Plant strategies for north-facing versus south-facing green walls

Creating a thriving green wall requires careful consideration of the wall's orientation and the unique challenges it presents. North-facing and south-facing walls offer vastly different growing conditions, necessitating distinct plant strategies for each.

Let's explore the best approaches for both orientations to ensure your green wall flourishes.

Plant strategy for north-facing green walls

North-facing walls receive the least sunlight, creating cooler, shadier conditions that require specific plant strategies 

North facing aspects are usually cooler and the moisture stays in the soil for longer plants in this environment will usually grow slower, and this is usually due to lower light level:

• Choose shade-tolerant climbers like climbing hydrangea, jasmine, and pyracantha.
• Opt for woodland plants adapted to low light levels, such as lily of the valley, periwinkle, and snowdrops.
• Consider ferns and hostas for lush foliage in moist conditions4.
• Incorporate evergreen options like ivy for year-round coverage

North-facing green walls maintenance

• Ensure proper soil preparation with peat-free compost to support plant growth.
• Implement a mulching strategy to retain moisture and reduce watering requirements.

Plant strategy for south-facing green walls

South-facing green walls receive more sunlight and warmth, creating ideal conditions for sun-loving plants.

Plants in this aspect will usually grow significantly faster. This is due to the fact that a southern aspect will receive more sunlight per day, and its usually warmer:

• Choose Mediterranean plants that thrive in sunny conditions, such as lavender and rock rose.
• Include plants like Verbena bonariensis, bearded irises, and alliums for vibrant displays.
• Consider fruit-bearing plants like peaches that benefit from the warmth of south-facing walls. 

However, this would also result in the soil drying out much faster that the Northern aspect:

• Implement an efficient irrigation system to combat potential dryness.
• Regularly prune and train plants to maintain desired shape and prevent overgrowth.

Plant strategies for east-facing green walls

An east facing living wall will receive more gentle morning sun. This is excellent for flowers which require sunlight, but not extreme heat. 

This is ideal for bees and butterflies which would be more active in the morning. Being sheltered from the morning sun helps to prevent heat stress on the plants and the soil retains more moisture.

Plant strategy for west-facing green walls

West facing living wall will usually have a broader range of plants from full sun to partial shade which will happily grow. 

The wind could have an effect on the soil’s moisture levels, so special attention should be paid to ensure overall success.

Universal strategies

Regardless of orientation, some strategies apply to all green walls:

• Conduct a thorough site analysis considering light levels, temperature, and rainfall.
• Select plants with similar water requirements to simplify irrigation needs.
• Use high-quality, peat-free growing media to support plant health.
• Install proper drainage systems to prevent waterlogging.
• Consider incorporating artificial lighting for indoor green walls or areas with extremely low light.

Book a consultation with Viritopia

By tailoring your plant selection and care strategies to the specific orientation of your green wall, you can create a thriving vertical garden that enhances your space year-round.

Viritopia offers consulting sessions and general advice, to make sure your wall has the best plants for the best type of surroundings. Book a living wall consultation with our expert team today to find out how we can help you.