« General Discussions

Living walls in most cases require a significant amount of water especially if you are planting perennials and other herbasceous plant materials in lieu of succulents and other drought resistant plants typically found on greenroofs. Most of the soil based and synthetic or bio based containment cells rely on a consistent and even moisture supply often not sufficient with just natural rainfall alone.

Using drip tubing for supplemental irrigation is the most common practice and depending on the size of the living walls that needs to be watered and the local building codes the irrigation assembly can be tied into either a rainwater harvesting or greywater system. Some of my clients still elect to tie into potable lines but that is not preferred. In addition, these systems if small enough can be tied into a hose bib as long as the pressure is adequate and devices such as backflow preventers and pressure regulators are used. Additional devices such as timers or soil moisture sensors are encouraged so that the plants moisture requirements are met. I would highly discourage the used of watering by hand especially for walls that are over 8' in height because an even water coverage will not be met.

This system below called out by G-Sky is an example of how this system would be designed based on the number of panels selected. It is important that the manufacturer signs off on and approves any shop drawings that might be prepared by the contractor prior to the installation of the irrigation system especially if the living wall comes with a warranty on the products. If you have any questions when designing or installing your living wall system or irrigation we would be pleased to offer assistance.