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VERTICAL PLANT LIFE
Vertical Gardening Training Guide – Teachers’ Manual
Issued in 2017
This Training Guide – Teachers' Manual is a product of an ERASMUS + Strategic Partnership for Vocational Education and Training – Vertical Plant Life project no. 15-202-012669 KA2-VET-21/15 involving Biotechnical Centre Naklo (SI), University of Greenwich (UK), Humko d.o.o. (SI), Terra MBO (NL) and Hadlow College (UK).
INTRODUCTION
This manual is designed to provide practical guidelines for teaching the ‘Vertical Gardening’ VET
module. It is intended to be used in conjunction with the Catalogue of Knowledge, Skills and
Competences for VET module ‘Vertical Gardening’ and the ‘Vertical Gardening’ Textbook.
The module includes 40 hours of teaching time, divided into four learning units:
Learning Unit 1 – Introduction to Vertical Greening Systems – 5 hours
Learning Unit 2 – Installation of Vertical Greening Systems – 15 hours
Learning Unit 3 – Plants for Vertical Greening Systems – 5 hours
Learning Unit 4 – Maintenance of Vertical Greening Systems – 15 hours
The manual is divided into four chapters, one for each learning unit. Each chapter contains an overview
of the unit contents, the learning outcomes, duration and mode of assessment. This is followed by
guidelines for each lesson, including teaching methods, learning material, teaching material, teaching
resources and a lesson plan. Where applicable there are also suggestions for written exercises. Each
chapter concludes with suggested tasks for assessing student learning.
The manual also includes two appendices:
Appendix 1 – Guidelines for Maintaining a Living Wall
Appendix 2 – Resources
Appendix 2 – Resources consists of a directory of living wall manufacturers and suppliers in Europe.
The information contained in it is correct in September 2017, but is subject to change as the living wall
market expands in Europe.
"The European Commission support for the production of this publication does not constitute an
endorsement of the contents which reflects the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot
be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein."
3 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
CONTENTS
Learning Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS 4
Learning Unit 2 INSTALLATION OF VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS 14
Learning Unit 3 PLANTS FOR VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS 27
Learning Unit 4 MAINTENANCE OF VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS 35
Appendix 1 GUIDELINES FOR MAINTAINING A LIVING WALL 47
Appendix 2 RESOURCES 50
4 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
OVERVIEW
This unit provides an introduction to the course. It traces the historical development of vertical
greening systems, including green facades and living walls. The benefits of vertical greening in external
and internal environments are then discussed, including human health and wellbeing, and
environmental and economic benefits. A brief summary of the difference between natural and artificial
ecosystems highlights the importance of human intervention in order for living walls to thrive, in the
form of water and nutrient supply, and the management of pests and diseases. These topics are
covered in more detail in Unit 4. The different types of vertical greening system are then introduced,
with a consideration of their relative sustainability in terms of their lifetime environmental costs. The
unit concludes with a review of the different types of substrate and their appropriate use.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
At the end of this module students will be able to:
Outline the historical development of vertical greening
Identify the benefits of vertical greening
Identify the differences between natural and artificial ecosystems
Identify the different types of vertical greening systems
Identify the difference between media-based and hydroponic vertical greening systems
HOURS
5 hours
ASSESSMENT
Multiple choice questionnaire
Learning Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
5 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
3 theoretical
TEACHING METHOD
Presentation
Individual exercise
LOCATION
Classroom
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
Written exercise
TEACHING MATERIAL
PowerPoint presentation
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapters 1.1–1.3
Green Capital — video https://www.london.gov.uk/WHAT-WE-DO/environment/parks-green-spaces-and-biodiversity/greening-london/green-capital-green
The benefits of living green walls — video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K7FQd7DXdWc
Watermatic ‘Aerogation’ active green wall system — video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V__jRI0BaPs
1.1 The historical development of vertical greening, its benefits, and the
difference between natural and artificial ecosystems
6 | P a g e
LESSON PLAN
The lessons should cover the following topics:
1. The historical development of vertical greening
1.1 Green facades
1.2 Living walls
2. The benefits of vertical greening
2.1 The benefits of external living walls
2.1.1 Health and wellbeing benefits
2.1.2 Environmental benefits
2.1.3 Economic benefits
2.2 The benefits of internal living walls
3. The difference between natural and artificial ecosystems
WRITTEN EXERCISE
Choose one of the following:
1. Outline the historical development of vertical greening
2. Outline the benefits of internal living walls
3. Outline the main differences between natural and artificial ecosystems
7 | P a g e
HOURS
1 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Demonstration
LOCATION
Classroom
Living walls
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
TEACHING MATERIAL
Samples of different vertical greening systems
Living walls
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 1.4
1.2 The different types of vertical greening system and their relative
sustainability
8 | P a g e
LESSON PLAN
The lesson should cover the following topics:
1. Green facades
1.1 Direct green facades
1.2 Indirect green facades
2. Living walls
2.1 Geotextile mats
2.2 Plastic containers
2.3 Other systems
3. The relative sustainability of different systems
9 | P a g e
HOURS
1 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Demonstration
LOCATION
Classroom
Living walls
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
TEACHING MATERIAL
Samples of different vertical greening systems
Living walls
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 1.5
LESSON PLAN
The lesson should cover the following topics:
1. Media-based systems
2. Hydroponic systems
1.3 The different types of substrate and their appropriate use
10 | P a g e
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONNAIRE
Choose ONE answer for each question:
1. Which of the following is suitable for growing on a green façade?
a) Carex morrowii
b) Parthenocissus tricuspidata
c) Aster alpinus
d) Calluna vulgaris
2. Which of the following is suitable for growing on a living wall?
a) Wisteria sinensis
b) Ipomoea hederacea
c) Ampelopsis brevipedunculata
d) Calendula officinalis
3. Who developed the first geotextile living wall system?
a) Raymond Blanc
b) Patrick Blanc
c) Marco Pierre White
d) Stanley Hart White
4. What is ‘bioshading’?
a) Using plants to reduce the external temperature of a building
b) Using plants to reduce sunlight penetration through windows
c) Using plants to provide thermal insulation for a building
d) Using plants to provide shade for biodiversity
5. Which of the following statements is NOT true?
a) Living walls can protect buildings from ultra-violet light
b) Living walls can reduce energy loss through the building fabric
c) Living walls can make air conditioning units more energy efficient
d) Living walls can increase air temperature through transpiration
6. How do living walls reduce the ‘Urban Heat Island’ effect?
a) By decreasing air temperature through transpiration
b) By intercepting light and heat radiation
c) By creating enough turbulence to break vertical airflow
d) By emitting oxygen
Learning Unit 1 Assessment
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7. Which of the following leaf attributes does NOT affects its ability to capture particulate matter?
a) Size
b) Colour
c) Shape
d) Surface texture
8. What is a ‘bioflitration’ living wall?
a) An external living wall that is used to clean grey water
b) An external living wall that is used to clean air
c) An internal living wall that is used to clean air
d) An internal living wall that is used to clean grey water
9. Which of the following plants would you use to absorb formaldehyde?
a) Mother-in-law’s tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata)
b) Peace lily (Spathiphyllum sp.)
c) Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
d) Orchid (Phalenopsis sp.)
10. Which of the following is characteristic of artificial ecosystems?
a) Ecological succession takes place over time
b) Genetic diversity is very high
c) Food chains are long and complex
d) Nutrient cycling is incomplete
11. Which of the following statements about geotextile mats is NOT true?
a) They need irrigation once an hour
b) Replacing dead plants is difficult
c) Large plants can get heavy and tear the felt
d) Unattractive and odorous fungus and lichens can form on the felt
12. Which of the following is a geotextile mat system?
a) Nemec Cascade Garden system
b) Biotecture BioWall system
c) Poliflor Flexiverde Vydro system
d) Humko system
13. Which of the following is NOT a plastic container system?
a) Nedlaw living wall biofilter
b) AgroSci Aerogation Active Phytoremediation system
c) Novintiss Vertiss Plus system
d) Treebox Easiwall system
12 | P a g e
14. What is the assumed lifespan of geotextile systems?
a) 10 years
b) 25 years
c) 50 years
d) 100 years
15. What is the assumed lifespan of plastic container systems?
a) 10 years
b) 25 years
c) 50 years
d) 100 years
16. What is the service life of plants in geotextile systems?
a) 3.5 years
b) 7 years
c) 10 years
d) 15 years
17. What is the service life of plants in plastic container systems?
a) 3.5 years
b) 7 years
c) 10 years
d) 15 years
18. Which of the following statements is NOT true about media-based systems?
a) The growing medium must be able to retain water
b) The growing medium must allow good aeration
c) The growing medium must have high salinity
d) The growing medium must enable high cation exchange activity for nutrients
19. Which of the following is a media-based system?
a) Treebox Easiwall system
b) Patrick Blanc Mur Végétal system
c) Poliflor Flexiverde Vydro system
d) Sempergreen Flexipanel system
20. Which of the following is a hydroponic system?
a) Tracer Vertiflore system
b) Biotecture BioWall system
c) Humko system
d) Nemec Cascade Garden system
13 | P a g e
ANSWERS
1 b 11 a
2 d 12 c
3 b 13 a
4 b 14 a
5 d 15 c
6 b 16 a
7 b 17 c
8 c 18 c
9 b 19 a
10 d 20 b
14 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
OVERVIEW
This unit contains the basic knowledge required for installing vertical greening systems, including
health and safety issues, and understanding which locations are appropriate, and those that are not.
The installation process of green facades and living walls is described in some detail, including the
different types of superstructure (living wall system), and irrigation and lighting systems. This is
followed by a discussion of the appropriate planting techniques for the different types of system. The
unit concludes with a consideration of the appropriate techniques for water preparation, including
sterilization and fertigation.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
At the end of this module students will be able to:
Identify the health and safety issues relating to the installation of vertical greening systems
Identify appropriate locations for vertical greening systems in indoor and outdoor
environments
Draw an annotated diagram of a vertical greening system (cross-section and short text
description)
Install a simple living wall system
Install irrigation pipes
Install a lighting system
Install sensors
Describe appropriate planting techniques relative to the different types of vertical greening
systems
Describe appropriate techniques for water preparation, including sterilization and fertigation
HOURS
15 hours
ASSESSMENT
Practical test
Written/oral test
Learning Unit 2 INSTALLATION OF VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
15 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
2 theoretical
TEACHING METHOD
Presentation
Individual exercise
LOCATION
Classroom
Living walls
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
Written exercise
TEACHING MATERIAL
PowerPoint presentation
Living walls
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapters 2.1–2.2
Installation of a Terapia Urbana system – video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9bMihFLz_Y
Installation of the VerTexx system – video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAyzHjxkbUw&t=24s
Installation of a Mobilane live panel – video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xhXbDOpjxA
2.1 Health and safety regulations for working at height, and appropriate
locations for vertical greening systems
16 | P a g e
Cross-section of the Optigreen system http://www.optigreen.com/fileadmin/contents/cad_ausland/1_SystemL_O_Aus/1.250_O-Fassadengarten/1.250_EN_Wall_Garden_rev1_2014-07-30.pdf
Cross-section of the Terapia Urbana Fytotextile system http://www.verticalgreeningsystems.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/living-wall-specification.png
ANS product guide https://www.ansgroupglobal.com/sites/default/files/fields/downloads/files/ANS_Living_Wall_Product_Guide_2016%233.pdf
Treebox technical downloads http://www.treebox.co.uk/technicaldownload/commercial.html
SemperGreenwall brochure
https://www.sempergreen.com/us/project-recommendations/downloads
Modulogreen brochure
http://modulogreen.pt/sites/default/files/mg_catalogo_enpt_web.pdf
LESSON PLAN
The lesson should cover the following topics:
1. Health and safety issues
2. Appropriate locations for interior and exterior vertical greening systems
2.1 Climatic conditions
2.2 Construction conditions
2.3 Visual conditions
WRITTEN EXERCISE
Choose one of the following:
1. Outline your national Working at Height regulations
2. What are the main factors to bear in mind when planning to install a living wall?
17 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
1 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Demonstration
Team exercise
LOCATION
Living walls
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
Practical exercise
TEACHING MATERIAL
Living walls
Materials
Tools
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 2.3
2.2 Positioning and levelling
18 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
1 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Demonstration
Team exercise
LOCATION
Living walls
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
Practical exercise
TEACHING MATERIAL
Living walls
Materials
Tools
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 2.3
2.3 Installation of the substructure
19 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
3 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Demonstration
Team exercise
LOCATION
Living walls
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
Practical exercise
TEACHING MATERIAL
Living walls
Materials
Tools
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 2.3
2.4 Installation of different types of superstructure
20 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
2 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Demonstration
Team exercise
LOCATION
Living walls
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
Practical exercise
TEACHING MATERIAL
Living walls
Materials
Tools
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 2.3
2.5 Installation of irrigation systems
21 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
1 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Demonstration
Team exercise
LOCATION
Living walls
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
Practical exercise
TEACHING MATERIAL
Living walls
Materials
Tools
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 2.3
2.6 Installation of lighting systems
22 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
1 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Demonstration
Team exercise
LOCATION
Living walls
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
Practical exercise
TEACHING MATERIAL
Living walls
Materials
Tools
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 2.3
2.7 Installation of sensors
23 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
1 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Demonstration
Individual exercise
LOCATION
Living walls
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
Practical exercise
TEACHING MATERIAL
Living walls
Materials
Tools
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 2.4
2.8 Appropriate planting techniques
24 | P a g e
LESSON PLAN
The lesson should cover the following topics:
1. Geotextile mats
1.1 Hydroponic system
1.2 Semi-hydroponic system
2. Plastic containers
2.1 Hydroponic modular panels
2.2 Media-based modular panels
2.3 Media-based pots and troughs
25 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
3 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Demonstration
Team exercise
LOCATION
Living walls
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
Practical exercise
TEACHING MATERIAL
Living walls
Materials
Tools
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 2.5
LESSON PLAN
The lesson should cover the following topics:
1. Regulation of pH and EC
2. Disinfection
2.9 Appropriate techniques for water preparation
26 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
WRITTEN / ORAL TEST
Explain appropriate planting techniques for different types of geotextile mat and plastic container
systems.
PRACTICAL TEST
Draw an annotated diagram of a vertical greening system of your choice. Include a cross-section and a
short text description of the key features.
Learning Unit 2 Assessment
27 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
OVERVIEW
This unit is designed to take a total of five hours to cover theoretical and practical application, including
student assessment. This particular unit concerns the selection of plants suitable for various vertical
greening systems and the background knowledge useful for making that selection. It provides
information on plant hardiness zones, which plant types and species may be used, and other
considerations for selecting plants. Case studies of exterior and interior living walls offer an overall
view of design-based considerations involving maintenance, health and safety, environmental issues
and the client brief.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
At the end of this module students will be able to:
Identify plants for interior and exterior planting
Identify different plants for different sites (sunny, shade)
Prepare planting lists for different types of vertical greening system (Latin nomenclature and
pot size)
Prepare planting lists for different indoor and outdoor situations (Latin nomenclature and
pot size)
HOURS
5 hours
ASSESSMENT
Practical test
Written/oral test
Learning Unit 3 PLANTS FOR VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
28 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
0.5 theoretical
0.5 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Presentation
Demonstration
LOCATION
Classroom
Garden / nursery
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
TEACHING MATERIAL
PowerPoint presentation
Database of ornamental plants
Live plants
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 3.2–3.3
3.1 Suitable plants for indoor and outdoor vertical greening systems
29 | P a g e
LESSON PLAN
The lesson should cover the following topics:
1. Plant types for vertical greening systems
1.1 Bulbs
1.2 Annuals
1.3 Perennials
1.4 Shrubs
1.5 Climbers
1.6 Herbs
1.7 Fruit
1.8 Vegetables
2. Plant selection criteria
2.1 Environment
2.2 Design
2.3 Function
2.4 Maintenance
2.5 Health and safety in design and maintenance
3. Plants for exterior living walls
4. Plants for interior living walls
30 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
0.5 theoretical
TEACHING METHOD
Presentation
LOCATION
Classroom
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
TEACHING MATERIAL
Images of plants and their parts
Map of hardiness zones
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 3.2
Map of plant hardiness zones
http://www.plantmaps.com/
3.2 Plant hardiness zones and ratings
31 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
0.5 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Demonstration
LOCATION
Greenhouse
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
TEACHING MATERIAL
Potted plants
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 3.2
3.3 Pot sizes appropriate for different systems
32 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
1 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Demonstration
LOCATION
Living wall
Garden / nursery
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
TEACHING MATERIAL
Live plants
3.4 40 suitable plants
33 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
PRACTICAL TEST
Identify 40 plants suitable for living walls
1 hour
WRITTEN / ORAL TEST
Hypothetical scenario
1 hour
A client has requested a plant list for living walls on a building on the corner of Long Acre and James
Street in London’s popular Covent Garden. The wall on Long Acre has a north-west facing aspect, and
is generally in full shade to partial shade. The wall on James Street is south-west facing, and is generally
in full sun to partial shade. The average minimum temperature is 3.1°C, while the average maximum
temperature is 23.4°C.
Plants assigned to RHS hardiness zones H4 to H7 would be suitable for this site. There is no public
access to the living walls, but you will need to ensure there are no plants which may cause harm to the
public, especially during maintenance.
Provide a list of evergreen plants – a minimum of five plants for each of the two aspects – and a brief
statement explaining your choice.
Learning Unit 3 Assessment
34 | P a g e
FOR THE TEACHER – A SELECTION OF SUITABLE PLANTS
Long Acre Ajuga reptans 'Atropurpurea'
Asplenium scolopendrium
Carex morrowii
Hedera helix
Iris foetidissima
Pachysandra terminalis 'Variegata'
Polystichum setiferum
Vinca minor 'Atropurpurea'
Vinca minor f. alba 'Gertrude Jekyll'
James Street Ajuga reptans 'Atropurpurea'
Arenaria montana
Bergenia 'Bressingham White'
Bergenia cordifolia 'Eroica'
Campanula portenschlagiana
Carex morrowii
Carex oshimensis ‘Evergold’
Clematis cirrhosa 'Jingle Bells'
Cotoneaster conspicuus 'Decorus'
Cotoneaster dammeri
Daphne cneorum
Erica carnea
Euonymus fortunei 'Emerald Gaiety'
Euonymus fortunei 'Emerald 'n' Gold'
Hebe pinguifolia 'Pagei'
Hebe topiaria
Hedera helix
Iris foetidissima
Lonicera nitida 'Maigrun'
Luzula sylvatica 'Aurea'
Lysimachia nummularia 'Aurea'
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Nana'
Sarcococca hookeriana var. humilis
Sedum acre
Sedum album
Soleirolia soleirolii
Veronica liwanensis
Vinca minor 'Atropurpurea'
Vinca minor f. alba 'Gertrude Jekyll'
Viola odorata
35 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
OVERVIEW
Living walls are a horticultural challenge which requires good planning, execution and maintenance in
order to thrive. It is vital to check the quality of the materials and the method of implementation
throughout the process and to pay particularly close attention in the first few months after the wall
has been planted. Only a regularly maintained living wall will leave the client and other observers
feeling content over the long term. In order to care for and maintain living walls properly, it is vital to
possess basic knowledge of plants and their physiological needs, and to know how to identify and treat
pests and diseases.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
At the end of this module students will be able to:
Identify the basic needs of plants and the causes of physiological stress
Identify common pests and diseases and other signs of plant stress
Apply treatments for pests and diseases
Replace plants
Prune plants
Describe the effect of seasonal variation relative to the maintenance of vertical greening
systems
Install sensors
Describe how to check the integrity of the system (irrigation, lighting, controls etc.) and how
to troubleshoot
Prepare a maintenance plan
HOURS
15 hours
ASSESSMENT
Practical test
Written/oral test
Learning Unit 4 MAINTENANCE OF VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
36 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
1 theoretical
1 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Presentation
Demonstration
Team exercise
LOCATION
Classroom
Greenhouse
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
Practical exercise
TEACHING MATERIAL
PowerPoint presentation
Unhealthy plants
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapters 4.1–4.2
4.1 The symptoms and causes of plant stress
37 | P a g e
LESSON PLAN
The lesson should cover the following topics:
1. The basic needs of plants and the causes of physiological stress
1.1 Light
1.2 Temperature
1.3 Air
1.4 Water
1.4.1 Humidity
1.4.2 Watering
1.5 Substrates
1.6 Nutrients
2. Common pests, diseases and disorders of plants
2.1 Plant diseases
2.1.1 Physiological diseases
2.1.2 Fungal diseases
2.1.3 Bacterial diseases
2.1.4 Viral diseases
2.2 Plant pests
2.2.1 Aphids
2.2.2 Mealybugs
2.2.3 Scale insects
2.2.4 Mites
2.2.5 Leaf miners
2.2.6 Thrips
2.2.7 Snails
38 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
1 theoretical
2 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Presentation
Demonstration
Individual exercise
LOCATION
Classroom
Living walls
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
Practical exercise
TEACHING MATERIAL
PowerPoint presentation
Living walls
Potted plants
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 4.3
4.2 Techniques of plant replacement in different systems
39 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
2 theoretical
3 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Presentation
Demonstration
Individual exercise
LOCATION
Classroom
Living walls
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
Practical exercise
TEACHING MATERIAL
PowerPoint presentation
Living walls
Tools
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 4.4
4.3 Pruning techniques
40 | P a g e
LESSON PLAN
The lesson should cover the following topics:
1. Cutting back after flowering
2. Cutting back in spring
41 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
1 theoretical
2 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Presentation
Demonstration
Individual exercise
LOCATION
Classroom
Living walls
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
Written exercise
TEACHING MATERIAL
PowerPoint presentation
Living walls
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 4.5
4.4 The effect of seasonal variation on maintenance
42 | P a g e
LESSON PLAN
The lesson should cover the following topics:
1. External living walls
1.1 Spring growth
1.2 Summer growth
1.3 Autumn growth
1.4 Winter hibernation
2. Internal living walls
2.1 Spring
2.2 Summer
2.3 Autumn
2.4 Winter
WRITTEN EXERCISE
Choose one of the following:
1. Outline the effect of seasonal variation on external living walls
2. Outline the effect of seasonal variation on internal living walls
43 | P a g e
Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
1 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Demonstration
Individual exercise
LOCATION
Living walls
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
Practical exercise
TEACHING MATERIAL
Living walls
Tools
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 4.6
4.5 How to check the integrity of a system
44 | P a g e
LESSON PLAN
The lesson should cover the following topics:
1. Plant health
2. Substrate moisture
3. Concentration of nutrients
4. pH of the water
5. Irrigation system
6. Automation system
7. Lighting system
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Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
HOURS
0.5 theoretical
0.5 practical
TEACHING METHOD
Presentation
Individual exercise
LOCATION
Classroom
LEARNING MATERIAL
Worksheet
Practical exercise
TEACHING MATERIAL
Maintenance plan
Calendar
TEACHING RESOURCES
Textbook chapter 4.7
LESSON PLAN
The lesson should cover the following topics:
1. Plants
2. Vertical greening systems
4.6 How to prepare a maintenance plan
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3. Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
WRITTEN / ORAL TEST
Describe the basic needs of plants and the causes of physiological stress.
PRACTICAL TEST
Fill in the following maintenance matrix with appropriate tasks and months.
Maintenance operation J F M A M J J A S O N D
Learning Unit 4 Assessment
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Unit 1 INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL GREENING SYSTEMS
PLANTS
Ideally the plants should be inspected once a month to ensure that they are free from pests and
diseases, and to enable plants to be replaced as necessary. If pests or diseases are identified, systemic
treatments need to be administered through the irrigation system. Treatment should be repeated
periodically in order to completely eliminate the pests and diseases concerned. In the event of severe
pest attacks, the plants will need to be replaced. If certain nutrients are lacking, foliar fertigation should
be carried out using appropriate water-soluble fertilisers or foliar fertilisers.
In addition, different plants have different requirements in terms of pruning or tidying, and these
maintenance tasks take place at different times of year. All herbaceous perennials and ornamental
grasses that die back in winter can be cut back, either in autumn or spring. Trimming perennials after
flowering finishes will help improve their appearance, and will also improve their flowering the
following year. However, you can leave some stems over winter to provide homes and food for wildlife,
and then trim back in spring. Evergreen perennials and ornamental sedges are not cut back, but are
tidied during spring and summer by removing dead foliage. More tender plants with woody stems,
such as Penstemon are left so that the old stems protect the crown from frost. Leave pruning of these
and other borderline-hardy perennials until the risk of frost has passed – usually April or May.
The following examples of plants commonly grown in living walls illustrate this variability:
Hylotelephium spectabile – cut back after flowering to maintain shape or leave seedheads
over winter
Thymus ‘Doone Valley’ – clip to shape with secateurs after flowering (Pruning Group 10)
Bergenia ‘Pink Dragonfly’ – remove faded flower spikes
Carex oshimensis ‘Evergold’ – in summer cut out any dead leaves
Ajuga reptans – no pruning required
Pachysandra terminalis – no pruning required
SYSTEMS
The irrigation plant room and substrate moisture should be physically checked once a month, while
ideally the irrigation log and moisture metres should be checked remotely on a daily basis. Nutrient
and pH levels should be checked every month, and the lighting system every 3 months. Regular
maintenance work should be carried out either monthly or every three to six months. Standard
periodic maintenance procedures are as follows:
Substrate moisture If the level of moisture is too low or too high, the timing or frequency of
irrigation must be regulated. Dielectric humidity sensors may need to be
repositioned. These oxidise after a few months and will need to be replaced.
Appendix 1 GUIDELINES FOR MAINTAINING A LIVING WALL
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Nutrients If the electrical conductivity is too high, the reservoir must be emptied and
refilled with water and a review conducted on the nutrients added. Since water
flushes nutrient salts when circulating through the substrate, thereby causing
the water to become oversaturated with salt, the reservoir should be emptied
after five to ten fillings with water and fertilisers.
pH This is checked using a digital pH meter. If the pH is too high, the appropriate
amount of acid needs to be added in order to soften the water. If the pH is too
low, pure water is added or the reservoir is emptied and refilled.
Irrigation system If the system allows, check the water level in the reservoir. If water does not
flow into the reservoir, check the functioning of the solenoid valve and
whether there is any water in the water distribution system. CaCO3 may cause
the float switches and solenoid valves to get stuck. If so, it can be dissolved
using citric acid. The drip emitters need to be checked to see whether there
are any dry areas in the substrate. If the drip irrigation system does not work,
acid fertiliser such as Pekacid can be used to clean it, or the emitters and hoses
need to be replaced. The water filter needs to be cleaned periodically every
month; the functioning of the pump needs to be checked every three months
if it reaches the set pressure.
Automation system The functioning of the automation process needs to be checked, including the
time settings and duration of watering, the moisture levels, lighting and the
fertiliser doses. If the parameters have changed, they can be adjusted to their
pre-set levels. All levels need to be digitally archived.
Lighting system High-pressure sodium spotlights need to be replaced after 15,000–20,000
hours of use.
EXTERNAL LIVING WALLS
Spring Moderate watering is required so that the substrate is mildly moist, using appropriate
phosphorous fertilisers to improve root development, fertilising via the roots and
leaves.
Summer Heavy watering is required due to the increased levels of evapotranspiration. The
fertiliser should contain a high dose of potassium, and control of pests and diseases
should be increased, especially during wet periods.
Autumn Moderate watering is required, using fertilisers with a high dose of potassium and
humic acids in order aid the plant’s preparations for hibernation.
Winter There is a threat of winter drought in February when the water in the substrate may
be frozen and the level of sun radiation is already high. It is vital to water and spray
evergreen plants regularly during sunny weather using warm water. Since the plants
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do not produce biomass during this phase, fertigation is not necessary. Deciduous
perennials and small shrubs should be watered occasionally during good weather,
which dries out the substrate in living walls.
INTERNAL LIVING WALLS
Spring The fertilisers need to contain more nitrogen in order to encourage plant growth. Only
moderate watering is required; better too dry than too wet. Lighting needs to be
between 800–1200 lux for at least 12 hours a day.
Summer The fertilisers used need to contain appropriate proportions of nitrogen and potassium
in order to achieve more compact growth. Calcium and magnesium need to be added
when using soft water for irrigating. The level of watering is the same as for spring.
Lighting needs to be between 800–1200 lux for at least 12 hours a day.
Autumn The fertilisers need to contain a high level of potassium, bio-activators and
microelements. The level of irrigation should be moderate; better dry than wet.
Lighting needs to be between 1200–1400 lux for at least 12–14 hours a day.
Winter The fertilisers need to contain a high level of potassium, bio-activators and
microelements. Irrigation should be moderate; better dry than wet. Lighting needs to
be between 1200–1400 lux for at least 12–14 hours a day.
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DIRECTORY OF LIVING WALL MANUFACTURERS AND SUPPLIERS IN EUROPE
AUSTRIA Optigreen http://www.optigruen.at
Vertical Magic Garden http://www.vertical-magic-garden.com
BELGIUM Any Green https://www.anygreen.be
De Boer http://www.deboer.be
Optigreen http://www.optigreen.nl
BULGARIA Sundar https://www.sundaritalia.com
CZECH REPUBLIC Nemec https://cascadegarden.nemec.eu
Optigreen http://www.optigreen.com
ESTONIA Green Fortune http://www.greenfortune.com
FINLAND Green Fortune http://www.greenfortune.com
FRANCE Greenwall Systems http://www.greenwall.fr
Inventae Vert http://www.inventaevert.fr
Le Prieuré http://www.vegetalid.fr
Novintiss http://www.novintiss.com/fr/novintiss.html
Optigreen http://www.optigreen.com
Patrick Blanc https://www.verticalgardenpatrickblanc.com
Tracer http://www.tracer.fr
GERMANY Green Fortune http://www.greenfortune.com
Mobilane https://mobilane.eu/de/home
Optigreen http://www.optigruen.de
RUOF http://www.ruof-raumbegrünung.de
HUNGARY Green Fortune http://www.greenfortune.com
Greenwall.pro http://greenwall.pro
Appendix 2
RESOURCES
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Mobilane http://www.mobilane.hu
Optigreen http://www.optigreen.com
IRELAND Optigreen http://www.optigreen.com
ITALY Growing Green http://www.growinggreen.it
Naturewall http://www.naturewall.eu
Optigreen http://www.optigreen.com
Optima Giardini Pensili http://www.optimagiardinipensili.it
Poliflor http://www.poliflor.net
Sundar https://www.sundaritalia.com
Verde Profilo https://verdeprofilo.com
LATVIA Green Fortune http://www.greenfortune.com
LUXEMBOURG Optigreen http://www.optigruen.de
NETHERLANDS Ambius http://www.ambius.nl
Copijn http://www.copijn.nl
De Groene Wand http://degroenewand.nl
Dutch Impressive Green http://www.dutchimpressivegreen.com
Ginkel Groep https://www.ginkelgroep.nl
Green Fortune https://greenfortune.nl
Mobilane https://mobilane.nl
Optigreen http://www.optigreen.nl
Saint-Gobain Cultilène http://www.cultiwall.nl
Sempergreen https://www.sempergreen.com
Vertical Gardens http://verticalgardens.eu
Wallfore Systems http://wallflore.nl
NORWAY Green Fortune http://www.greenfortune.com
Sempergreen https://www.sempergreen.com
Vertical Garden Design http://www.verticalgardendesign.com
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POLAND Green Fortune http://www.greenfortune.com
Mobilane http://www.mobilane.hu
Optigreen http://www.optigreen.com
Sempergreen https://www.sempergreen.com
PORTUGAL Modulogreen http://www.modulogreen.com
Vertical Garden Design http://www.verticalgardendesign.com
ROMANIA Mobilane http://www.mobilane.hu
RUSSIA Green Fortune http://www.greenfortune.com
Mobilane http://www.mobilane.hu
RaStenia http://fytowall.ru
Sundar https://www.sundaritalia.com
SLOVAKIA Mobilane http://www.mobilane.hu
Optigreen http://www.optigreen.com
SLOVENIA Humko http://www.greenwalls.si
SPAIN Air Garden https://www.air-garden.com
Bures Innova http://www.buresinnova.com
Ignia Green http://www.igniagreen.com
Paimed https://www.paimed.com
Paisajismo Urbano http://www.paisajismourbano.com
Sempergreen https://www.sempergreen.com
Terapia Urbana http://www.terapiaurbana.es
Urbanarbolismo http://www.urbanarbolismo.es
Vertical Garden Design http://www.verticalgardendesign.com
Vivers Ter http://v-ter.com
SWEDEN Green Fortune http://www.greenfortune.com
Optigreen http://www.optigreen.com
Sempergreen https://www.sempergreen.com
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Vertical Garden Design http://www.verticalgardendesign.com
SWITZERLAND Optigreen http://www.optigreen.com
TURKEY Optigreen http://www.optigreen.com
UNITED KINGDOM ANS Global https://www.ansgroupglobal.com
Biotecture http://www.biotecture.uk.com
Frosts http://www.frostslandscapes.co.uk
Geolex http://www.geolex.co.uk
Hy-Tex http://www.pixel-garden.co.uk
Inleaf https://inleaf.co.uk
Landmark http://www.landmarklivingroofs.co.uk
Mobilane https://mobilane.co.uk
Nemec https://nemec.co.uk
Optigreen http://www.optigreen.com
PHS Greenleaf https://www.phsgreenleaf.co.uk
Plant Plan http://plantplan.co.uk
Scotscape https://www.scotscape.net
Sundar https://www.sundaritalia.com
Tiga Europe http://www.tigaeurope.co.uk
Treebox http://www.treebox.co.uk
Vertology http://www.vertology.uk.com
Watermatic http://www.watermaticltd.co.uk
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“This product is the intellectual property of the authors and the project partners of the Erasmus+ project
Vertical Plant Life no. 15-202-012669 and may only be used within the scope of the project as a template
of good practice. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or
transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of the authors and the
partner institutions Biotechnical Centre Naklo (SI), University of Greenwich (GB), Humko d.o.o (SI), Terra
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