Matthew Redding

The vertical walls based on hydroponics are fundamentally unsustainable.They rely on constant monitoring by humans, they are artificial lige supporting systems unless they are fully emulating conditions that exist in nature which is rare. Unless a system is developed that invites spontaneous colonisation by plants – like porous sponge ceramics or…[Read more]

The “felt” fabric. Blanc’s installations has two layers of fabric that he drips his water/fertilizer solution through. This is a non-soil installation. The plants root into the fabric and fed by the solution.

Hey Charles.. what do you mean by nonwoven material for a base? Are you referring to the waterproof backing or the felt?

I’ve used a variety of green roof techniques which have been more or less successful. I’m gathering information about what folks have done with green walls, the materails they have used and their success. I’ve read quite a bit about Patrick Blanc’s work but keep wondering about maintenance and costs. I’m currently looking into the nonwoven…[Read more]

Hey Jason, looks like the department has decided to ask you to lecture this coming Fall. I know it seems like it has taken forever, and I apologize but we have been very busy restructuring our program and interviewing potential department heads. The good news is that they still want you to come and lecture and the program is doing great. I also…[Read more]

Thanks Jason. Will have to get hold of his new book as well.

Has anyone used epiphytes on green walls, and if so what success rate did you have. How did you attach them to the walls, simply on a wire trellis structure or did you use something more intricate – any info would be great!

i would research xeriscape plants – there are a bunch of native drought tolerant grasses and sedge that could work – Festuca glauca, Muhlenbergia c. …Also some hardy vines like Wisteria or Honeysuckle or Grape – Sedum, Yucca and Agave of course…and you realize this as you mention succulents…Rosemary var., Erigeron, Gaura, Salvia varieties…[Read more]

Check out Jason’s review on Patrick Blanc’s new book The Vertical Garden.

And I have to agree, it is indeed quite fabulous and I am not at all disappointed. If nothing else, it is worth it to see the pictures of Mr. Blanc himself perched over a waterfall with his green hair.