At Spruce & Gander, we pride ourselves on providing landscape architects with solutions that not only enhance outdoor commercial spaces but also address sustainability, water efficiency, and low-maintenance needs. One innovation that aligns with these values is the wicking bed technology selected by Street Furniture Australia, which is featured in the Linea and Frame Planters. These systems help maintain healthy plants while reducing water usage and labor, making them ideal for urban environments with high demands for resource conservation.
How Wicking Beds Work
Wicking beds deliver water from below the root zone rather than from the surface, allowing moisture to be drawn upward through the soil. This approach ensures an even distribution of moisture throughout the planter, providing consistent hydration for plants. Excess water drains off through a discreet overflow hole in the side of the planter, preventing overwatering. A key feature is the hidden pipe system that makes refilling simple while keeping the system out of sight.
Water Savings and Reduced Maintenance
According to WaterUps, a key partner in wicking bed innovation, these systems can save up to 80% of water compared to traditional drip irrigation. During summer, watering is needed only every two weeks, while in cooler months, it extends to every four to six weeks.
For example, Wollongong City Council in Australia has seen significant success with these systems. Before implementing wicking beds, the council's gardeners were watering their planters two to three times a week. Thanks to the wicking beds in their Linea and Frame Planters, the watering schedule has decreased to once a week in warmer seasons, drastically cutting both water consumption and labor hours.
Practical Benefits for Urban Projects
Wicking beds offer more than just water efficiency. They reduce the potential for water runoff onto footpaths, minimizing issues such as weed growth in surrounding areas. The perlite (a lightweight volcanic glass) added to the wicking bed's legs also improves drainage and aeration, enhancing the overall wicking performance.
In addition, wicking beds are most effective when placed on level surfaces, which is why our Linea Planters come equipped with adjustable feet. This feature gives landscape architects greater flexibility in positioning planters across various urban terrains, ensuring optimal water distribution.
Sustainable Solutions for Landscape Architects
As urban environments increasingly prioritize sustainability, landscape architects can confidently turn to wicking beds as a solution that marries beauty with responsibility. These planters offer a reduced environmental footprint and a cost-effective approach to maintenance—critical factors in ensuring your projects are both functional and future-proof.
At Spruce & Gander, we proudly represent products that align with today's landscape architects' sustainable and aesthetic goals. Whether you are designing public spaces, commercial properties, or other urban landscapes, our Linea and Frame Planters with wicking beds provide the durability, efficiency, and flexibility your projects need.
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