(Fig. 5) Pritzker Family Children's Zoo - Lincoln Park Zoo (Source. Doug Snower, Doug Snower Photography)

As mentioned before, green screens can be applied in a number of situations. Green screens can be incorporated into a larger site design to provide shade and evapotraspiration. When affixed to a building, the screen must be installed with a gap so aggressive vegetation is kept from potentially damaging the surface. It is also important to consider ingress/egress and desired interior light qualities. For a larger system, structural loads need to be calculated and irrigation should be installed to provide appropriate levels of watering.

Like a green roof, selecting vegetation species will determine the success of a green screen. It is necessary to select plants for the appropriate hardiness zone and geographic location. For example, there are vines that can withstand severe cold and retain foliage during the winter months. Designers should also consider microclimate conditions such as exposure to light, wind, heat, chemicals and pollution, humidity, etc. that will affect the plants, but also how the system will affect the surrounding microclimate. Mixing annuals and perennials may work but a landscape professional should be consulted for specific application. It is also important to note that some plants may take up to five years to become fully established.

There is a varying degree of maintenance required but the client’s willingness should be considered before designing the system and selecting plant type.