a light, delicate filling.
Therefore, in the garden there is no multicolor only 2-3 colors, no more.
It is based on blue, purple and white.
Plus conifers and shrubs - as a frame that supports the decorativeness of the garden even in winter.
Vika, in turn, says that working with the designer something resembled communication with a psychologist, only she shared with the designer not experiences, but pictures and images of what she likes.
- She picked up everything I liked about the color scheme, the project was born from the first time, if they corrected something, then by trifles, - she says.
Landscaping works
Having a plan in hand, the active development of the site was leveled, sprinkled.
The fertile soil layer was removed and piled up before the construction work began.
It was almost enough to level the terrain.
Only a small part of the street had to be filled with imported soil.
Before, by the way, there was a real forest here.
There are a few left of them, and they have been preserved.
Sketches from the project
- We were advised to remove them - they say, and the roof will be spoiled, and the leaves will need to be cleaned every autumn, - says Vika. - But they fit perfectly into the landscape, in the spring they give us fresh juice, in the summer - a cool shade.
Well, in the autumn, yes, we have to work with rakes.
Walking under them, I almost stepped on the underbirch.
He looked around, and he is not alone – he is still growing up nearby!
A little further - a couple of white stags and mosquitoes.
Surprisingly, after all the earthworks, the mushroom tree survived and the mushrooms grow right under the kitchen windows.
The designer encouraged young homeowners to make a full-fledged terrace facing the backyard - initially there was planned only a small area.
Now it is a favorite place – every morning you can start with coffee in the fresh air and contemplating your garden.
Perovskii, sharp-flowered veinik, mountain pine, Lamarka irga, lavender, medicinal bloodsucker
What and where to plant?
What else is good about a professional landscape design project is that the customer receives instructions with an assortment list of all plants and a plan for their planting.
Having a landing drawing in hand, even a novice gardener can cope with landings himself - the project spells out where, what and in what quantity you need to plant.
Here, for example, the entrance area at the gate.
This part is pass-through, ceremonial and according to the designer ’ s plan should be as structured and decorative as possible at any time of the year.
Therefore, a wood-shrub group is planted here - mountain pines, Japanese spirea and Lamarka irga.
Beginning of a large garden
Ekaterina says that 70% of the total volume of plantings should be exactly wood-shrub groups, since in our latitudes the period of decorativeness is not great for flowering perennials.
- We have in the garden from May to October, before the first frosts, something blooms, - says the hostess of the house. - Due to the shrubs, even under the snow, everything looks voluminous, and beautiful.
Bloodbread medicinal, sage
The mixborders contain the most unpretentious, but probably the most fragrant perennials - catnip, sage, oregano, thyme.
And also bloodsucker, pike - at the peak of decorativeness they can be cut and used as dry bouquets.
Catherine says that the range of plants was selected not only in color, but taking into account the soil on the site.
Here, the fertile layer is small, sand under it, so the garden is mainly drought-resistant plants.
- If the plant requires a special fertile soil, then planting pits are prepared for it, which are filled with suitable soil.
Heat-loving plants, which, it would seem, in our climatic conditions can die, can also be planted, but only if the microclimate of the site allows.
- Here, at the southern wall grows lilac Perovsky, lavender, although they belong to a different climatic zone, - explains Catherine. - But, as you can see, they like it here.
The fact is that in this place the mixborder is protected from drafts and cold wind by the facade of the house, it is always warm here.
Lawn and with automatic watering, homeowners did themselves - it turned out as planned: smooth, thick, green.
At the same time, the net against moles was not laid under it - solid sand is fertile under a thin layer, and moles do not start under such conditions.
The fact that we have a low-maintenance garden does not mean that you do not need to take care of it at all.
It is a living organism, it is constantly growing and developing.
And he definitely needs pruning, weeding, thinning, mowing - you can not get rid of these works.
Another thing is that these cases, as it seemed to us, bring pleasure to the owners.
True, the same spring pruning of fruit trees themselves do not dare - not enough experience.
Therefore, a gardener is invited and he quickly brings the fruit garden in order.
How to decorate the trunk circles of fruit trees?
Here, for example, planted zemklunika, which covers the ground with a dense carpet
How much does the garden cost?
Now, when you look from the terrace to the garden, it is difficult to imagine that everything began with small bushes from pots - 4 years ago everything looked completely different.
Vika says that at first there was a temptation to buy large trees at once, but the price tag acted sobering - she did not dare to buy irgu for 300 euros.
Then I saw an adult tree for $3,000.
As a result, Catherine found a nursery, where the seedling was smaller, but cost 70 rubles.
Hydrangea paniculata, veinik, catnip, cuff
Ornamental apple trees, hydrangeas tree
- Almost any plant can be found at a high price, and meet a budget acceptable option, - explains Catherine. - You need to look at different nurseries, know their range.
As a rule, if the nursery itself grows something, and does not bring it from abroad, then the cost will be lower.
How to find such nurseries?
The correct answer is to turn to a landscape designer, he usually knows where and what to look for.
As you can see, the site in a fairly short period of time has dramatically changed - where have the dirt and coldobins gone?
We can assume that a fortune was spent on the improvement, but no, everything is not so expensive.
According to Victoria ’ s calculations, if you take into account the cost of the design project and plants, it turns out about two and a half thousand dollars.
And it should be admitted that the voiced amount does not look like some unaffordable.
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Overall, with proper planning, vertical gardens can fit a range of budgets and still deliver significant benefits.

Plant selection for vertical gardens is critical and varies according to climate and indoor conditions.

Tropical or warmer climates and homes with higher humidity and temperatures can successfully support species like palms (majesty palm, areca palm), croton, mandevilla vines, and certain ferns.

These plants typically require higher moisture levels and thrive with adequate shading and regular watering.

For temperate or low-light indoor environments, hardy, low-maintenance plants with air-purifying qualities are preferable.

Popular choices include snake plants (Sansevieria), pothos (Epipremnum aureum), spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum), Chinese evergreens (Aglaonema), jade plants (Crassula ovata), and succulents such as kalanchoe and aloe vera.

These species tolerate lower light levels and require less frequent watering, making them suitable for typical residential interiors .

For arid climates, succulent varieties and cacti dominate due to their drought tolerance and minimal upkeep .

Tropical-style indoor gardens or green walls demand greater attention to environmental control.

This includes maintaining steady temperature and humidity levels, providing appropriate shade to avoid plant stress, and ensuring well-draining yet moisture-retentive soil.

When outdoor conditions do not support these plants, creating indoor controlled environments, such as greenhouses or terrarium-like setups, may be necessary.

Additionally, wind protection and layout planning, including incorporation of decorative elements, help maintain plant health and enhance overall garden aesthetics .

Title:

Content: How to create a tropical garden?
Tatyana Vashchenko
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The garden in the tropical style has long been not only an exotic, but also a romantic place that can be found in many parts of the world.
It is able to effectively decorate the space at your home, as well as significantly increase the total value of the property.
If the climatic conditions of your region do not allow you to create a tropical garden under the open sky, then it can always be placed in your own greenhouse.
The main thing is to think about the layout in advance and choose the right plants.
Often, the desire to acquire a garden in a tropical style arises after a vacation in one of the hot countries, where palms, vines and other plants characteristic of this style were found everywhere.
They are able to conquer everyone at first sight with their grandeur and beauty.
That is why I want to bring a piece of solar memories to my garden, filling it with similar seedlings.
We will tell you about the features and main nuances of a tropical garden created in our latitudes.
Do your plants need shading?
Before you start planting selected plants, study the requirements for their content.
In addition to the optimal temperature and humidity, you should pay attention to how they carry direct sunlight.
If there are plants in the tropical garden that need shading, then it should be created before planting such seedlings in the ground.
Best of all, the shadow creates an artificial cover or tall trees, under which some species can protect themselves from the scorching sun.
In the second case, we recommend choosing plants with wide leaves and powerful branches that will create a dense shadow on a significant area under their crowns.
It can be palm trees, tipuans or carob trees.
Learn about the local climate
The first thing you need to do to implement the idea of   creating a tropical garden is to study the local climate.
Its main characteristics, such as average monthly temperatures, rainfall and wind patterns, will be the starting point in choosing plants for your garden.
Most tropical trees and bushes prefer a hot and even arid climate.
This is understandable, because the territory of their origin is the tropics and subtropics, where it is always warm.
Some species have already adapted to moderate temperatures, but negative readings of the thermometer will withstand only a few.
Of great importance is the regular watering of tropical plants.
Many neglect this, believing that water can harm the root system.
But it is worth remembering the traditional tropical downpours, which saturate the soil with a large amount of moisture.
It stores plants for the entire dry period.
If the climate of your region only partially meets the requirements described, then you can arrange a tropical garden in a greenhouse type building.
What kind of soil do you have?
KP Zhukovka 21 century
Land-proekt
In addition to the climate, careful assessment requires the soil at the site of the proposed garden.
It is the basis that has a tremendous impact on the appearance, growth rate and durability of tropical plants.
The ideal option is considered rich soils in which the natural balance of nutrients for the root system is observed.
If your site is located on sandy and clay soils, then they must be additionally fertilized.
It is better to do this with compost, mulch and other means to improve the soil, which must be applied at a distance of at least 15 cm deep.
If your site is located in the lowland part and water stagnates there, then this can serve as a factor in the deterioration of soil properties and lead to the death of plants or their frequent diseases.
The fact is that pathogenic microorganisms and mold fungi begin to develop in constantly moist soil, which absorb the lion ’ s share of useful substances, thereby depleting the soil.
Therefore, we recommend using such an agricultural method as weeding the top layer of soil after heavy precipitation.
Find out what plants are growing in your area.
Landscape design in Valerianovo
Aster Garden
In our temperate zone, tropical plants are exotic, not the norm.
They can be seen in botanical gardens, closed greenhouses or frequent houses, where special conditions are created for representatives of the named family.
When we hear something about the tropics, the first thing we imagine is luxurious palm trees.
Indeed, these plants are among the most common inhabitants of exotic gardens.
There are many different types of them, each of which is beautiful in its own way.
Some palm trees are quite resistant to short-term mild winters, if they are wrapped with insulating material.
At the seaside resorts of our country, you can see the trees of this species, which perfectly adapted to the climatic characteristics of the region.
As for other plants for a tropical garden, in our band, individual varieties of lianas, begonias and ficus take root well.
But to create a full-fledged and diverse green corner with an exotic character, we recommend building a separate room for it, in which it would be possible to regulate the temperature and humidity of the air.
Or plant thermophilic plants in flower pots, which are brought into the house with the onset of cold weather.
Plan the layout of your garden
Before starting work on the creation of a tropical garden, you need to plan everything properly.
In particular:
- where and what plants will be planted;
- routes and style of design paths for leisurely walks;
- lighting and garden decor;
- irrigation system.
These aspects have a significant impact not only on the aesthetic perception of the garden, but also on its productivity and growth rate.
To visualize what you would like to recreate, use special programs that are available to everyone on the Internet.
You can seek advice and help from professionals in the industry - landscape architects.
They will not only acquaint you with the rules of registration of the site in a tropical style, but also help with practical tips.
Recommendations for the design of the green zone you will find in the Book of ideas How to make a beautiful garden.
Place a cover or hedge of plants to protect the garden from strong winds
Depending on the climate, there may be strong and cold winds in your region.
They can cause significant harm to the plants of the tropical garden, not only breaking them, but also frostbite.
To prevent such troubles, you can build a special mechanical cover in the form of an elegant fence.
Such a fence looks very beautiful if it is made in the form of a hedge.
It harmoniously fits into the style of a tropical garden and at the same time reliably protects plants in windy weather.
Add decorations like Buddha and other inspirational Asian statues
Make the design of a tropical garden original and unique will help successful decor.
The easiest and most effective way is to use different statues.
With the style of the tropics, sculptures in the Asian style look perfect.
First of all, these are all kinds of designs with the image of the Buddha, as well as other Eastern symbols.
Such compositions will bring tranquility to the green area near the house and make the atmosphere of the garden positive.
You can beautifully decorate the garden with the help of ordinary stones of various sizes, colors and shapes.
These natural materials expressively shade the lush greenery of plants and harmonize with the environment.
Learn how to care
In order for the tropical garden you created to please you from year to year, you need to study the basic rules for caring for it.
In addition to regular routine procedures, such as inspecting plants, watering and loosening the soil, more serious measures should be taken twice a year.
Plants that require pruning should be brought into the desired form only in the spring, in order to minimally injure their branches and prevent death.
At the same time, the soil is fertilized, cleaned of foreign objects and dry leaves.
Autumn is the time to prepare the garden for winter.
Tropical plants are sheltered or brought into the room if they grow in pots.
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In summary, indoor vertical gardens provide multiple, practical benefits supporting improved air quality, temperature regulation, and enhanced mental health.

While maintenance requires ongoing attention to light, water, and pest control, many homeowners can manage these tasks effectively, especially with suitable plant selection tailored to their home climate.

Vertical gardens are adaptable to various budgets, from small, low-cost DIY projects to professionally designed installations.

By choosing the right plants and understanding upkeep needs, you can create a beautiful, healthy, and sustainable vertical garden that significantly enriches your indoor living environment.

For further depth, it may be useful to explore specific case studies quantifying energy savings, detailed plant care schedules, cost-benefit analyses comparing professional versus DIY installation, and additional psychological studies detailing mental health outcomes associated with particular plant species.