Cleaning methods for 3D artificial vertical gardens

The cleaning of vertical gardens should take into account plant health, structural safety and landscape effects. Appropriate methods should be selected based on the type of pollution (dust, fallen leaves, algae, etc.) and the characteristics of the plants. The following are the cleaning strategies by scenarios:

First, daily cleaning: Dust and leaf removal

Gentle blowing and sweeping

Use a portable blower or a soft-bristled broom to remove the dust on the leaf surface along the growth direction of the plant (from top to bottom) to avoid damaging the young leaves by blowing in the opposite direction.

For plants with dense leaves such as Pothos or ivy, the fan speed should be set to the lowest level and the operation should be carried out at a distance of more than 30 centimeters from the plants.

Leaf collection

Regularly clear the dead leaves and debris that have fallen to the bottom of the garden to prevent water accumulation and mold growth.

For example, set up detachable leaf collection troughs at the bottom of the vertical garden and clean them once a week to prevent rotten leaves from contaminating the substrate.

Blade wiping

For the leaves of ornamental plants (such as turtle-back bamboo and fiddle-leaf FIG), gently wipe them with a moist soft cloth dipped in clean water or diluted milk (which can enhance luster) to remove stubborn stains.

Frequency: Once a month to avoid clogging of the blade pores caused by frequent operation.

Second, deep cleaning: Removal of algae and moss

Physical scraping

For algae and moss on the wall surface or the surface of the planting module, use a plastic scraper or a soft-bristled brush to gently remove them to avoid scratching the waterproof layer or the plant roots.

For the felt surface of the bag-type vertical garden, operation should be carried out in dry weather to prevent moisture from seeping into the substrate.

Biological control

Introduce algae-eating insects (such as lacewings) or microbial preparations (such as Bacillus subtilis) to inhibit algae growth and reduce the use of chemical cleaners.

Applicable scenarios: When the algae coverage area is less than 10%, biological methods should be given priority.

Local rinsing

Use low-pressure nozzles (pressure ≤0.5MPa) to rinse the contaminated area. The direction of the water flow should be consistent with the growth direction of the plants to avoid scattering the substrate.

After rinsing, wait for 24 hours to ensure that the surface of the substrate is dry before irrigation.

Third, structural cleaning: Maintenance of planting modules and walls

Module cleaning

For detachable planting modules (such as plastic planting boxes), they should be taken out regularly and rinsed with clean water to remove substrate residues and salt stains.

Clean it once every quarter. After cleaning, it needs to be dried before reinstallation to prevent mold growth.

Wall inspection

During the cleaning process, check whether the waterproof layer on the wall is damaged. If cracks or bulges are found, they should be repaired in time to prevent water from seeping in and causing damage to the wall.

Example: For the repair of the waterproof layer, a waterproof coating compatible with the original material should be used. After the repair, it needs to be maintained for 7 days.

Drainage system cleaning

Remove debris and root systems from the drainage holes to ensure smooth drainage and prevent water accumulation from causing root rot in plants.

For example: Use fine iron wire or high-pressure air to blow the drainage holes and check once a month.

Fourth, special pollution treatment

Oil stains and dirt

For local oil stains, dilute a neutral detergent (such as dishwashing liquid) and gently wipe, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Do not use: Cleaning agents containing bleach or strong acids and alkalis, which may damage the plant leaves and substrate.

Bird droppings and insect secretions

Upon discovery, immediately wipe with a damp cloth dipped in white vinegar (diluted at a ratio of 1:10) to prevent acidic substances from corroding the leaves.

After wiping, it should be rinsed with clean water to avoid residual vinegar solution affecting plant growth.

Mold and Disease

For mild mold spots, use 75% alcohol spray for disinfection and keep the area well-ventilated and dry.

For severely diseased areas, isolation should be carried out and the substrate and plants replaced to prevent the spread.

Fifth, cleaning tools and safety

Tool selection

Give priority to using soft tools (such as sponges, soft brushes), and avoid using hard tools (such as steel wool balls) to scratch plants or structures.

For climbing plants, a soft-bristled toothbrush can be used to clean the gaps between the leaves.

Safety protection

Wear gloves and goggles when operating to prevent the cleaner from splashing into your eyes or causing skin allergies.

When working at heights, safety ropes and anti-slip shoes must be used to ensure the safety of personnel.

Cleaning time

Avoid cleaning during the high-temperature period (10:00-15:00) or when the plants are in full bloom to prevent rapid evaporation of water or damage to the flowers.

The best time for cleaning is in the early morning or evening, when the stomata of plants are closed and their stress resistance is relatively strong.

Sixth, combine cleaning with maintenance

Matrix renewal

Replace part of the substrate every 1 to 2 years, supplement organic fertilizer and slow-release fertilizer, and maintain the nutritional balance of plants.

When changing the substrate, it is necessary to retain the beneficial microorganisms in the original substrate to avoid plant stress caused by a complete replacement.

Plant pruning

During the cleaning process, prune dead branches, diseased leaves and overly dense branches to promote ventilation and light penetration and reduce the occurrence of pests and diseases.

Example: After pruning, apply a healing agent to the wound to prevent bacteria from invading.

Ecological monitoring

After cleaning, observe the growth status of the plants. If the leaves turn yellow or wilt, check the irrigation system and ventilation conditions.

By using soil hygrometers and temperature and humidity sensors, environmental parameters can be monitored in real time, and maintenance strategies can be adjusted promptly.

Through the above cleaning methods, the 3D artificial vertical garden can maintain its beauty and ecological functions for a long time. Cleaning should be carried out in combination with the growth cycle of plants and the type of pollution, and strategies should be flexibly adjusted to avoid excessive intervention that may cause damage to plants. Meanwhile, regular maintenance and monitoring are the keys to ensuring the stable operation of the system.