Green walls

To light a living wall, I recommend using specific LED lighting systems. A living wall presents particular constraints regarding light diffusion and penetration. You need to consider both aesthetics and, more importantly, the photoperiodic needs of your plants. I always favor solutions that allow for homogeneous luminous flux across the entire surface.

The LED wattage to choose depends on several key factors: the type of plants you are growing, the size of your living wall, and the ambient natural light. Generally, I advise aiming for sufficient light intensity for the light to penetrate the foliage well. For demanding plants, you can go up to 30-40 watts per square meter, but for less demanding plants, 15-20 watts may suffice. It is crucial to adapt this wattage to the specific needs of your plant species.

The installation of LEDs on a living wall must be designed for optimal and uniform diffusion. What I often see is the use of LED bars or adjustable spotlights fixed above or on the sides of the wall. I recommend positioning the luminaires so that the light reaches all plants, from top to bottom, and avoiding shaded areas. The lighting angle is essential for good penetration.

The difference is fundamental! Horticultural LEDs are specifically designed for plant growth. They emit an optimized light spectrum, rich in blue and red wavelengths, essential for photosynthesis. Standard LEDs, on the other hand, are made for human lighting and do not offer the spectrum necessary for the good health of your plants. If I had to choose, I wouldn't hesitate for a second: always horticultural LEDs for a living wall.

LED lighting for living walls is primarily used to ensure the survival and growth of your plants, especially indoors where natural light is often insufficient. It compensates for the lack of light, extends the daylight hours, and provides the precise light spectrum plants need for photosynthesis. In practice, this is what guarantees dense foliage and healthy plants, even without direct sunlight.

The ideal distance between the LEDs and your living wall is a key element. It depends on the power of your luminaires and the needs of your plants. Generally, I recommend a distance of 20 to 40 centimeters for LED bars or spotlights. If the LEDs are too close, you risk burning the leaves; too far, the light will be insufficient. You need to find the right balance for optimal penetration and to avoid shaded areas.

For plant growth in a living wall, I favor a full light spectrum, but with a predominance of blue and red. Blue is essential for vegetative growth and plant robustness, while red promotes flowering and fruiting. A good balance between these two colors, complemented by other wavelengths (green, yellow), ensures harmonious development. Some luminaires offer adjustable spectra, which is very practical for adapting to the different life stages of your plants.