A facade garden is a narrow planting strip against the facade along the pavement, where a few paving stones are replaced with planting. This form of urban greening brings green back into the street, even where there is no front garden. The strip is usually only thirty to fifty centimetres wide, but makes a noticeable contribution to a greener, cooler and more pleasant living environment.
Application
For a facade garden, one or two rows of paving stones directly against the facade are removed. Climbing plants, perennials or shrubs are planted in the exposed strip of soil. Climbing plants such as ivy or clematis can grow up the facade and thus form a green wall. Municipalities often encourage facade gardens because they let rainwater soak away better, reduce heat stress in the city and attract insects and birds. They also beautify the street and the facade itself.
Application details
A facade garden requires little space and maintenance, but delivers a lot: cooling, water retention and biodiversity. It is important that the planting does not grow directly against the masonry or plinth, to avoid moisture problems. A narrow maintenance-free edge or border keeps the garden tidy and protects the foot of the facade.
Related terms
- Facade
- Plinth
- Brick
- Damp-proof base course
- Gutter
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