What is a hanging garden?

A hanging garden is a planted system where vegetation grows in suspended containers, panels or modules rather than in-ground beds. These installations are used on balconies, walls, roofs and interiors to add greenery where horizontal soil is limited. They provide shading, air filtration and aesthetic value while requiring design attention to weight, irrigation and plant selection for long-term success.

How does a hanging garden irrigation system work?

Irrigation systems for hanging gardens typically use drip lines, pressure-compensating emitters, or recirculating hydroponic pumps to deliver water and nutrients directly to plant roots. Automation via timers and moisture sensors controls frequency and volume, reducing waste. Proper design ensures even distribution and includes overflow management to protect building fabric and minimize runoff.

What is the difference between modular pocket panels and hydroponic living walls?

Modular pocket panels use pre-filled fabric or rigid pockets with substrate and individual plantings, making replacement easy. Hydroponic living walls rely on inert media and nutrient solutions circulated by pumps, reducing substrate weight and often permitting denser plantings. Hydroponic systems require more monitoring but can be lighter and more water-efficient than substrate panels.

When should I use a hydroponic system instead of a substrate-based hanging garden?

Choose hydroponics when weight is a primary constraint (e.g., lightweight rooftops), when water conservation is critical, or when you need precise nutrient control for high-density plantings. Substrate systems are preferable for simplicity, lower technical maintenance and easier plant establishment in small residential projects.

How much does it cost to install a hanging garden?

Costs vary widely: small balcony systems can start at $150–$600 for DIY kits, while professionally installed façade systems range from $100–$400 per m² for basic modular systems and $300–$1,000+ per m² for complex hydroponic or structurally intensive installations. Incentives and scale economies can reduce net costs; always obtain multiple quotes and factor in maintenance expenses.

Hanging Gardens: to Design and Care