A simple walk on any beach anywhere, and the plastic waste spectacle is present. All over the world the statistics are growing, staggeringly. Tonnes of plastic waste are discarded every year, polluting our land, rivers, coastlines, beaches and oceans.
Next time you see plastic bottles lying around, you may want to consider repurposing these into a trendy vertical garden. Not only is this a great alternative use, but your vertical garden can be set up anywhere without any fuss.
Follow these easy steps from REDISA, and turn your waste into worth!
Step One: COLLECT YOUR BOTTLES
Plastic bottles come in a variety of sizes and colours. Select the bottles that suit you best. If you’d like a more structured and uniform look for your vertical garden, then stick to one colour and bottle type. If you’d prefer a more abstract style, then feel free to combine colours, shapes and sizes.
Step Two: CUT & PREPARE YOUR BOTTLES
Be sure to rinse your bottles and remove all labels before starting. Then, using a sharp blade or Stanley knife, cut out a piece wide enough to allow the plant to grow, but be sure to keep a deep base so the plant’s roots are able to thrive in the soil. Finally, punch holes in the sides of the bottle and thread your string through. As you thread the string, be sure to tie a knot where needed, so the bottom of each bottle rests securely.
Step Three: FILL YOUR BOTTLES
You could use a variety of plants to fill your vertical garden but there are a few things to keep in mind.
Choose plants that require similar sun exposure and grow at similar rates. Remember that your garden is vertical, so plant “flexibility” needs to be considered in terms of how they fall.
Vertical gardens can also become dry – like any potted plant – so using potting soil is a must. This will ensure your garden retains water and nutrients.
Finally, if you have plants that require less water, you should plant them at the top of your vertical garden, since this area tends to dry more quickly.
HAVE FUN!
Article courtesy of REDISA
