Large green walls have become a favorite of architects and designers for projects everywhere. It puts indoor plants of all kinds in the spotlight – which is one of the biggest trends of the moment – without taking up too much space, as would be the case for plants set in large pots.
While they remain a continuing staple in home decors, the question is whether a greenery wall created with artificial plants is better suited to your space than one that’s made entirely of live plants. Here are some of the main differences between the two, which may help you make your decision when the time comes.
Aesthetic
When you opt for a high-quality artificial plant, it will look just as good as a natural plant. Even the most diehard skeptics can be won over by how realistic the reproductions look! Artificial plants also have the distinct advantage of never drying out, or wilting from over or under watering.
If your wall is made of artificial plants your plants will always be in bloom, they will always keep their shape, and you can modify a custom creation so that the colors and dimensions can easily marry with different types of concepts. Some live plants can be too fragile once plucked from their natural environments – but these can be reproduced so you can enjoy them all year round. These are only some of the visual advantages that you’ll find if you go with artificial plants.
Affordability and easy maintenance
Outright, when you purchase plants, be it live or artificial, to create a green wall, they’ll likely be roughly the same price. However, fake plants will likely last longer as their lifespan is usually about 10 years.
An important point to consider is care and maintenance, which is no small task when you’re dealing with a live green wall. The plants will need special lighting, as well as an irrigation system and regular fertilization – which will also play on your plumbing and electricity needs.
Once installed, live green walls will need regular maintenance by a specialist. You will need to have someone trained in pruning and cleaning your plants so that the wall will maintain its original look. Some vegetation might also deteriorate, forcing you to replace them. Your specialist will also need to regularly add the necessary nutrients, as well as check on your irrigation system, clean the filters and the drains.
All this being said, the monetary aspect is definitely something that you will need to take into account. On the other hand, if you opt for an artificial green wall, you’ll notice that there is almost no maintenance required – you will just need to spray it with a plant cleaner once a season to repel dust and keep their natural luster. Once it’s installed, an artificial wall requires no extra costs.
Air quality and security
Another element that is important to consider is the quality of your air. It’s well known that live plants will always improve the quality of air because they act as natural air purifiers. However, once a plant is in a green wall, their growth becomes stunted, ending their potential for air purification. This makes the artificial option a continually more interesting one as you will be able to avoid any humidity issues related to living botanicals, as well as the presence of small insects.
Finally, in a commercial context, it’s important to know that artificial plants can receive an M1 security treatment making them less of a fire risk. A certificate can also be given for insurance purposes.
For the rest, both avenues are possible, creating spaces that promote employee well-being and performance. So it’s up to you to make the final choice: will you go for artificial or natural plants?
For the rest – either option looks great and they both create spaces that promote the well-being and productivity of employees. The final choice is yours: will you opt for artificial or live green walls?
