When it comes to commissioning a living wall our clients want to know they are getting something that will thrive for years to come. There are many factors that go into creating a resilient living wall such as plant choice, proper irrigation and a good maintenance regime. But the importance of choosing the right growing media cannot be overstated.
Biotecture have been using Grodan in our hydroponic BioPanel living wall system for 15 years because we believe it’s simply the best medium for vertical growing. Here’s why:
The Soil Conundrum
While the idea of growing with soil seems natural, it poses challenges, especially in non-natural, thin substrate locations like commercial greenhouses and vertical green walls. Soil, in such environments, lacks the self-regulatory systems found in natural landscapes, leading to a decline in its ability to promote plant growth over time. Enter Grodan, a hydrophilic porous material developed over 50 years ago explicitly for thin substrates, revolutionizing commercial greenhouse horticulture.
Grodan: A Sustainable Solution
Grodan, a horticultural grade of Rockwool, has become the substrate of choice for large-scale commercial growers, including industry leaders like Thanet Earth. Its hydrophilic nature, dimensional stability, and predictability make it a superior choice for thin substrate applications. With a pore volume of 97%, Grodan retains moisture efficiently and ensures an oxygen-rich environment vital for healthy root growth. Moreover, it is 100% recyclable, contributing to its status as an environmentally-friendly option.
Biotecture’s Journey with Grodan
Biotecture’s founders recognised the limitations of soil early in the product development journey and turned to hydroponics. After experimenting with various materials, Grodan emerged as the substrate of choice due to its dimensional stability and proven success in Scandinavian roof gardens for over 25 years. Biotecture’s patented BioPanel living wall system, incorporating Grodan, ensures a predictable and balanced rootzone, providing the foundation for the longevity of their green walls. We plant up the Grodan Panels in our nursery and allow the plants to fully mature before being installed onsite.
Maintenance and Longevity
As living walls mature, Grodan reduces the need for plant replacements. Biotecture’s maintenance approach focuses on ecological progression, allowing for a reduction in plant density while enhancing the overall health and aesthetic of the living wall. This unique approach, coupled with Grodan’s attributes, results in living walls that can thrive for over a decade with minimal inputs.
Living wall at New Street Square, installed in 2011 and still being maintained by Biotecture.
Grodan Benefits: A Recap
In summary, the use of Grodan in thin substrates offers several key benefits crucial for the longevity of living walls:
- Dimensional Stability: Grodan maintains its structure over time, providing a firm anchor for roots and ensuring oxygen availability.
- Predictable Performance: The hydrophilic nature of Grodan guarantees consistent water retention and oxygen-rich root zones, promoting resilience.
- Chemical Balance: Grodan’s inert composition allows precise control of nutrient delivery, avoiding nutrient lock-on issues associated with soil.
- Non combustable: Grodan is non-combustible and does not pose a fire hazard.
The right growing media is a linchpin in ensuring the longevity and health of these living ecosystems. Biotecture’s commitment to ecological progression and Grodan’s proven performance herald a green future where sustainable design and maintenance practices go hand in hand, creating vibrant urban landscapes that stand the test of time.
