subject: Why A Dedicated Maintenance Services Should Be Expected From Office Landscaping Companies [print this page] The positive impact that plants can have in a work place is by no means a secret. In fact, much has been written on it, and research has categorically proven that impact to be extensive. Bringing a few potted plants onto the office is admirable, but the biggest and most effective impact is garnered from professionally designed and properly installed floral displays provided by office landscaping companies. However, that is only half of the story. The simple fact is that, because landscaping deals in the main with living plants, it is essential that an after sales service be provided by these same landscaping companies. The fact is that, unless the office plants used are artificial, there is a need to maintain them, tend to them, and ensure they are properly watered and nourished. In essence, it is essential that they remain alive and well looking if they are to maintain the positive effect they were brought into the office to provide. For some features, such as living walls, for example, the need for a dedicated maintenance service is even greater. This is because of the structural and technological aspects involved in modern vertical gardens, which include sensors in their make up to permit remote monitoring. However, there is more to it than simply monitoring the plants in the wall. With the wall comprising so many different structural aspects, like metal frames, panels and an inbuilt irrigation system, it is only natural that the system would need to be regularly maintained. It is certainly something that only a professional can do. This means that, on a regular basis, the landscaping company should take a careful look to ensure that nothing is coming lose or is working inefficiently. The frames should still be secured soundly and the plant panels should still be fixed firmly to the frame. These issues are very basic, but it is the irrigation system that is of particular concern because of the technology involved. The system has a controller, which serves to regulate the water supply that is dripped into the panels. The moisture and temperature sensors used must also be checked, along with the actual drip lines. A full and proper maintenance service will also clear any spillage or damage to surrounding surfaces, such as the floor and any furniture that might be located below the wall. Still, the plants comprising the wall will have to be carefully monitored too, to ensure their health is maintained. The plants themselves are usually rooted in a light growth material. This material cannot be eroded by the flow of water, so the plants should not lose the source of their nourishment and, therefore, remain green and lush for the entire height of the wall. However, if the wall is located outside then weather conditions can have a definite effect on them, with freezing temperatures, a heat wave or a sudden storm all potentially causing serious damage to the plants. If the wall is located inside but in direct sunlight, as is often the case in large lobbies, then the plants could dry out quickly. Of course, the inbuilt irrigation system that drip feeds water to the plants should ensure that the plants are always suitably watered. However, a close eye via a visit to the site is always necessary. Of course, there are other basic services to be expected. The first, and perhaps most important is an initial detailed consultation, which should be arranged before any installation takes place. The detail and quality of the consultation is very important, with a representative of the office landscaping company visiting to view at first hand the office itself, or where a wall is to be placed. The representative should advise on the suitability of plant types and options and, ultimately, develop the concept that the hiring company desires. Once the design, chosen plants, overall costing and start date are all agreed, then the company can being work. And while the choice of office plants may be quite simple, with office favorites taking a leading role in almost every venue, the composition of the plants in the living walls can be a little trickier. However, regardless of what plants are chosen, the need to ensure they are all kept in the best possible condition, and continue to bring fresh air, color and a pleasant atmosphere to the office floor, demands that a dedicated maintenance service can provide.
