Soil Retention Masonry & Concrete - Plantable Concrete Systems
Soil Retention
Plantable Concrete Retaining Wall
Verdura® from Soil Rention, is a fully plantable retaining wall block system that can be used in many applications from small garden walls to large commercial structures.
or Give us a Call
Product Summary
The series of Verdura® wall blocks can be used for a wide range of construction projects ranging from small residential projects to large scale developments. The Verdura® wall transforms a grade transition into a vegetated “steepened slope” instead of a concrete scar across a hillside.
Verdura® offers something for just about everybody. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to create a vertical garden or a large developer seeking to economically terrace a master planned community, this specialized, fully plantable, segmental retaining wall system provides the solution to a wide variety of design challenges.
Construction and Materials
Soil Retention offers innovative plantable concrete systems designed to integrate vegetation seamlessly into hardscape structures. These systems are engineered for durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, providing sustainable solutions for a variety of landscaping and construction needs.
Construction
The core of Soil Retention's plantable concrete systems lies in their unique structural design, which allows for the successful establishment and maintenance of plant life within concrete elements. The construction typically involves:
- Interlocking Units: Many of their systems utilize precast concrete units that interlock to form stable walls, planters, or other structures. This interlocking design ensures structural integrity and ease of installation.
- Integrated Planting Pockets: Strategically designed voids or pockets are incorporated into the concrete units. These pockets are sized and shaped to hold growing medium (soil) and accommodate plant root systems.
- Drainage Channels: Engineered channels and perforations within the concrete units facilitate proper drainage. This is crucial for preventing waterlogging, which can be detrimental to plant health and the longevity of the concrete structure.
- Structural Support: Depending on the application, these systems may incorporate internal reinforcement or be designed to work in conjunction with standard construction practices to meet structural load requirements.
- Surface Texture: The surface of the concrete units is often textured or grooved to promote the growth of groundcover plants and mosses, further enhancing the natural integration of the structure.
Materials Used
Soil Retention exclusively uses high-quality concrete as the primary material for their plantable systems. The specific composition and properties of the concrete are tailored to meet the demands of both structural performance and supporting plant life:
- Concrete Mix: A durable, high-strength concrete mix is employed. This ensures the systems can withstand environmental factors such as freeze-thaw cycles, abrasion, and the stresses associated with retaining soil and plants.
- Aggregate: Carefully selected aggregates are used to provide strength and stability to the concrete. The size and type of aggregate can influence the porosity and overall density of the concrete.
- Reinforcement (where applicable): For applications requiring enhanced structural capacity, such as retaining walls, the concrete units may be reinforced with steel or other suitable materials, following industry standards for reinforced concrete construction.
- Integral Colorants (optional): In some instances, integral colorants may be added to the concrete mix to achieve specific aesthetic finishes, allowing the structures to blend more harmoniously with their surroundings.
- Admixtures (proprietary): While not explicitly detailed, it is common for concrete manufacturers to utilize proprietary admixtures to enhance specific properties of the concrete, such as workability, durability, or water resistance, without compromising its ability to support vegetation.
The combination of thoughtful design and robust material selection allows Soil Retention's plantable concrete systems to offer a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional hardscaping solutions.
Features and Benefits
Soil Retention, a leader in innovative green infrastructure solutions, offers a revolutionary approach to landscape design and construction with their plantable concrete systems. These systems provide the structural integrity of concrete while simultaneously fostering vibrant, living landscapes. Designed for a wide range of applications, from retaining walls and erosion control to decorative garden features and pathways, Soil Retention's plantable concrete solutions empower you to create beautiful, sustainable, and functional outdoor spaces.
The core advantage of Soil Retention's plantable concrete systems lies in their unique ability to integrate vegetation directly into the concrete structure. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal by softening hardscapes with lush greenery but also provides significant environmental benefits. Vegetation established within these systems helps to absorb stormwater runoff, reduce erosion, improve air quality, and create habitat for beneficial insects and wildlife. This dual functionality makes them an ideal choice for projects seeking to balance urban development with ecological restoration.
Key Features and Benefits
- Engineered for Vegetation: The concrete itself is specifically formulated to allow for plant growth. This means that roots can establish themselves securely within the porous concrete matrix, ensuring long-term plant health and stability.
- Structural Integrity: Provides the strength and durability expected from concrete construction, capable of withstanding significant loads and environmental pressures. This makes it suitable for demanding applications like retaining walls.
- Versatile Applications: Adaptable to a multitude of uses, including:
- Retaining Walls
- Erosion Control Structures
- Gabion Wall Fillers
- Garden Planters
- Pathways and Patios
- Green Roof Systems
- Aesthetic Enhancement: Transforms conventional concrete structures into living works of art. The integration of plants softens hard edges, adds color and texture, and creates a more natural and inviting environment.
- Environmental Advantages: Contributes to sustainable design goals by:
- Reducing Stormwater Runoff
- Minimizing Soil Erosion
- Improving Air Quality
- Providing Wildlife Habitat
- Lowering Urban Heat Island Effect
- Durable and Low Maintenance: Once established, the vegetated concrete systems are remarkably durable and require minimal ongoing maintenance compared to traditional landscaping solutions.
- Customizable Designs: Can be integrated into various design aesthetics, offering flexibility to match specific project requirements and architectural styles.
Core Advantages
The primary advantage of Soil Retention's plantable concrete systems is the seamless fusion of robust construction with ecological functionality. This innovative approach moves beyond traditional concrete's role as a purely structural element, transforming it into a medium that actively supports and enhances the natural environment.
- Sustainability at its Foundation: These systems embody sustainable design principles by actively contributing to environmental health rather than solely serving a structural purpose.
- Long-Term Value: The combination of durability and the ecological benefits provided by established vegetation offers long-term value, reducing the need for frequent repairs and enhancing the overall ecological performance of a site.
- Unique Design Opportunities: Opens up new possibilities for landscape architects and designers to create visually stunning and environmentally responsible projects that integrate seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
- Homepage
- Products
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Specifications
- Instructions
- About Us
- Video
- Photo Gallery
- Product Availability and Pricing Click here for details
-
Similar Products
- See all our Masonry & Concrete products.