The natural stone market in Australia is expected to see steady growth over the coming years. According to 6Wresearch, the Australia Natural Stone and Marble Market is projected to grow at a 5.7% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2026 to 2032. The report identifies residential and commercial building construction as growing sectors.

These figures reflect wider building and renovation activity, where natural materials continue to find a place in both indoor and outdoor spaces. Alongside that growth, buyers have more colours, finishes and formats to choose from than ever.

Yet more choice does not always make things easier. Once the options start piling up, a few questions usually come into the picture:

• Will the finish work with the rest of the space?
• Is the format right for the area?
• Is the stone suitable for its intended use?
• Will enough stock be available when the project needs it?

This is where trusted natural stone suppliers become far more important, as their years of industry expertise help buyers make an informed decision.

For Australian buyers, this support comes in two forms. Stone Depot brings its expertise as a natural stone wholesaler, supporting commercial, trade and residential projects, while Stone Centre offers an e-commerce option for those who prefer to browse and buy natural stone online. Both give buyers different ways to explore stone, depending on the needs of their project and how they prefer to shop.

Different Buyers with Different Requirements

Not everyone walks in with the same mindset. A first-home designer thinks completely different from a builder who is ordering for the next project. Here’s a quick snapshot of who’s usually in the market and what they’re really after.

How Do You Know If the Stone is Right for the Project?

A stone is right for the project when its durability, porosity and appearance match the space. The type of stone, finish, size and format can change how the final space looks and performs.

This is where having an extensive range to choose from can make the decision easier. At Stone Depot and Stone Centre, buyers can explore different finishes, formats, sizes and thicknesses to find options that suit their project.

The options available include:

• Natural Stone Varieties– Limestone, Travertine, Marble, Granite, Slatestone, Bluestone and Sandstone
• The Formats– Pavers, tiles, French pattern, cobblestone, stepping stone, crazy pavers, treads and risers
• Finishes– Honed, Flamed, Natural Split, Antique, Sandblasted
• Edges- Tumbled, split, straight
• Thicknesses– 12 mm, 15mm, 20mm, 30mm

What Does a Trusted Stone Supplier Really Offer?

Looking at the process from start to finish makes the qualities of a trusted supplier clearer.

A supplier’s job isn’t just to hand over a stone. It’s also to proactively guide buyers away from common mistakes and to have answers ready for the questions they are likely to ask, such as:

• How will a stone perform in real conditions?
• How will it look in natural light and not just in a showroom?
• What types of finish or format are available?
• How soon can I get my order delivered?
• Do you have recurring stock availability?

Answering those questions well takes more than a price list. The right supplier should offer:

• Knowledge of materials, finishes and applications
• Choice across different natural stone products
• Samples to make the decision easier
• Quality supported by careful product selection
• Reliable supply for projects of different sizes
• Honest guidance around natural variation and product use
• Experience that can be seen in the way projects are supported

Together, these qualities help answer one important question, “Can the supplier make the process clearer from the first choice through to the final delivery?”

On the criteria above, both Stone Depot and Stone Centre position themselves as options worth shortlisting.

A Free Sample for Better Decision – Making

There is still one thing a photograph cannot replace.

The Look and Feel of the stone in person.

Natural stone can look different under changing light. Its texture and natural markings can also be difficult to understand from a screen. A sample lets buyers see these details before placing an order. They can simply place it next to the existing flooring, walling or furniture to see how it looks in the actual space.

This small step can make a big difference when buyers are choosing stone for a long-term project. Both Stone Depot and Stone Centre provide a free sample option, giving buyers a chance to see the stone in person before placing the order.

Quality Is More Than a Word on a Product Page

Once the material has been chosen, quality becomes the next consideration. A photograph or sample can show what a stone looks like. However, it cannot show how carefully it was selected or sourced.

That is where the right supplier matters who brings clear product information on the table to help buyers make an informed decision about the purchase. Pre and post-order support matters too. Questions can come up before an order is placed and even after the stone arrives. Stone Depot and Stone Centre provide useful information throughout the process that can make the experience more straightforward.

A Stronger Start with the Right Supplier

Choosing natural stone is one thing. Knowing where to source it and what to expect along the way is another. The right supplier can make that part of the process hassle free.

This is where Stone Depot comes in, an Australian natural stone wholesaler with more than 40 years of experience in the industry. Since 1984, the business has supplied natural stone for commercial, large-scale and residential projects across Australia. The range includes pavers, tiles, walling, cobblestones and other natural stone products. With warehouses in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, Stone Depot supplies stones Australia-wide.

Stone Centre is another long-standing name, having supplied natural stone across Australia since 1989. Its range includes pavers, tiles, pool coping, cobblestones, stepping stones and walling in materials such as Travertine, Limestone, Marble, Granite, Bluestone, Slatestone and Sandstone. With warehouses in the same three cities and Australia-wide delivery, it gives buyers access to a wide choice of products.

Why the Supplier Matters as Much as the Stone

As one of the leading suppliers, Stone Depot and Stone Centre come up with material expertise, supply chain and provide FREE Samples to help you make an informed choice. There are colours to compare, textures to explore and finishes that can change the feel of a room or outdoor area.

“Quality stone matters but knowing who stands behind it matters too.”

Your Next Step? Start With the Supplier, Then the Stone

Shortlisting a supplier is worth doing before shortlisting a material. Compare what each one actually stocks, how much detail they publish about finishes, formats and thicknesses and how easily a sample can be had. The stone is the part that gets looked at for the next twenty years. The supplier is the part that determines whether it arrives the way it looked on screen.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is to the best of our knowledge and intended as a general guide. We recommend confirming all details based on your specific project requirements before execution.

The post Before You Buy Natural Stone, Choose a Trusted Supplier appeared first on Completehome.

 View our Create the look flyer- Seamless Garage Design

Weathertex can be applied to both major garage door types, but each presents slightly different considerations for the fabricator and the cladding system.

While most garage door typologies can be clad, success depends on the door’s trajectory, clearance paths, and the capacity of the mechanical operator to handle the added dead load.

Four faces.
Endless expressions.

The profile you choose defines the character of your garage door just as much as the colour. Weathertex offers four surface profiles suited to garage door applications — from razor-clean smooth to richly textured horizontal courses. Here’s how each one performs on the street.

Key Considerations for Your Specification

Weight and Hardware Sizing

Standard residential garage door motors and springs may not handle the weight of the extra cladding. The underlying frame must be verified by the manufacturer to carry the additional dead load of the cladding (9.7kg per square metre).

• Single Car Door (2.4m x 2.1m): Adds approximately 50kg
  to the door.
• Double Car Door (4.8m x 2.1m): Adds approximately 100kg
  to the door.
• Design Requirement: Ensure the cladding weight is distributed
  evenly across the frame. An unbalanced door will cause tracks to warp and premature motor failure

Coastal and High-Humidity Environments

Weathertex performs well in coastal locations, but the paint system becomes especially important. A high-quality acrylic exterior paint with strong UV and salt resistance is required. Weathertex technical can advise on approved paint systems for your specific exposure category. Repainting intervals may be shorter in direct ocean-facing or tropical locations, typically 8–10 years rather than 12–15 years for sheltered inland sites.

Head & Perimeter Management

Head Flashing: Install a structural Z-flashing at the top of the door opening, fixed directly to the wall frame above. When the door is closed, this creates an effective “drip
edge” over the top of the door cladding, preventing water
from penetrating the header gap.

Side Flashings: Detail L-flashings or custom-folded J-mould profiles to conceal cut ends and protect the product core from weather exposure. Maintain a minimum 10mm clearance gap between the side flashings and the door jamb to prevent binding during the operating cycle.

Safety Sensors: Ensure the added profile depth of the cladding and flashings does not obstruct the infrared safety beams located along the base of the door tracks.

Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) Ratings

If your project site has a designated BAL rating, confirm suitability with Weathertex and your building certifier before specifying. Weathertex products are suitalbe for BAL-19. if you need to achieve a higher BAL-rating, FSA fire-coat can be used on pre-primed products under paint.

Threshold & Base Protection

The bottom edge of the door is the most vulnerable point for mechanical impact and moisture wicking.

Ground Clearance: Maintain a minimum 20mm clearance between the bottom edge of the cladding and the finished driveway surface to mitigate ground-water wicking and protect the edge.

Weather Seal: Attach a heavy-duty rubber P-seal or bulb seal to the underside of the door frame behind the cladding. Ensure the profile details maintain a clear gap between the cladding and the seal rail so moisture is not trapped against the material.

Movement and Jointing on Sectional Doors

Sectional doors flex at hinge lines with every cycle. Panel edges at flex points require careful detailing, panels must be sized and fixed so hinge movement doesn’t impose stress on edges or cause paint cracking at joints over time. Ask your garage door supplier to show completed sectional door examples before proceeding.

Fixing & Vibration

Mechanical Fasteners: Secure Weathertex panels directly to the garage door frame using appropriate threaded screws suitable for the frame material and high-movement, exterior applications. Nails or brads are not suitable.

Vibration Isolation: To absorb operational vibration and prevent rattling, install an elastomeric or rubber isolation strip between the cladding and the frame. Alternatively, specify a low modulus polyurethane sealant to assist in adhering the cladding and dampening movement.

Binding Prevention: For sectional timber boards, detail a small back-bevel to the edges to prevent binding when the panels rotate.

Maintenance

A correctly painted Weathertex garage door requires minimal upkeep. Wash annually with mild detergent and water to remove grime and salt residue. Inspect paint edges and joints each year, touch up promptly at any sign of film cracking or lifting to prevent moisture ingress. With correct installation and a quality paint system, Weathertex panels typically perform 10–15 years before a full repaint is warranted.

The post Beyond the Roller Door: Cladding Your Garage with Weathertex appeared first on Completehome.

Words: Karen Booth

It should go without saying that a front garden’s design must complement your home’s architectural style, provide for your practical needs, and make a good first impression. To achieve this, you need to:

Make it functional

Functionality is paramount. You want garden paths and entry steps that take you safely to the front door, whether from the driveway or garden gate. This means no overhanging foliage from trees, no awkward turns, and level paths and steps that are wide enough for two people.

Keep it neat

Most front gardens are permanently on show so you might want to make it as easy to maintain as possible as an overgrown garden quickly becomes a neighbourhood eyesore. But if you like to garden, you can use manicured plants, perhaps clipped into spheres, for visual interest and contrast.

Light your way

Outdoor lighting provides security, and it allows garden paths and steps to be safely negotiated. One option is bollard path lighting that can be sensor-activated for convenience. Mood lighting, such as uplighting to trees or feature planting, can enhance the look of the house and garden.

Add some privacy

Privacy is a priority for many, and it can be achieved in various ways, from screening plants to high walls. Solid walls are often a popular choice in urban areas where a walled entry courtyard can provide security and a private space for entertaining.

Define your borders

If all you want to do is clearly define your boundaries, then opt for simple, easy-care garden beds or low hedges. For the latter, choose a hardy hedging plant with a compact growth habit. For garden beds, strappy, drought-tolerant plants are ideal.

Include a focal point

A focal point is an asset, but don’t cram your garden with decorative pieces. Rather than have a mass of distracting elements, a single water feature or sculpture, maybe a pair of urns, will make more impact and draw the eye to where you want it to go.

The post Making an entrance appeared first on Completehome.

In May 1998 the last concrete roof tile had been laid on a new architecturally designed home amidst the bushlands in Coatesville, New Zealand.  Homeowner Warren and his family had planned for this to be their home for the coming decades and each material choice was carefully considered.  However, Warren didn’t anticipate the drama that would unfold over the coming years, leading to a complete reroof of his home. Fortunately, Gerard had the lightweight solution to give Warren a roof that will last.

The 285m² house was designed to complement the breathtaking natural surrounds, utilising natural cedar and schist as a feature of the exterior cladding, adding texture and warmth.  Taking inspiration from a neighbouring property, flat concrete roof tiles were chosen, with its appearance mimicking a slate roof.

When Roofing Problems Emerged

Approximately 10 years after the roof was installed, the first issues arose. It started with the pointing coming out of the gable and bargeboard details, allowing birds to creep under the roof and nest in the roof cavity.  At extra cost, repairs were made to the roof to try and fix these issues.  Then the roof started leaking under wind driven rain.

In certain conditions, the roof window overlooking the kitchen would leak and leaks also appeared around a few other unique flashings.  More repairs – and added cost – were undertaken until it became obvious that repairs were not going to solve the root cause: The tiles were no longer providing protection against water ingress. So, the decision was made to reroof the property.

Warren says of the decision “It’s regretful – I never thought I’d have to replace a roof in my lifetime. I also own a property in Devonport and its roof is 90 years old and it’s still ok.  But that’s an old metal roof, and to have a roof that I’ve done in May ‘98 and replacing it already is a bit of a contrast”.  The search was on to find a roofing solution that not only fit the aesthetic of the home, but also provided long-term performance so he wouldn’t need to reroof again in his lifetime.

Introducing Gerard Calibre

Gerard’s new roof profile, Calibre, caught Warren’s eye, with its horizontal panelling best complementing the style of the existing cladding.  The lightweight steel panel system features Concealed Fastening (CF) technology, made up of an interlocking design which adds strength to the roof, while hiding fasteners from view providing clean lines without interruption.  The staggered installation, CF design, and concealed weather channels culminate in a stylish and high performing roof.

Warren was delighted with a solution that came in a wide variety of colours, backed by a well-known manufacturer.  “Gerard products are known for their paint durability, and I was satisfied that Gerard have long established place in the roofing industry in New Zealand.” Warren explains.

A Stronger, Lighter Roofing Solution

Aside from aesthetics, the durability and performance of the paint was critical due to the house being on a rainwater tank.  The degradation of the concrete tiles led to many issues, Warren explains “The roof always looked wet, it had a large amount of moss. In the off season when the moss dried up on the lower edge of the tiles, it would fill the spouting with sludge. Then the birds would come and eat the moss, it caused all sorts of problems.”

Apart from clogging the spouting, those problems included the family contracting campylobacter from a dead bird in the roof system, which laid the family out for weeks.  With Calibre, being on a rainwater tank is no issue, as testing on Gerard’s roof coatings has proven the coatings to be aligned with Australian and New Zealand standards for rainwater collection (AS/NZS 4020).

And switching from a concrete roof to a metal panel roof had extra benefits.  The lightweight construction meant Warren could sleep easy at night with around 7 times less weight above the family’s heads while still maintaining the longevity and durability needed for the roof.  The panel design results in a high strength-to-weight ratio, creating a robust matrix that is able to withstand challenging winds and heavy impacts.

Warren wanted to be very hands-on throughout the reroof process and with his background in engineering and a thorough understanding of construction, it was important for him to work with a team and a manufacturer he could trust.  And Gerard fit the bill.

With his decision made, Warren contracted the Gerard Roofing Centre (GRC) to complete the reroof on his home, using the new Calibre profile in the colour Ebony. The old concrete roof had a few more unpleasant surprises in store though.  When the GRC team started removing tiles from the roof, it quickly became apparent that the structure underneath wasn’t in a suitable condition to leave in place.

The heavy weight of the concrete tiles had caused the trusses to sag and become uneven, requiring new trusses to be erected before the new roof could go on.  Once the new trusses were in place, the Calibre installation began.  Warren worked closely with Scott Caskey, GRC Manager, who was onsite to work with Warren throughout the reroof process.

The difference between the old roof and the new roof is stark.  Calibre’s clean, sharp lines lend an illusion of a modern slate-type roof, while the UV-stable paint gives the roof a sleek aesthetic.  Despite the challenges in reroofing his home, Warren is thrilled with the results, “Gerard rose to all the challenges with this roof.  They overcame them after consultation with me, working through solutions and options.  We got a great result, and the finished product speaks for itself.”

Roofing Installer: GRC

Roofing Manufacturer: Gerard

Profile: Calibre in the colour Ebony

The post Architectural Home Saved with Calibre appeared first on Completehome.

Keeping it green

Individuals looking to add value to their property often take the time to incorporate in-ground trampolines into their garden design, creating a zone through shield planting and hedging. Mr Trampoline’s green string bounce beds are not only coated with all-weather, UV stable, rubber-based paint to withstand the Australian climate, but they also integrate into a garden more naturally than traditional black or blue options.

There’s always room

From large lawns to cosy courtyards, trampolines are being installed in all sorts of spaces. Although Olympic standard sizes provide the ultimate performance,

Mr Trampoline also offers mini trampolines (a little over one-square-metre) for active young gymnasts.

No matter the surface

Many consider in-ground to be the best and safest option and these are mostly landscaped into lawn areas. However, above-ground trampolines can be made stable on any surface and are a great choice if you want to move it from time to time, or are expecting to move properties. They can even be built into timber decks!

Quality matters

Mr Trampoline has been working hard for years to make an enduring, premium product that facilitates the ultimate bounce. The experience of countless consumers buying the cheaper ‘toy’ models, which are not manufactured in Australia, has shown they lack durability and invariably end up as landfill. People are realising that a well made, in-ground trampoline is an investment that can add value to your family home in more ways than one.

For more information

Mr Trampoline

The post Mr Trampoline: Built to Bounce. Made to Last. appeared first on Completehome.

Handcrafted in New Zealand, Stoked Stainless Plunge Pools create a dedicated space to switch off, recharge and enjoy every season. Combining the refreshing feel of a pool with the comfort of a spa, they bring relaxation, connection and wellbeing closer to home.

Available in sizes from 2.5m x 2m to 6m x 2m, the range suits everything from compact courtyards to expansive outdoor entertaining areas. In summer, enjoy a cooling escape. In winter, settle into a restorative soak with water temperatures ranging from 5-41°C.

Crafted from 316L Marine Grade Stainless Steel and finished with natural cedar, every pool is built to stand the test of time. Clean lines and considered design allow each one to integrate effortlessly into its surroundings.

Simple above-ground installation means less complication and more time enjoying the moments that matter.

For more information

Stoked Stainless

The post Handmade for life. Designed to be enjoyed for generations. appeared first on Completehome.

Kaynemaile RE/8 is an architectural screening solution that responds to the Queensland climate by guarding your home against excessive heat gain, providing interior comfort without compromise to airflow, views and a vital connection between the indoors and out. It’s sleek interlocking rings are made from an engineering grade polycarbonate that is incredibly lightweight, durable and can be manufactured without size limitations.

This beautiful home in Brisbane’s northern suburbs showcases how effectively the mesh can be incorporated into residential architecture. Flexible rather than rigid, the mesh can easily follow the desired radius of the steel hanging system and is secured to the required floor attachments to maintain its form.

The strength of Kaynemaile’ s solar protection comes from its three-dimensional shape, which means a part of the building behind is always in shade. Additionally, unlike conventional metal-mesh products, Kaynemaile is a material that won’t hold onto heat, nor radiate it back into the building; even after hours in the sun it’s still comfortable to touch.

With this residence’s beautiful, curved gardens, and inviting pool area, it’s no wonder the homeowner looked for a product that doesn’t obstruct the views from inside out. Meanwhile, from the outside looking in the façade is less visually transparent and thus perfectly suited to privacy screening, providing residents with an added level of daytime privacy without compromising their outlook from within.

Kaynemaile RE/8 in custom ‘Coffee Bean’ colour is not just a standout feature aesthetically for this home, its functional qualities bring a notion of smart design, considerate of climate requirements and building with longevity in mind.

To learn more about the features and benefits of RE/8 visit  Austaron Surfaces

The post Solar Protection has never looked so good appeared first on Completehome.

Weathertex products are manufactured from natural Australian hardwood fibres and are non-hazardous in their intact form. However, like any timber-based product, cutting, sanding or machining Weathertex boards generates fine wood dust that should be managed appropriately.

Why Safe Cutting Matters

Machining timber products creates fine airborne dust particles. Prolonged exposure to wood dust can irritate the eyes, nose, throat and skin, and may affect the respiratory system. Following appropriate safety practices significantly reduces these risks.

The good news is that with the right equipment and work practices, Weathertex products can be cut safely and efficiently.

Australian Standards for Safe Cutting

When cutting Weathertex cladding, it’s important to follow safe work practices that align with relevant Australian Standards and workplace health and safety requirements.

Key standards include:

• AS/NZS 1716 – Respiratory Protective Devices: Specifies the performance requirements for respiratory protective equipment, including P2 respirators used to reduce exposure to fine wood dust.
• AS/NZS 1715 – Selection, Use and Maintenance of Respiratory Protective Equipment: Provides guidance on selecting the appropriate respirator, ensuring correct fit, and maintaining respiratory protection throughout its service life.
• Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations: Require employers and workers to eliminate or minimise exposure to airborne contaminants, including wood dust, by using engineering controls such as local exhaust ventilation, dust extraction and appropriate personal protective equipment wherever reasonably practicable.

Use Dust Extraction Whenever Possible

The most effective way to minimise dust exposure is to capture it at the source.

When cutting or machining Weathertex boards:

• Use power tools fitted with dust extraction systems or dust bags.
• If using stationary machinery, ensure it is connected to an effective dust extraction system.
• Work in a well-ventilated area to help disperse any remaining airborne dust.

Reducing dust not only improves visibility while working but also helps create a cleaner and safer job site.

Keep Your Work Area Clean

Good housekeeping plays an important role in workplace safety.

After cutting:

• Vacuum, shovel or sweep up wood dust regularly to prevent it from accumulating.
• Dispose of offcuts and dust responsibly in accordance with local waste disposal requirements.
• Avoid allowing dust to enter drains or waterways.

If Dust Causes Irritation

If dust enters your eyes, flush them with clean running water for at least 15 minutes. If inhalation causes persistent coughing or breathing difficulties, leave the dusty area and seek medical advice if symptoms continue. Skin irritation should be washed with mild soap and water.

Store Products Correctly

Store Weathertex boards in a dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources, sparks and open flames. While Weathertex products are difficult to ignite, good storage practices help maintain product quality and reduce unnecessary safety risks.

Safe Cutting Starts with Good Preparation

Safe cutting isn’t complicated,it simply comes down to preparation, using the correct PPE, controlling dust and maintaining a clean workspace.

By following these straightforward practices, you’ll protect yourself while ensuring your Weathertex installation runs smoothly from start to finish.

For more detailed health and safety information, always refer to the latest Weathertex Safety Data Sheet before commencing work.

The post Best Practices for Cutting Weathertex Cladding appeared first on Completehome.

Pre-Primed Woodsman VS Natural

Our Pre-primed woodsman products and natural products have the same timber surface texture. They both have a natural timber grain that provides unique appearance with the characteristics and looks of timber. The pre-primed woodsman must be painted and the natural products can be stained or left unsealed allowing it to grey off (see installation manual for further details). Pre-primed products have a 25 year manufacturer’s warranty vs Natural Products with a 10 year warranty (conditions apply see installation manual).

Painting Pre-primed VS Staining Natural

Painting Pre-primed Weathertex products provides a solid, opaque finish. It also provides excellent protection against moisture and UV radiation, which helps to prolong the life of the product. Paint is available in a wide variety of colours, and you can choose a colour that complements your home’s design. Weathertex products are low VOC which when used with low VOC paint are safer for your family home.

On the other hand, staining Weathertex products can bring out the natural grain and texture of the timber, creating a more natural look. Quality Stains are available in a range of colours, from light to darker tones, allowing you to achieve the desired look for your project. Staining can also protect the timber from moisture and UV radiation, but it may not be as durable as paint in terms of withstanding the elements. Controlled erosion stains are available to achieve a light timber colour that compliments a ‘beachy’ style.

Maintenance

Our pre-primed cladding products require 7-15+ years maintenance dependant on the choice of paint.

Weathertex natural products will on average require 3-5 years’ maintenance, depending on the choice of stain. The original colour can be restored after natural fading by cleaning and staining the product (further information available on our natural flyer).

Whether you have chosen painting pre-primed or Staining natural a yearly inspection is recommended to confirm the coatings integrity. You may need to apply additional coats or touch up/repairs depending on your inspection and personal preference. Each manufacturer has their own timeframe for maintenance, so it’s important to do some research before choosing.

When deciding between painting and staining your Weathertex products, consider your personal preferences and the environmental conditions the products will be exposed to. Your choice of Weathertex product comes down to your own design aesthetic and ultimately it is your choice!

If you’re unsure about which option to choose, you may want to consult with your professional painter if you are using them or a trained professional for advice. For more information about Painting or Staining your Weathertex products, refer to our Installation Manuals and painting and staining section on the Weathertex website.

The post Pre-primed VS Natural Products appeared first on Completehome.

Words: Karen Booth

Green walls and vertical gardens offer a host of benefits. To begin with, they allow you to introduce plant life into small outdoor spaces. If you don’t have room for a ground-level garden, you can attach a garden to your courtyard wall or the exterior of your house. What’s more, they reduce the ambient temperature in their immediate surrounds, clean the air and encourage biodiversity, making them eco-friendly.

More of us are living in apartments and townhouses with just the tiniest of spaces to grow a garden, so it’s not a surprise that gardening on walls has become popular. Vertical gardens allow us to grow plants to brighten our lives or spice up our dinner plates, even when challenged for space.

Edible or ornamental

A vertical garden lends itself to a variety of uses and the plants you choose will depend on whether the garden is to be ornamental or edible. Plant selection will also be influenced by the amount of natural light the location receives, the microclimate and the plant’s inherent ability to thrive off the ground.

Wall gardens do have the advantage of keeping the roots of plants warmer in cold weather, so if you’re planning on planting herbs or salad vegetables, you can grow your basil for longer in autumn, for instance. Wall gardens are also a great way to keep invasive plants, such as mints, under control.

Of course, vertical gardens don’t have to be filled with edible plants. They can include succulents, bromeliads, tropical foliage plants and a variety of flowering species.

Planting suggestions

If the idea of a kitchen garden appeals, then hardy herbs such as thyme, sage, oregano and rosemary are perfect, especially for the upper part of your green wall as they don’t need as much water as other varieties. Golden marjoram, tarragon and chives are some other reliable options.

To create a decorative effect, succulents such as echeveria, sedum and crassula, can look incredible. If you’re not overly keen on a lot of maintenance, or live in a dry climate, then liriope and small hebe varieties can work well, depending on the microclimate. Plants with water-holding stems and leaves, such as begonia, pelargonium, peperomia and columnea, are also a good idea. Plants with water-holding roots, such as mondo grass and philodendron, are other great choices.

Custom or ready-made

There are companies that specialise in the installation, planting and maintenance of customised green walls and vertical gardens. And many landscapers now have expertise in this arena too, so be sure to ask.

There are also many readily-available DIY systems, some of which feature a metal frame (either freestanding or wall-mounted) and hook-on pots. Then there are modular versions where the pots are already integrated into a screen that you attach to your wall. If you want something on a smaller scale, there are ready-to-hang fabric systems, such as Verti-Plant and Woolly Pockets. Of course, these are just a few examples of the diverse array of DIY vertical garden systems on offer.

The practicalities

A vertical garden will need maintenance. In fact, it may need more than a conventional garden. A small vertical garden, a few pots in a frame or a simple fabric system, won’t require much more upkeep than a hanging plant would, but large customised green walls can be complex creations in need of a lot of nurturing, so may need expert care.

It’s not just the “after” you might need expert help with, however; especially if the goal is to establish a sizeable green wall on a deck, terrace or apartment balcony. You will need to determine if the wall and floor are able to bear the load (add water to plants and growing media, and things can get heavy). Also, is the wall waterproofed? Is the floor? Where will any water overflow go? But with planning and expert advice, vertical gardens are great space-saver.

The post Up the wall appeared first on Completehome.