GARDENING isn’t just for those with lots of outdoor space.
By planting upward you can create a living wall that makes the most of a patio or balcony.
Here’s how to create a vertical garden on a budget . . .
PALLET PLANTS: A wooden pallet or two will work wonders for creating your dream garden and it’s pretty easy to get your hands on them for free.
Just ask on Facebook or in other local community groups and you can usually find some that are no longer wanted. Just sand down any rougher bits.
To plant directly into the pallet, you will need a stapling gun and landscaping fabric — starts from £7 at B&Q. Stretch the fabric around the back, bottom end and sides of the pallet and staple in place while leaving the top end, and front slats, open for watering.
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With the pallet resting on its back on the floor, fill it with potting soil through the slats, while leaving plenty of room for plants.
For shaded walls, try planting flowers such as viola and pansies. For sunnier spots, try petunias. You can also add in different types of grasses to create more greenery.
Once you have planted, tip the pallet on to its side. If you have small children or the pallet seems unstable, try to attach it to your wall with screws.
EATING WALL: Vertical gardens can also work well for growing vegetables and herbs. But it’s best not to plant directly into the pallet because of chemicals that may have been used to treat the wood.
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Instead, attach pots to slats of the pallet when it’s on its side — and grow from there.
To attach pots, wrap metal wire around the pots and then around the wood.
Upcycle jars, plastic pots and other containers to create the pots, and save on buying new.
You can also give your pallet and the pots a lick of colourful paint.
Basil, strawberries, thyme, coriander, salad leaves and chillies are among food crops that can be grown in the pots.
- All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.
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This post first appeared on thesun.co.uk