‍Introduction: The Rise of Faux Greenery

In recent years, the desire to bring nature indoors has led to a surge in biophilic design. However, this trend has also given rise to a problematic solution: faux greenery. While artificial plants might seem like an easy fix for those seeking low-maintenance green spaces, they fundamentally contradict the principles of biophilia and sustainability.

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Faux greenery may seem like a convenient choice, but it often falls short in delivering the true essence of biophilic design. In contrast, preserved gardens, moss walls, and planter inserts with preserved foliage offer a more authentic, sustainable, and visually captivating alternative—blending the beauty of nature with long-lasting benefits.

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Understanding Biophilia and Its Importance

Biophilia, our innate connection to nature, is at the heart of biophilic design. This concept recognizes that humans have an inherent need to connect with natural elements, even in-built environments. True biophilic design aims to satisfy this need by incorporating authentic natural elements that engage our senses and promote well-being.

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The False Promise of Faux Greenery

Faux plants, typically made from materials like plastic, polyethylene and polypropylene (all byproducts of a petrochemical process, which are inherently electrostatic to make them dust magnets as soon as they’re installed), may mimic the appearance of living plants, but they fail to deliver the psychological and physiological benefits associated with real vegetation. These artificial alternatives lack the subtle variations in color, texture, and scent that make real plants so engaging to our senses.

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Moreover, faux plants do not contribute to improved air quality or humidity regulation, key benefits of living or preserved plants. The static nature of artificial plants also fails to provide the gentle movement and organic changes that make real plants so captivating and restful to observe.

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Environmental Impact of Artificial Plants

From a sustainability perspective, faux plants are problematic. Most artificial plants are made from non-biodegradable plastics, contributing to long-term environmental pollution. The production of these synthetic materials often involves harmful chemicals and significant energy consumption, further increasing their environmental footprint.

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While proponents of faux plants might argue for their longevity, the reality is that they often need replacement due to fading, unpleasant look due to dust accumulation, or changing design trends. This leads to increased waste and perpetuates the cycle of plastic pollution.

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Hidden Dangers: Chemical Leaching and VOC Exposure

Beyond the environmental concerns, faux plants poses potential health risks that are often overlooked. Synthetic plants can leach harmful chemicals into the air, compromising indoor environmental quality (IEQ)and potentially affecting occupant health. Studies have shown that plastic products, including those used in artificial plants, can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other toxins that may contribute to headaches, respiratory issues, and other health problems. There is even more danger, when these faux greenery elements are made of the recycled plastic which seems to release VOC in much higher rates into designed space.

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Artificial plants, faux greenery, and artificial walls also tend to accumulate dust due to their electrostatic properties. Within six months to a year, the combination of ambient humidity and attracted dust particles creates a sticky, unappealing surface that not only diminishes aesthetic appeal but can also harbor allergens and other particulates that negatively impact air quality.

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Preserved Nature: A Sustainable Alternative

In contrast to faux greenery, preserved gardens, moss walls and planter inserts offer a sustainable solution that aligns with biophilic principles, as long as they’re provided from a supplier with 3rdparty testing to prove the materiality of these gardens. These preserved greenery elements are created using real plants that have been carefully treated to maintain their natural appearance and texture for years without the need for water or sunlight.

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Preserved moss and plants with proven providers retain many benefits of living plants:

• They are biodegradable and eco-friendly
• They maintain a connection to nature, satisfying our biophilic needs
• They offer subtle variations in color and texture that artificial plants cannot replicate
• They contribute to acoustic comfort by absorbing sound

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Garden on the Wall^® (GOTW) specializes in preserved gardens, moss walls, and planter inserts that merge sustainability with stunning aesthetics, helping you achieve a true biophilic connection while also proving the materiality of their offerings. Unlike faux plants, GOTW preserved gardens and moss walls retain the natural beauty and texture of real plants while requiring no water, soil, or sunlight—offering a seamless integration of nature into interior spaces without the upkeep.

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Not All Preserved Gardens Are Created Equal

While preserved gardens and moss walls represent a superior alternative to artificial plants, it's crucial to recognize that significant quality differences exist among providers in this rapidly expanding market. Simply choosing preserved over artificial isn't enough—selecting the right provider is essential for ensuring both safety and longevity.

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Without proper third-party testing and verification, preserved gardens can potentially introduce their own set of indoor environmental quality issues. Some providers may use inadequate preservation methods or undisclosed chemicals that could negatively impact occupant health over time. The increasing prevalence of greenwashing in this industry has made it difficult for designers to distinguish between truly sustainable options and those making unsubstantiated claims.

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When specifying preserved gardens, designers should look for comprehensive third-party testing that validates material health and safety. As of 2024, Garden on the Wall^® stands as the industry leader with an unmatched array of certifications, including:

• Published Health Product Declaration (HPD v2.3) with disclosure of up to 100 parts per million for the whole garden system
• Compliance with California Department of Public Health's VOC standards for both classroom and office environments
• 100% Bio-based carbon content verification per ASTM 6866
• Red List Free certification for the entire garden system
• Class 1 and Class A flame spread and smoke index ratings per ASTM E84
• Compliance with the Healthy Hospitals Initiative
• Listing in the mindful MATERIALS database and Sustainable Minds Transparency Catalog
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These rigorous certifications ensure that Garden on the Wall^®'s installations contribute positively to indoor environmental quality while delivering the full benefits of biophilic design.

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The Value of Experience and Proven Longevity

Another critical consideration when selecting a preserved garden provider is their track record of successful installations and demonstrated longevity. While many companies may make claims about the expected lifespan of their products, few can provide concrete evidence to support these assertions.

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Garden on the Wall^®'s portfolio of over 1,850 installations since 2014—all of which continue to be enjoyed by clients—stands as a testament to their unparalleled experience and quality standards. This proven longevity translates directly to value, as installations that last for 10-12 years (and can be extended to 20+ years through their unique rejuvenation program) represent a significantly better investment than options requiring frequent replacement.

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When evaluating the total cost of ownership, Garden on the Wall^®'s preserved gardens emerge as the most cost-effective solution in the long term. Their 7-year comprehensive warranty—the longest in the industry—reflects their confidence in their product's durability and provides peace of mind for designers and clients alike.

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The Authenticity Factor in Biophilic Design

Authenticity is crucial in biophilic design. Our brains are remarkably adept at distinguishing between real and artificial nature, even at a subconscious level. This means that while faux plants might provide a superficial green aesthetic, they fail to trigger the positive psychological and physiological responses associated with authentic natural elements.

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Preserved moss walls and gardens, on the other hand, maintain the intricate details and organic imperfections of real plants. This authenticity allows them to engage our senses more fully, creating a genuine connection to nature that artificial alternatives simply cannot match.

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Practical Benefits of Preserved Nature

Beyond their biophilic and sustainable advantages, preserved plants that are supplied from a reliable provider offer practical benefits that make them superior to both faux greenery and living plants in many settings:

• Low maintenance: No need for watering, pruning, or pest control
• Longevity: Can last for years with minimal care
• Versatility: Can be used in areas where living plants might struggle
• Consistency: Maintain their appearance year-round

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These qualities make preserved nature elements ideal for commercial spaces, healthcare environments, and busy households where the benefits of greenery are desired without the associated maintenance challenges.

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Visual Excellence: Another Key Differentiator

The visual quality of preserved gardens significantly impacts both their aesthetic appeal and longevity. Superior installations feature seamless integration of moss sheets, creating a carpet-like appearance with no visible seams or patches. This craftsmanship is particularly evident in Garden on the Wall^®'s installations, where the flat moss canvas is meticulously woven together and plants are artfully arranged to create depth and visual interest.

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In contrast, lower-quality installations often display visible seams between moss sheets and panels, creating a patchy, tile-like appearance that detracts from the natural aesthetic. This not only compromises the visual impact but can also indicate potential longevity issues, as visible seams tend to become more pronounced over time.

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Garden on the Wall^®'s commitment to visual excellence has been recognized through numerous industry awards, including three Interior Design Best of Year Awards, eight Architizer A+ Awards, and the prestigious Metropolis Planet Positive Award. These accolades reflect their unparalleled artistry and dedication to creating truly exceptional biophilic installations that transform spaces into vibrant, nature-inspired environments.

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Conclusion: Choosing Authentic Biophilic Design

As we strive to create more nature-connected, sustainable interiors, it's crucial to look beyond superficial green aesthetics. Faux greenery, while seemingly convenient, fails to deliver the true benefits of biophilic design and poses significant environmental concerns.

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Preserved gardens, moss walls, and planter inserts with preserved foliage offer a superior alternative. They provide an authentic connection to nature, align with sustainability goals, and offer practical advantages for a wide range of environments.

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When selecting a preserved garden provider, thorough due diligence is essential. By choosing a proven industry leader like Garden on the Wall^®—with their comprehensive third-party testing, documented longevity, and unmatched visual standards—designers can ensure their biophilic installations deliver maximum benefits with minimal environmental impact.

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By prioritizing authentic, tested, and proven preserved nature elements over artificial alternatives, we can create spaces that genuinely nurture our innate connection to nature while supporting environmental responsibility. In doing so, we cultivate interiors that not only look natural but also feel alive, fostering well-being, productivity, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

For more information on this subject and other related information, please visit our website: www.gardenonthewall.com

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