Fitostena: What It Is and How to Care for It

Great idea: instead of numerous indoor plants that require regular watering and care, decorate your interior with a whole «green» wall that will live on its own. Or won't it? We tell you the details and answer questions.

What is a fitostena?

This is a structure of vertical greening that uses live plants, dried flowers, preserved moss and stabilized plants.

Design: Darya El'nikova
What material is the least demanding?

The least maintenance is required for dried flowers and preserved moss and plants: they only need dusting. Therefore, such structures can be used almost anywhere.

What soil should live plants be planted in?

Peat, moss, coconut husk, and mineral fillers are suitable for planting.

How often do I need to water the fitostena? What if I go on vacation?

Most fitostenas are equipped with an automatic watering system to keep the structure fresh for a long time. There are economical systems that require watering once a week, others need more frequent watering.

Still, you must monitor the watering in case of system malfunctions. Once a week after watering, check with your hand how moist the substrate in the wall is. If it's dry or not sufficiently moist after watering, something might have gone wrong with the pump or just the filter needs cleaning or replacement. Also, drip emitters may clog and should be replaced every two years.

Is that all?

No, live plants also need leaf misting once a week and fertilization — a greening specialist can help select the right ones. Fertilizers should be added during watering using special dosers or poured manually. Additionally, a quarterly check for insects and parasites is necessary.

What about lighting?

Most fitostenas are installed at a distance from windows, so special lighting systems with timers are needed — at least 6–10 hours a day (depending on the season). The distance from lamps (if they are not LED) to the «green» wall should be no less than two meters. Equally important is even lighting, otherwise your wall will grow unevenly, not fully.

Design: Anna Ignatenko
What if something goes wrong?

Don't skimp on quality in the beginning: fitostenas must be installed by professionals who provide guarantees. If problems arise in the watering or lighting system, contact a technician. If you notice any coating on plants, holes in leaves or other signs of disease, contact a plant specialist immediately.

How to use fitostena in interior design?

Fitosystems suit both full walls and niches. They make a perfect accent in eco style, loft, or minimalism.