Greening Up Your Walls: A Guide to Wall Shrubs

Are you tired of looking at blank walls in your home or garden? Want to add some color and life to your living space? Look no further than wall shrubs! These versatile plants can be trained to grow along walls, fences, and trellises, adding texture, color, and character to any outdoor space. In this guide, we’ll explore the world of wall shrubs, from how to choose the right plants to creative ways to display them. Let’s get ed!

Choosing the Right Plants

Before you begin planting your wall of shrubs, it’s important to choose the right plants for your space. Here are some factors to consider:

Climate and Sun Exposure

Different shrubs thrive in different climates and sun exposure levels. For example, if your wall gets full sun, you may want to consider plants like roses, clematis, or honeysuckle. If your wall is in a shady area, you could opt for ferns, hydrangeas, or even ivy.

Growth Habits

It’s also important to consider the growth habits of the plants you’re choosing. Some plants, like wisteria, can grow quite aggressively and may require regular pruning to keep them under control. Others, like boxwood, have more compact growth habits and are easier to manage.

Soil Conditions

The type of soil in your garden will also influence the plants you choose. Some plants prefer well-draining soil, while others thrive in moist or even wet conditions. Be sure to research the soil preferences of the shrubs you’re considering before planting them.

Preparing Your Wall

Once you’ve chosen your shrubs, it’s time to prepare your wall for planting. Here are some steps to follow:

Clean the Wall

Before you planting, make sure your wall is clean and free of debris. You can use a pressure washer or a stiff-bristled brush to remove any dirt or grime.

Repair Any Damage

If your wall has any cracks or damage, now is the time to fix it. Fill in any holes with spackling paste, and repair any cracks with caulk.

Add Trellises or Supports

Depending on the type of shrubs you’ve chosen, you may need to add trellises or supports to your wall. This will help the plants grow in the right direction and prevent them from sagging or drooping.

Planting Your Shrubs

Now that your wall is ready, it’s time to plant your shrubs. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Choose the Right Time

The best time to plant most wall shrubs is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and there is plenty of moisture in the soil.

Prepare the Soil

Before planting, make sure the soil is loosened and aerated. You can do this by tilling the soil or using a garden fork to loosen it up.

Add Compost or Fertilizer

To give your shrubs the best chance of success, you may want to add some compost or fertilizer to the soil. This will help provide the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy.

Plant at the Right Depth

When planting your shrubs, be sure to plant them at the right depth. The top of the root ball should be level with the soil surface.

Caring for Your Shrubs

Once your wall of shrubs is planted, it’s important to care for them properly. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Water Regularly

Most shrubs prefer consistent moisture, so be sure to water them regularly, especially during dry spells.

Prune as Needed

Depending on the growth habits of your shrubs, you may need to prune them regularly to keep them in check. Be sure to research the pruning needs of each species before getting ed.

Fertilize Annually

To keep your shrubs healthy and thriving, it’s a good idea to fertilize them once a year. This will help replenish any nutrients that have been depleted from the soil.

Creative Ways to Display Wall Shrubs

Wall shrubs don’t have to be boring! Here are some creative ways to display them in your outdoor space:

Create a Living Wall

One popular way to display wall shrubs is to create a living wall. You can do this by attaching a series of containers or planters to your wall, and filling them with soil and your favorite shrubs.

Add a Water Feature

Another creative way to display wall shrubs is to add a water feature. You could install a small fountain or pond, and then surround it with lush greenery.

Use a Trellis

If you’re short on wall space, you could try using a trellis to display your wall shrubs. This will allow them to grow vertically, creating a beautiful and unique display.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about wall shrubs:

1. Can I plant wall shrubs in containers?

Yes! In fact, planting wall shrubs in containers is a great way to create a living wall if you don’t have a lot of outdoor space.

2. How often should I water my wall shrubs?

Most wall shrubs prefer consistent moisture, so be sure to water them regularly, especially during dry spells. Aim to water them once or twice a week, depending on the weather.

3. Do wall shrubs attract bees and butterflies?

Many wall shrubs are attractive to bees and butterflies, making them a great choice for pollinator-friendly gardens.

4. What’s the best time of year to prune wall shrubs?

The best time to prune most wall shrubs is in the late winter or early spring, before new growth appears.

5. Can I grow vegetables or herbs on a wall?

Yes! You can grow a variety of vegetables and herbs on a wall, including tomatoes, cucumbers, and basil.


Wall shrubs are a fantastic way to add some greenery and color to any outdoor space. By choosing the right plants, preparing your wall properly, and caring for your shrubs, you can create a beautiful and unique living wall that will bring life to your surroundings. So why not give it a try? planning your wall of shrubs today!