Create Your Own Enchanting Animal Plant Wall: A Step-by-Step Guide

My Animal Plant Wall: A Whimsical Green Oasis

Creating a living wall is a fantastic way to bring nature indoors, adding a touch of greenery and freshness to any space. But why settle for a regular plant wall when you can create a whimsical and enchanting animal-themed display? This article will guide you through the process, offering inspiration and tips to help you design your own captivating animal plant wall.

Planning Your Animal Plant Wall

Before you start, consider the following:

• Space: Determine the size of your wall. This will dictate how many plants and animal planters you can accommodate.
• Lighting: Assess the amount of natural light the wall receives. Choose plants that thrive in those conditions. If necessary, incorporate supplemental lighting.
• Style: Decide on a theme or aesthetic. You can opt for a cohesive look with similar animal planters or create a diverse and eclectic collection.
• Maintenance: Consider the watering and care requirements of your chosen plants. Choose plants that match your lifestyle and commitment to plant care.

Choosing Your Plants

Selecting the right plants is crucial for the success of your animal plant wall. Here are some plant suggestions based on different light conditions:

• Low Light:
  • ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): A resilient plant that tolerates low light and infrequent watering.
  • Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata): Another low-maintenance option that thrives in low light and requires minimal watering.
• Bright, Indirect Light:
  • Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): A popular choice that produces baby plants (spiderettes) that can be easily propagated.
  • String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus): A trailing succulent with unique, pearl-like leaves.
  • Kalanchoe: These succulents offer colorful blooms and are relatively easy to care for.
• Direct Sunlight:
  • Cactus Succulents: These hardy plants thrive in bright, sunny locations and require minimal watering.
  • Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii): A flowering succulent with vibrant blooms and spiky stems.

Remember to consider the growth habits of your plants. Choose trailing plants to add a cascading effect, succulents for their unique textures, and flowering plants for pops of color.

Selecting Your Animal Planters

The centerpiece of your animal plant wall will be the animal planters. Here are some ideas:

• 3D-Printed Planters: These offer a wide range of customization options. You can find designs online or create your own, allowing you to choose the animal shapes, sizes, and colors that best suit your theme.
• Ceramic Planters: Ceramic planters can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your display.
• Upcycled Planters: Get creative and upcycle existing items into planters, such as teacups, small animal figurines, or old toys.

When selecting planters, consider the size and shape of the plants you intend to use. Make sure the planters have drainage holes to prevent overwatering and root rot.

Bringing it all together

1. Prepare the Wall: Clean the wall surface and ensure it’s ready for mounting. Consider the weight of your plant wall when choosing mounting hardware. You might use a sturdy trellis, shelving, or individual hooks.
2. Arrange the Planters: Before planting, arrange the animal planters on the wall to visualize the final design. Experiment with different layouts and placements until you achieve the desired aesthetic.
3. Plant Your Plants: Fill each planter with appropriate potting mix. Gently remove the plants from their nursery pots and place them in their new homes. Water thoroughly after planting.
4. Install the Wall: Once you’re satisfied with the arrangement, carefully mount the planters to the wall. Ensure they are securely fastened and level.
5. Add Lighting: Supplement natural light with artificial lighting, especially in shadier areas. Consider using grow lights or spotlights to highlight your animal plant wall.

Case Study: The Animal Plant Wall

Here’s an example to illustrate how this concept can come to life:

• Foster the Duck: Housing a Raven ZZ plant. The ZZ plant’s tolerance for low light makes it an excellent choice for areas that don’t receive much sunlight.
• Ahab the Whale: Home to a Spider Plant. This plant’s adaptability makes it a great addition to any plant wall.
• Spark the Squirrel: Filled with a Cactus Succulent. Cacti are low-maintenance and add a touch of desert flair.
• Paw Paw the ScrambleMan: Showcasing a String of Pearls. The String of Pearls adds a cascading effect.
• Hootie the Owl: Filled with a Lola Succulent. Succulents provide interesting textures and colors.
• Mac the Blowfish: Displaying a Fire Barrel Cactus. This cactus provides unique shapes and visual interest.
• Axel Rose the Axolotl: Housing a Magenta Kalanchoe. Kalanchoes offer colorful blooms.
• Sean the Dragon: Featuring a Red Crown of Thorns. The Crown of Thorns adds drama and color.
• Harper the Seal: Displaying a White Kalanchoe. Similar to the Magenta Kalanchoe, it provides a different color.

Maintaining Your Animal Plant Wall

• Watering: Water your plants regularly, following their specific watering needs. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. Be careful not to overwater, and ensure proper drainage.
• Lighting: Adjust the lighting as needed to provide adequate light for your plants. Rotate the plants occasionally to ensure even growth.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize your plants during the growing season (spring and summer) to promote healthy growth and blooms. Follow the fertilizer’s instructions for application rates.
• Pruning: Trim any dead or yellowing leaves to keep your plants looking their best. Prune trailing plants to maintain their desired shape and encourage fullness.
• Pest Control: Regularly inspect your plants for pests and diseases. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate insecticides or fungicides.

Conclusion

Creating an animal plant wall is a rewarding project that allows you to express your creativity and bring the beauty of nature into your home. With careful planning, the right plants, and charming animal planters, you can transform any space into a whimsical and enchanting green oasis that will delight both you and your guests. So, gather your supplies, unleash your imagination, and embark on this exciting gardening adventure. Your very own animal plant wall awaits!