Case 2

Bulging and Damaged Planter Box

Introduction

The planter box in the image is observed to be tearing due to the inappropriate estimation of vertical greenery system’s weight.

Possible causes of the damaged planter box

Inappropriate estimation of plant weight and unsuitable design of supporting structure.

• The box material and size was unable to withstand the pressure caused by the soil and plant resulting in bulging. An unsuitable design of supporting structure was selected for the system resulting ultimately in failure to properly support.

Preventive Measures

The planter box should have adequate drainage, to prevent waterlogging within the planter box, damaging the roots, and imposing extra hydrostatic pressure on the planter box surface, which may ultimately lead to planter box damage.

An adequate estimation of the plant and soil’s weight and volume should be made before the construction and installation of the planter box. This would allow for a better estimation of planter box volume, shaping, and material. With adequate structural support within the planter box design, the planter box is less likely to be damaged.

Corrective Measures

In most cases, damaged planters are a consequence of inadequate planning. Therefore corrective measures would be a full replacement of the existing planter along with a reevaluation of the planter capacity before replanting.