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Sarasota News Leader October 25, 2013 As a lover of plants, I have always thought that a living wall was a nice organic alternative to a "hardscape" barrier. A single hedge plant can be chosen to create a formal hedge, or a variety of plants may be used to establish a more informal boundary (see the accompanying photos). Page 108 Another option is to combine any of the above elements. A hard cold wall or unadorned fence can be softened, and color added, by planting in front of it. A solid barrier enhanced in such a way provides insurance against the whims of nature. If winter brings a hard freeze, lush green tropical plants might turn brown or even be ravaged down to the However, establishing a living wall means the ground. Drought, disease or insect infestation property owner has to maintain the shrubbery. might similarly render components of a living Trimming, pruning, fertilization, pest control wall unattractive. and disease prevention must be employed at intervals to keep the plants looking good. The protagonist in the Frost poem says at one Choosing low-maintenance cultivars can min- point, "Something there is that doesn't love imize the effort. a wall." I share this sentiment. In erecting a A fence and new trimmings provide a greater sense of privacy. Photo by Rick Wielgorecki