Study on Behavior of Some Perennial Flowering Species Used in Vertical Systems for Green Facades in Eastern European Climate

Abstract

The negative effects of urbanization such as urban overheating, pollution, high population density and so on are being experienced by city inhabitants more than ever, thus motivating a high number of researchers to find viable solutions to mitigate these effects. The present paper aims to identify an assortment of ornamental plants appropriate to be successfully used in various facade covering systems for buildings located in Eastern European countries. For this purpose, throughout a vegetation season, the project’s team thoroughly monitored the percentage of survival, the coverage degree, and the behavior (biometric aspects and visual quality) of ten flowering species planted vertically and being oriented towards all four cardinal points. At the same time, the team conducted a thorough monitoring of some parameters of the soil (pH, humidity, and temperature) and of the outside environment (light intensity and temperature). Two experimental structures were built, insulated on the inside and covered at the top with thermal insulating panels, to simulate the same conditions of an insulated and unheated construction. The monitoring results showed that Heuchera x hybrida ‘Fire Alarm’, Heuchera x hybrida ‘Marmalade’ and Festuca galuca had a healthy appearance throughout the year, regardless of the cardinal orientation while providing a good coverage of the vertical surface.

A Study on the Development of Two Ornamental Varieties of Ipomoea batatas Cultivated in Vertical Systems in the Northeastern Region of Europe

“…Each tier covered an area of 1 m 2, replicated three times. A small intermediate space facilitating plant watering was left between the tiers [3].…”

“…Each tier covered an area of 1 m 2, replicated three times. A small intermediate space facilitating plant watering was left between the tiers [3]. 'Blackie' and 'Margarita' of I. batatas were arranged on each tier, one below the other in two distinct columns.…”

“…Reducing the negative impacts of excessive urbanisation has been a major concern for researchers from various fields of study in their attempts to provide an effective, sustainable solution to this currently challenging issue [1]. Both macro-level solutions on large land areas, such as urban and peri-urban forests [2], and micro-level solutions, which cover smaller surfaces (parks and squares) or unconventional surfaces such as green roofs and façades [3,4], aim to counteract such effects and contribute to greater urban comfort and life quality. The mitigation of urban heat islands, the reduction or elimination of air pollutants, a lowered level of noise, and improved physical and mental health, as well as the well-being of citizens, are some of the benefits provided by green areas [5,6].…”