At Viritopia, we believe it’s important to teach kids the importance of nature and the environment as early as possible.
This is why, on Friday 13th, we hosted a school trip for a group of children aged 7-12 to try and give an insight into the process of designing, planting and installing living walls and the effects adding greenery to urban areas has not only on the environment and our eco-systems, but our health too.
Starting the day with a tour of the nursery, the children were mesmerized by the amount of plants growing for specific living wall projects, and the huge variety of species. Many believed that some plants were fake due to their vibrant colouring.
As their ‘tour guide’ Steve energetically showed the kids around, explaining and answering questions, the children were amazed at the technical system for irrigation that allows each plant to grow and stay healthy. Young plants were handed out and dissected by the kids, following a read of a short ‘How do plants grow’ booklet. Did you know that an established Oak tree can drink 200 gallons of water a day?
Inspired by the nature around them, they began to sketch their chosen plant.
Helped by Scott, Steve and our nursery planters, the children learned how to follow a planting design in order to plant up modules which would then be put together for their very own living wall. This living wall was recently installed in the school’s outdoor entrance area allowing all students and staff to experience the benefits of a living wall in person. Strawberry plants were included in the design, so once the plants are more established, the living wall will grow wild strawberries!
With countless castles, caves and mineral springs, it certainly takes some effort to impress in Slovakia. Amongst the wealth of natural beauty, urban landscaping fits right in. Bringing nature to commercial and private settings, the greenery creates a relaxing environment that helps people stay in touch with the natural beauty Slovakia is known for.
Different colours and textures are used in living walls to create a natural feel that flows throughout the building. The contrast between brick and greenery in our Slovakian projects created a modern, welcoming environment that is guaranteed to stand out.