Best Plants For Vertical Planter: Upward Botanicals (2024)

Welcome to Upward Botanicals, where we explore the best plants for vertical planters. If you’re looking to add a stunning visual element to your garden, vertical plants are the way to go. They not only provide height but also maximize space without taking up excessive room. Whether you have a small garden or a larger landscape, vertical gardening is a great way to create a lush and vibrant oasis.

So, what are the best plants for vertical planters? Let’s dive in and explore some top picks from different categories based on their growth habits. From tall slender trees to upright-growing shrubs, exclamation-point grasses, and vertical perennials, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover the perfect plants for your vertical garden.

Vertical plants add height and beauty to any garden space.
Tall slender trees like ‘Slender Silhouette’ sweetgum and ‘Green Arrow’ false cypress make a statement in the garden.
Upright-growing shrubs like ‘Beanpole’ English yew and ‘Gold Cone’ juniper provide strong accents.
Exclamation-point grasses like ‘Northwind’ switchgrass and ‘Peppermint Stick’ giant reed add dramatic statements.
Vertical perennials like ‘Autumn Minaret’ daylily and salvia canariensis create eye-catching contrasts.

Tall Slender Trees for Vertical Impact

When it comes to adding vertical impact to your garden, tall slender trees are an excellent choice. These trees not only provide height but also create a striking visual element that can transform any outdoor space. Here are some of the best trees for vertical planters:

‘Slender Silhouette’ Sweetgum: This popular tree can reach heights of up to 50 feet. With its columnar shape and vibrant fall foliage, it adds both structure and color to the garden.
‘Green Arrow’ False Cypress: Known for its sculptural weeping branches, this tree grows up to 20 feet tall. Its slender form and unique texture make it a standout feature in any vertical planter.
Lindsey’s Skyward™ Bald Cypress: With its compact and distinct form, this tree reaches heights of up to 20 feet. Its feathery foliage and interesting bark add visual interest throughout the year.

These tall slender trees not only provide vertical impact but also create a sense of elegance and sophistication in your garden. Their unique growth habits and stunning features make them perfect choices for vertical planters.

Tree	Height	Growth Habit
‘Slender Silhouette’ Sweetgum	Up to 50 feet	Columnar
‘Green Arrow’ False Cypress	Up to 20 feet	Weeping
Lindsey’s Skyward™ Bald Cypress	Up to 20 feet	Compact

Table: Tall Slender Trees for Vertical Impact

Table description: This table showcases the top tall slender trees for vertical planters. It includes the tree name, maximum height it can reach, and its growth habit.

Upright-Growing Shrubs for Strong Accents

Upright-growing shrubs are an excellent choice for adding strong accents to your vertical garden. These shrubs not only provide visual interest but also help create a sense of structure and height in your garden. Here are some of the best shrubs for vertical planters:

‘Beanpole’ English yew: This narrow evergreen shrub is perfect for gardens of any size. Its upright growth habit and dense foliage make it an ideal choice for vertical accents. The ‘Beanpole’ English yew is known for its versatility and ability to thrive in a variety of growing conditions.
‘Gold Cone’ juniper: With its strictly upright growth habit, the ‘Gold Cone’ juniper adds a touch of elegance to any vertical garden. Its bright yellow color remains vibrant throughout the summer, making it a standout plant in any setting.
‘Graham Blandy’ boxwood: This narrow vertical accent shrub is a great choice for small gardens. Its compact form and deer-resistant nature make it a low-maintenance option for vertical planters.

These upright-growing shrubs provide not only vertical interest but also serve as strong accents in your garden. Whether you’re looking to add structure, height, or a touch of color, these shrubs are sure to make a statement in your vertical garden.

Benefits of Upright-Growing Shrubs

Choosing upright-growing shrubs for your vertical garden comes with several benefits. First and foremost, these shrubs help create a sense of height and structure, adding visual interest to your garden. Additionally, they can act as a privacy screen, blocking unwanted views and creating a more intimate outdoor space.

“Upright-growing shrubs provide not only vertical interest but also serve as strong accents in your garden.”

Furthermore, these shrubs often have distinctive shapes and textures that can enhance the overall design of your garden. They also require minimal maintenance, making them an ideal choice for busy gardeners. With their versatility and ability to thrive in a variety of growing conditions, upright-growing shrubs are a valuable addition to any vertical garden.

Table: Best Upright-Growing Shrubs for Vertical Planters

Shrub	Growth Habit	Height	Special Features
‘Beanpole’ English yew	Narrow, upright	8-10 feet	Versatile, deer-resistant
‘Gold Cone’ juniper	Strictly upright	6-8 feet	Bright yellow foliage
‘Graham Blandy’ boxwood	Narrow, upright	4-5 feet	Deer-resistant, low-maintenance

Exclamation-Point Grasses for Dramatic Statements

When it comes to creating dramatic statements in your garden, exclamation-point grasses are an excellent choice. These vertical grasses add height, texture, and movement to any space, making them perfect for small gardens or as accent plants. Let’s explore some of the best exclamation-point grasses for vertical planters:

Tall and Compact: ‘Northwind’ Switchgrass

Scientific name: Panicum virgatum ‘Northwind’

This tall and compact switchgrass variety is known for its erect form and striking sandy yellow plumes that appear in late summer. ‘Northwind’ switchgrass can reach heights of up to 5 feet, making it a great choice for adding vertical interest to your garden. Its narrow leaves and graceful growth habit make it a visually appealing addition to any landscape.

Variegated Beauty: ‘Peppermint Stick’ Giant Reed

Scientific name: Arundo donax ‘Peppermint Stick’

‘Peppermint Stick’ giant reed is a stunning variegated grass that can grow up to 12 feet tall. Its green and white striped leaves create a vibrant and eye-catching display in the garden. This grass is hardy and low-maintenance, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners.

Majestic and Ethereal: ‘Skyracer’ Purple Moor Grass

Scientific name: Molinia caerulea ‘Skyracer’

If you’re looking for a grass that adds movement and a sense of lightness to your garden, ‘Skyracer’ purple moor grass is a fantastic option. This tall grass features elegant, see-through flower stalks that sway gracefully in the breeze. ‘Skyracer’ can grow up to 8 feet tall, creating a stunning vertical presence in any landscape.

With their unique forms and stunning visual impact, exclamation-point grasses are sure to make a statement in your vertical garden. Whether you choose the tall and compact ‘Northwind’ switchgrass, the variegated beauty of ‘Peppermint Stick’ giant reed, or the majestic and ethereal ‘Skyracer’ purple moor grass, these plants will add drama and vertical interest to your outdoor space.

Vertical Perennials for Eye-Catching Contrasts

Vertical perennials are a fantastic addition to any garden, bringing eye-catching contrasts and adding depth to the overall landscape. These tall perennials not only provide height but also create a sense of drama and visual interest. Whether you have a small vertical planter or a larger garden space, incorporating vertical perennials can transform your outdoor area into a stunning oasis.

One standout vertical perennial is the ‘Autumn Minaret’ daylily. With its towering height of up to 7 feet, this plant produces a succession of golden blooms that add a touch of elegance and beauty to any garden. Culver’s root is another excellent choice, with attractive whorls of foliage and tall spikes of tiny white to pale blue flowers. This plant adds a unique architectural element and creates a focal point in the garden.

Salvia canariensis is a vertical perennial that grows up to 7 feet and is covered with vibrant purple blooms throughout the summer. Its tall, graceful spikes are a sight to behold and attract pollinators, making it a valuable addition to any vertical garden. These tall perennials create a captivating contrast against lower-growing plants, adding depth and visual appeal.

When selecting the best perennials for vertical planters, it’s important to consider their growth habit, flowering time, and overall height. These factors will help you create a harmonious and visually striking vertical garden. Pairing different vertical perennials together can create a stunning display, with each plant showcasing its unique characteristics.

Vertical Perennial	Height	Flower Color
‘Autumn Minaret’ daylily	Up to 7 feet	Golden
Culver’s root	Varies	White to pale blue
Salvia canariensis	Up to 7 feet	Purple

Vertical perennials not only add height and visual interest but also create a sense of depth in the garden. By carefully selecting the best perennials for vertical planters, you can create a stunning display that will captivate and inspire. Experiment with different combinations and enjoy the beauty and elegance that vertical perennials bring to your outdoor space.

Benefits of Vertical Gardening

Vertical gardening offers numerous benefits for both seasoned gardeners and beginners alike. Its unique approach to growing plants in an upright manner provides a range of advantages that can enhance the gardening experience and improve overall plant health. Let’s explore some of the key benefits of vertical gardening:

Increased Yields

Vertical gardening allows gardeners to maximize their growing area and achieve higher yields. By utilizing vertical space, you can grow more plants in the same amount of ground space. This is especially beneficial for those with limited garden space or urban gardens where every inch counts. Vertical gardening is a great solution for expanding your planting options and increasing your harvest.

Plant Problems Prevention

One of the significant advantages of vertical gardening is its ability to prevent plant problems. By keeping plants off the ground and providing better air circulation, vertical gardening helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases and pests. Foliage that stays dry and well-ventilated is less susceptible to issues such as powdery mildew and rot. Vertical gardening promotes healthier plants and minimizes the need for chemical intervention.

Healthier Growth

Vertical gardening promotes healthier growth for plants. When plants are grown vertically, they have better access to sunlight and air, which are essential for photosynthesis and respiration. This optimal exposure to light and air circulation results in stronger stems, larger leaves, and overall robust plant development. With vertical gardening, plants can thrive and reach their full potential.

Easier Gardening

Vertical gardening offers the convenience of easier maintenance and harvesting. By elevating the plants, you can minimize bending or kneeling, reducing strain on your back and knees. This makes tasks such as watering, pruning, and harvesting more comfortable and accessible. Vertical gardening also allows for better organization and visibility of plants, making it easier to monitor their health and address any issues promptly.

As you can see, vertical gardening has numerous benefits that make it an attractive option for gardeners of all skill levels. It not only increases yields and prevents plant problems but also promotes healthier growth and offers easier maintenance. Whether you have limited garden space or simply want to add a unique element to your landscape, vertical gardening is a versatile and rewarding approach to cultivating plants.

Choosing the Right Plants for Vertical Gardening

When it comes to vertical gardening, selecting the right plants is essential for success. Vining plants are ideal for vertical structures as they can be trained to grow upwards, utilizing the vertical space effectively. These plants, such as ivy, cucumbers, and sweet peas, have the natural ability to climb and attach themselves to trellises or support systems.

On the other hand, bush-type crops, such as tomatoes or peppers, are better suited for traditional ground-level gardening. While they don’t naturally climb, these plants have a more sprawling growth habit and require more horizontal space. If you have limited space, it’s best to avoid planting bush-type crops vertically, as they may not thrive in such conditions.

Another important consideration when choosing plants for vertical gardening is their sunlight requirements. Most crops need 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight to grow and fruit effectively. Therefore, it’s crucial to select a vertical gardening surface that faces the sun or provides ample exposure. Placing your vertical garden in a location with access to direct sunlight will ensure the health and productivity of your plants.

To summarize, for successful vertical gardening, choose vining plants that can climb and utilize vertical structures. Avoid planting bush-type crops vertically, as they require more horizontal space to thrive. Also, ensure that your chosen plants receive sufficient direct sunlight for optimal growth. By carefully selecting the right plants, you can create a stunning vertical garden that maximizes space and adds visual interest to your outdoor space.

Choosing Plants for Vertical Gardening	Vining Plants	Bush-type Crops	Direct Sunlight Requirements
Examples	Ivy, cucumbers, sweet peas	Tomatoes, peppers	6-8 hours
Attributes	Can climb and attach to vertical structures	More sprawling growth habit	Essential for optimal growth
Placement	Utilize vertical space effectively	Not suitable for vertical gardening	Select a sun-facing location

Different Structures for Vertical Gardening

Vertical gardening offers a creative and space-saving solution for plant enthusiasts. With the right structures, you can transform your garden into a stunning vertical display. Here are some popular options for vertical gardening structures:

Trellises:

Trellises are versatile and can be used for a wide range of climbing plants. They provide support and guide the plants as they grow vertically. Trellises are especially suitable for leafy plants with tendrils, like tomatoes and peas.

Tripods:

Tripods are a unique and eye-catching option for vertical gardening. They provide stability and visual interest to the garden. Tripods are commonly used for vining plants like beans and cucumbers. They create a beautiful focal point while allowing the plants to grow and spread out.

Arches and Pergolas:

Arches and pergolas are more substantial structures that can support larger plants and provide a dramatic vertical element in your garden. These structures are perfect for climbing roses, grapevines, and other substantial plants. They create a beautiful and inviting entrance or provide a shaded area for relaxation.

Wall-Mounted Planters:

Wall-mounted planters are an excellent choice for small spaces or when you want to add a touch of greenery to a wall or fence. They come in various sizes and designs, allowing you to create unique and personalized vertical displays. Wall-mounted planters are ideal for trailing plants and succulents.

Complete Table:

Structure Type	Recommended Plants
Trellises	Tomatoes, Peas, Morning Glories
Tripods	Beans, Cucumbers, Squash
Arches and Pergolas	Climbing Roses, Grapevines, Wisteria
Wall-Mounted Planters	Trailing Plants, Succulents, Herbs

These structures are just a few examples of the many options available for vertical gardening. The choice of structure depends on the plants you want to grow and the overall design of your garden. Experiment with different structures to create a visually stunning and functional vertical garden that reflects your style and preferences.

DIY Vertical Gardening Ideas

If you’re looking to add a touch of creativity and functionality to your garden, DIY vertical gardening ideas offer a fun and rewarding solution. Whether you have limited space or simply want to make a statement, these projects are perfect for adding greenery and style to any outdoor area. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Living Wall

One popular DIY vertical gardening idea is creating a living wall. This involves securing a trellis panel onto a wall and planting pots with herbs, vegetables, and flowers. Not only does it provide a stunning display, but it also maximizes space and allows for easy access to your favorite plants.

Vegetable Arch

A vegetable arch is both functional and visually appealing. Made from galvanized metal uprights and cattle panels, it provides a walk-through structure for growing climbing crops such as beans, cucumbers, or even small pumpkins. It adds height to your garden and creates a beautiful focal point.

Bean Teepee

A bean teepee is a fun and functional DIY vertical gardening project, especially if you have children. It can be made from bamboo canes or hazel poles and provides a perfect structure for growing climbing beans. Not only does it create a unique play area, but it also adds a touch of whimsy to your garden.

Pallet Planter

Repurposing old wooden pallets into a pallet planter is a great way to showcase your favorite herbs, salads, or strawberries. By attaching planters to the pallet and placing it vertically, you can create a beautiful and space-saving garden feature.

With these DIY vertical gardening ideas, you can transform your outdoor space into a lush and vibrant oasis. Whether you choose to create a living wall, a vegetable arch, a bean teepee, or a pallet planter, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of growing your own plants in a unique and creative way.

The Wow-Factor of Tall Towering Plants

Tall towering plants have the power to transform any garden into a breathtaking oasis. With their impressive height and oversized varieties, these plants add a sense of drama and grandeur to outdoor spaces. Whether you have a small garden or a larger landscape, incorporating tall plants can create a wow-factor that is sure to impress.

One of the key benefits of tall towering plants is their ability to add height to the garden. By strategically placing these plants in the middle or near the front of a garden bed, you can create a natural and organic look. The towering presence of these plants draws the eye upward, making the garden feel more expansive and visually captivating.

Some popular examples of tall towering plants include Acanthus mollis, also known as bear’s breeches, with its handsome foliage and elegant flower spikes. Another stunning choice is Kniphofia uvaria, commonly known as red hot poker, which produces tall and vibrant flower spikes that add a burst of color to the garden. Salvia azurea, or azure sage, is a beautiful option with its sky-blue flowers on tall spikes.

Table: Examples of Tall Towering Plants

Plant Name	Height	Characteristics
Acanthus mollis (Bear’s Breeches)	3-4 feet	Bold foliage, elegant flower spikes
Kniphofia uvaria (Red Hot Poker)	3-4 feet	Vibrant flower spikes, drought-tolerant
Salvia azurea (Azure Sage)	4-6 feet	Sky-blue flowers, attracts pollinators

With their commanding height and striking presence, tall towering plants are sure to create a lasting impression in any garden. Whether you’re looking to add a focal point or create a vertical element, these plants offer a unique opportunity to elevate your outdoor space and create a sense of awe.

Support and Maintenance of Tall Plants

Tall plants can add height, drama, and visual impact to any garden. However, they often require support to prevent them from flopping or toppling over. Proper support and maintenance are essential for keeping tall plants healthy and upright. Here are some common support structures and maintenance tips for tall plants:

Support Structures:

Structure	Description
Teuturs	A metal or wooden structure with perpendicular bars that provide support and stability to tall plants. It can be placed discreetly within the garden bed.
Obelisks	Tall, pyramid-shaped structures made of metal or wood. They offer a decorative element while providing support to climbing plants or those with weak stems.
Garden Stakes	Long, sturdy wooden or metal stakes that are driven into the ground near the base of tall plants. They help to anchor the plants and keep them upright.

When choosing a support structure, consider the size and weight of the plant, as well as its growth habit. Some plants may need multiple supports or a combination of different structures.

Maintenance Tips:

Regularly check the support structure for any signs of damage or weakness. Repair or replace it as needed to ensure the continued stability of the plant.
Prune tall plants to remove any weak or damaged branches. This helps to maintain a more compact and stable growth habit.
Water tall plants deeply and regularly to promote healthy root growth. Adequate moisture is crucial for the overall health and stability of the plant.
Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

“Proper support and maintenance are essential for keeping tall plants healthy and upright.”

– Gardening expert

By providing the necessary support and maintenance, you can enjoy the beauty and impact of tall plants in your garden. Whether it’s using teuturs, obelisks, or garden stakes, these structures help keep your tall plants upright and thriving. Regular pruning and watering are also crucial for their overall health and stability. With a little care and attention, your tall plants will be a standout feature in your garden.

Privacy and Barrier Plants

When it comes to creating privacy and barriers in your outdoor space, tall plants can be your best friend. Not only do they provide a natural screen, but they also add beauty and aesthetic value to your garden. Choosing the right privacy plants is essential, as they need to be tall enough to obstruct the view and create a sense of seclusion.

One excellent choice for a privacy plant is Salvia canariensis, which can grow up to 7 feet tall. With its striking purple blooms throughout the summer, it not only adds privacy but also brings color to your garden. Grevillea ‘Long John’ is another tall plant that can reach heights of 12 feet. Its feathery foliage and vibrant red flowers make it a unique and eye-catching addition to any space. If you’re looking for a flowering tree that offers both privacy and beauty, Lagerstroemia ‘Best Red’ is a fantastic option. With its stunning red blooms during the summer months, it will not only provide privacy but also become a focal point in your garden.

Creating a private oasis in your outdoor space is essential for relaxation and comfort. With the right selection of tall plants, you can achieve both privacy and visual appeal. Consider incorporating Salvia canariensis, Grevillea ‘Long John’, or Lagerstroemia ‘Best Red’ into your garden to enjoy a secluded and beautiful outdoor retreat.

Table: Tall Privacy and Barrier Plants

Plant	Height	Features
Salvia canariensis	Up to 7 feet	Purple blooms throughout summer
Grevillea ‘Long John’	Up to 12 feet	Feathery foliage, vibrant red flowers
Lagerstroemia ‘Best Red’	Varies, typically over 10 feet	Stunning red blooms during summer

Conclusion

Vertical gardening is a fantastic way to maximize space and create stunning displays in your garden. By choosing the right plants and utilizing various structures, you can transform your outdoor space into a lush and vibrant oasis.

Tall plants are excellent for adding height, drama, and privacy to your garden. They create a visual impact and serve as natural screens. Consider incorporating varieties like Salvia canariensis, Grevillea ‘Long John’, and Lagerstroemia ‘Best Red’ to enhance privacy and create a beautiful outdoor environment.

When it comes to vertical gardening, it’s important to choose the best plants for your vertical planter. Whether you have a small garden or a larger landscape, there are numerous options to explore. Experiment with different combinations of plants and structures to find what works best for you. So, go ahead and give vertical gardening a try. You’ll be amazed at the transformation it brings to your space!

FAQ

What are the best plants for vertical planters or vertical gardens?

Some top picks for vertical plants include tall slender trees, upright-growing shrubs, exclamation-point grasses, and vertical perennials.

What are some examples of tall slender trees for vertical impact?

Some examples of tall slender trees include ‘Slender Silhouette’ sweetgum, ‘Green Arrow’ false cypress, and Lindsey’s Skyward™ bald cypress.

What are upright-growing shrubs for strong accents?

Some examples of upright-growing shrubs include ‘Beanpole’ English yew, ‘Gold Cone’ juniper, and ‘Graham Blandy’ boxwood.

What are exclamation-point grasses for dramatic statements?

Some examples of exclamation-point grasses include ‘Northwind’ switchgrass, ‘Peppermint Stick’ giant reed, and ‘Skyracer’ purple moor grass.

What are vertical perennials for eye-catching contrasts?

Some examples of vertical perennials include ‘Autumn Minaret’ daylily, culver’s root, and Salvia canariensis.

What are the benefits of vertical gardening?

Vertical gardening offers increased growing area, higher yields, better air circulation, easier maintenance, and improved access for harvesting.

How do I choose the right plants for vertical gardening?

Choose vining or climbing varieties that can be trained to grow vertically. Avoid bush-type crops that take up more horizontal space.

What structures can I use for vertical gardening?

Popular structures for vertical gardening include trellises, tripods, arches, pergolas, wall-mounted planters, and hanging baskets.

What are some DIY vertical gardening ideas?

Some DIY ideas include creating a living wall with a trellis panel, building a vegetable arch from galvanized metal uprights and panels, constructing a bean teepee from bamboo canes or hazel poles, or repurposing old wooden pallets into a pallet planter.

How can tall towering plants create a wow-factor in the garden?

Tall towering plants add height, drama, and visual interest to outdoor spaces, even in small gardens. Placing them strategically can create a natural and organic look.

How do I support and maintain tall plants?

Tall plants often require support structures like teuturs, obelisks, or garden stakes to prevent flopping or toppling over. Regular maintenance such as pruning and watering is also essential.

Can tall plants be used as privacy or barrier plants?

Yes, tall plants can serve as excellent privacy and barrier plants, providing a natural screen and beauty to outdoor spaces.