Vertical Garden Space Optimizer
Calculate optimal plant spacing and capacity for your vertical garden. Get the most from your wall space.
Total width of your wall/trellis
Total height available
How do I space plants in a vertical garden?
Vertical garden spacing depends on plant size and root spread, not just top growth. Small plants (lettuce/herbs): 6-8 inches apart. Medium (strawberries): 8-10 inches. Large (tomatoes): 12-18 inches on center. Vines need support every 6-12 inches horizontally. Always consider mature size, not seedling size. More plants isn't better - overcrowded plants produce less and disease more.
What grows best in vertical gardens?
Best vertical garden plants: Leafy greens (lettuce, spinach, kale), Herbs (basil, mint, parsley), Strawberries, Cherry tomatoes, Pole beans, Cucumbers, Small peppers. Avoid large melons or indeterminate tomatoes without strong support. Choose compact or trailing varieties bred for containers. Consider sun exposure - most vertical gardens need 6+ hours direct light.
How much weight can a vertical garden support?
Pocket planters hold 2-4 quarts soil each. A 8×6 ft wall with 48 pockets supports ~100-200 lbs when wet. Frame systems with 5-gallon bags support more but need stronger mounting. Always mount to studs, not drywall. Plan for wet soil weight - it doubles when watered. Distribute weight evenly across wall studs for安全.
Do vertical gardens need special irrigation?
Vertical gardens need frequent watering - gravity pulls water down fast. Drip irrigation or self-watering pockets work best. Water daily in summer, especially on south-facing walls. Consider gravity-fed systems with reservoir at top. Mulch pockets to reduce evaporation. Self-watering planters with water reservoirs need refilling every 2-3 days in hot weather. Monitor more often than ground gardens.