Turn plastic bottle waste into a worthy vertical garden

PLASTIC waste is currently threatening natural vegetation worldwide and also polluting land, rivers, coastlines, beaches and oceans.

But by collecting empty plastic water bottles and following three basic steps, one can create one’s own beautiful and trendy vertical garden.

Not only will one be aiding the environment, but vertical gardens can be set up anywhere without any fuss.
Follow these easy three steps to turn your waste into worth.

Step 1: Collect bottles

Plastic bottles come in a variety of sizes and colours. Select the bottles and colours that suit what you want to achieve. Stick to one colour and bottle type for a uniform and structured look or combine colours, shapes and sizes for a more abstract look.

Step 2: Cut and prepare bottles

Rinse the bottles and remove all labels before starting. Use a sharp blade or standing knife to cut out a piece wide enough to allow the plant to grow. Make sure there is a deep base so the plant’s roots are able to thrive in the soil. Punch holes in the sides of the bottle and thread string through, tying a knot where needed, so the bottom of each bottle rests securely.

Step 3: Fill bottles

Use a variety of plants to fill one’s vertical garden, keeping in mind to choose plants that require similar sun exposure and grow at similar rates.

Plant ‘flexibility’ needs to be considered in terms of how they fall, as the garden is vertical.
Vertical gardens also become dry, so use potting soil, which will ensure that the garden retains water and nutrients.

Plants that require less water, should be planted at the top of the vertical garden, since the area tends to dry more quickly.

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