Florafelt Pocket Panels

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Florafelt Pocket Panels - Specifications

SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

The Florafelt Pocket Panel living wall system is a lightweight, modular, patented vertical growing system utilizing synthetic felt pockets for capillary moisture wicking. Panels are engineered for vertical stacking to accommodate scalable living wall dimensions. The system employs gravitational water movement and capillary action to distribute moisture inward, minimizing exterior dripping. Irrigation is automated via standard drip or recirculating systems. Plant material is secured within reusable synthetic root wrappers prior to insertion, facilitating non-destructive modular arrangement. The non-binding felt matrix allows for uninhibited root expansion into the growing medium and structural felt, ensuring long-term plant health and structural maturity.

SECTION 12 93 00 – Site Furnishings

1. GENERAL

1.1. SECTION INCLUDES

Florafelt Vertical Garden Planters: Non-woven P.E.T. plastic fiber matrices mechanically fastened to rigid P.E.T. plastic mounting boards.

1.2. RELATED SECTIONS

  • DIVISION 06 – Wood, Plastics, and Composites: 061000 Rough Carpentry (Wood framing, furring, nailers, and blocking).

  • DIVISION 05 – Metals: 054000 Cold-formed Metal Framing (Load-bearing and exterior non-load-bearing).

  • DIVISION 07 – Thermal and Moisture Protection: 071353 Elastomeric Sheet Waterproofing (Butyl and EPDM sheet; drainage panels).

1.3. REFERENCES

ASTM E84-12: Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials (UL 723, UBC 8-1, NFPA 255).

1.4. SUBMITTALS

Submit under provisions of Section 01300.

  • Product Data: Submit manufacturer’s product data sheets, including dimensions, finishes, storage requirements, and installation recommendations.

  • Shop Drawings: For custom configurations, submit drawings indicating dimensions, layout, joints, interface with adjacent structural elements, and field-verified measurements critical to installation.

  • Samples: Submit two 6-inch (150 mm) square samples for each specified custom finish, representing actual product, color, and texture.

1.5. VERIFICATION OF STRUCTURAL CAPACITY

The Owner shall obtain prior written certification from a licensed Professional Engineer confirming that the mounting structure is structurally adequate to bear the fully saturated load of the Florafelt System (50 kg / sqm or 10 lbs / sq ft). The Owner acknowledges that the Certified Dealer and Manufacturer are absolved of any and all liability in the event of structural failure or collapse.

1.6. QUALITY ASSURANCE

  • Manufacturer: Obtain system components from a manufacturer specializing in the production of vertical garden planter systems.

  • Qualifications: Installation must be performed by a contractor experienced in the successful execution of living wall and green wall systems of comparable size, scope, and complexity.

1.7. DELIVERY, STORAGE, AND HANDLING

Transport, lift, and handle units using appropriate equipment to prevent damage or excessive stress. Store products in the manufacturer’s unopened packaging in a clean, dry environment protected from weather, moisture, and staining. Store units upright; do not stack unless explicitly permitted by the manufacturer. Elevate products off the ground using non-staining pallets or temporary planking.

2. EXECUTION

2.1. EXAMINATION

Do not commence installation until all structural substrates have been properly constructed, verified plumb, and confirmed true. If substrate preparation is the responsibility of a separate contractor, notify the Architect in writing of any unsatisfactory conditions. Proceed with installation only after corrections are verified. Field-verify all dimensions prior to installation; notify the Architect if field dimensions deviate significantly from design dimensions.

2.2. PREPARATION

Clean all surfaces thoroughly prior to installation. Prepare structural mounting surfaces in accordance with manufacturer recommendations. Waterproofing: Waterproof all structural mounting surfaces using a self-adhered, rubberized, or butyl-based peel-and-stick membrane (e.g., Henry Blueskin, Grace Ice & Water Shield, or approved equal) to ensure self-sealing around all mechanical fastener penetrations.

2.3. INSTALLATION

Execute installation in accordance with applicable building codes and manufacturer specifications.

  • Custom Sizing: Trim panels to required dimensions using a utility knife and industrial shears.

  • Mounting Methods: Secure panels utilizing smooth-coated exterior deck screws, pneumatic roofing nailers, or suspend via integrated nylon hanging tabs as dictated by project structural requirements.

2.4. PROTECTION

Protect installed materials until project completion. Drape finished installations with polyethylene sheeting to prevent construction dust accumulation on the felt matrix. Repair, touch up, or replace damaged components prior to Substantial Completion.

3. PRODUCTS

3.1. MANUFACTURER

Acceptable Manufacturer: Plants On Walls / Florafelt Living Wall Systems, 13024E Green Valley Rd, Sebastopol, CA 95472, USA. Tel: +1 (707) 343-4769. Email: info@plantsonwalls.com. Websites: www.plantsonwalls.com / www.florafelt.com. Substitutions: Not permitted without formal request per Section 01600.

3.2. FELT POCKETS

Constructed from 100% recycled P.E.T. plastic non-woven fiber felt, securely mounted to P.E.T. extruded plastic backing utilizing hot-dipped galvanized steel mechanical fasteners and nylon hanging tabs.

  • 3.2.1. High tensile strength and elasticity.

  • 3.2.2. Superior thermal insulation and acoustical dampening (Noise Reduction Coefficient: 0.66).

  • 3.2.3. Structurally stable; resistant to physical breakdown and compression.

  • 3.2.4. Hypoallergenic composition.

  • 3.2.5. Mildew and odor-resistant; free of chemical irritants and carcinogens.

  • 3.2.6. Lightweight and formable.

  • 3.2.7. Flammability: Complies with FMVSS 302.

  • 3.2.8. Aesthetics: Color – Black; Surface Texture – Soft, non-woven synthetic felt.

3.3. PANEL SPECIFICATIONS

  • 3.3.1. Dimensions: Edge thickness: 1-1/2″ to 1-3/4″. Expanded pocket thickness: 4″ to 6″.

  • 3.3.2. Typical Sizes: Florafelt 12-pocket (F12): 32″ W x 24″ H (810 mm x 610 mm). Florafelt 4-pocket (F4): 12″ W x 24″ H (310 mm x 610 mm).

  • 3.3.3. Rigid Backing Board: Extruded High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) corrugated sheeting (Coroplast or approved equal); treated for rot resistance.

  • 3.3.4. Tolerances: Dimensional variation: ±1/8 inch (3 mm) maximum. Planar variation along edge/surface: ±1/16 inch per linear foot (1.5 mm per 300 mm) maximum.

3.4. SURFACE BURNING CHARACTERISTICS

Flame Spread Index: 130. Smoke Developed Index: 450 (Tested in accordance with ASTM E84-12).

3.5. WEATHER RESISTANCE

No significant tensile degradation or visual alteration following 200 hours of accelerated weathering (Tested in accordance with ASTM G23).

4. IRRIGATION

4.1. TUBING AND DISTRIBUTION

Standard supplied micro-tubing is suitable only for single-panel applications. For multi-panel installations, install a primary lateral line equipped with 0.5 GPH (1.9 L/hr) pressure-compensating drip emitters positioned at the uppermost row of pockets. Expansive installations require customized multi-zone configurations and supplemental emitter rows based on hydraulic calculations.

4.2. CONTROL SYSTEMS

Automated irrigation controls are not proprietary to the manufacturer and shall be specified independently by a qualified irrigation designer. Systems shall incorporate electromagnetic control valves, particulate filtration, pressure regulation, flow sensors, automated timers, and inline fertilizer injection assemblies.

4.3. WATER SOURCE

The Owner/General Contractor shall provide a dedicated, pressurized potable water supply stub-out, completely fitted and operational prior to planting.

4.4. DRAINAGE

The Owner/General Contractor shall construct a base drainage collection system directed to an approved sanitary sewer or stormwater connection, completely operational prior to planting.

4.5. WATER CONSERVATION

System design may incorporate effluent capture for secondary site irrigation or filtered recirculation systems to maximize water conservation.

5. LIGHTING

5.1. HORTICULTURAL LIGHTING REQUIREMENTS

Lighting must be engineered to meet the specific physiological requirements of the selected plant palette. Foliage subjected to insufficient light will fail to thrive; shade-adapted interior species subjected to high-intensity direct exposure will suffer phototoxic burn. Supplemental lighting is strictly required for environments failing to meet minimum natural daylight thresholds.

5.2. EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Full sun or partial shade applications (e.g., herbs, vegetables, grasses, succulents) require access to natural daylight achieving up to 10,000 foot-candles.

5.3. INTERIOR NATURAL LIGHTING

Low-light tropical species (understory/canopy plants) require bright, indirect daylight achieving a minimum of 250 foot-candles at an ambient temperature of approximately 70°F (21°C). Direct solar exposure must be mitigated.

5.4. ARTIFICIAL SUPPLEMENTAL LIGHTING

Where natural light is insufficient, provide high-intensity, full-spectrum horticultural LED fixtures emitting optimal photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), including essential red, blue, and UV wavelengths. Recommend a Kelvin color temperature of 4000K or greater for aesthetic natural sunlight simulation.

6. PLANTING

6.1. POCKET EXPANSION

Prior to planting, mechanically stretch each felt pocket outward using a blunt cylindrical tool to establish a nominal 2.5-inch (64 mm) opening, ensuring adequate volume for root wrapper insertion.

6.2. PANEL INTEGRATION (FLAP TUCKING)

For vertically stacked arrays, tuck the bottom felt flap of the superior panel behind the top flap of the inferior panel to establish continuous capillary moisture transfer and mitigate exterior runoff.

6.3. FLORAFELT ROOT WRAPPERS

Root wrappers are fabricated from lightweight, non-woven P.E.T. synthetic felt matching the pocket panel substrate. Wrappers facilitate capillary moisture transmission directly to the root zone while consolidating the soil mass to eliminate internal air voids. The loosely woven matrix permits root penetration through the wrap without binding, enabling modular plant arrangement, removal, and replacement without compromising system integrity. Wrappers are rot-resistant, reusable, and field-replaceable.

6.4. PLANT MODIFICATION AND ROOT ADAPTATION

The modular system accommodates ongoing plant relocation and replacement. Established plants naturally anchor into the structural felt via adventitious roots; these roots may be carefully detached during extraction. Minor root disturbance during relocation is typical and generally does not compromise plant viability.

6.5. ROOT WRAPPER ASSEMBLY AND INSTALLATION

Install precisely one Florafelt Root Wrapper per pocket. Each wrapper accommodates either one to two 4-inch (100 mm) container plants or one 6-inch (150 mm) container plant with excess soil reduced to form a flattened envelope profile. Fold wrapper flaps securely around the root ball to contain growing medium and prevent internal air voids. Secure the bundle with an elastic band and insert the package fully into the pocket until firm contact is achieved with the bottom fold for capillary wicking. Wrappers may be uninstalled, modified, and reused indefinitely for ongoing plant rotation and maintenance.

6.6. PLANTING INSTALLATION

Prior to planting, fully commission and test the irrigation system to verify uniform moisture distribution along the rear interior face and basal crease of each pocket. Verify that pocket faces remain dry to maintain root zone aeration. Seat each root-wrapped assembly firmly against the bottom fold of the pocket to establish continuous capillary contact. Capillary action transfers moisture upward through the wrapper and into the planting medium, enabling uninhibited root growth through the wrapper matrix and into the structural felt pocket.

6.7. WATER DISTRIBUTION AND IRRIGATION TIMING

Florafelt Pocket Panels operate via downward gravitational flow and passive capillary wicking, collecting moisture at the basal fold of each pocket before discharging excess water through the base drain assembly. Root wrapped assemblies must maintain continuous contact with the lower fold for capillary uptake.

  • 6.7.1. Exterior Installations: Program irrigation cycles at nominal 2-hour intervals for 1 to 10 minutes based on microclimate conditions and project scale. Calibrate timing until a slight drip is observed at the base drainage outlet at the end of each cycle to avoid excessive runoff.

  • 6.7.2. Interior Installations: Establish a baseline schedule of one 1-minute cycle per day. Increase cycle frequency incrementally (to every 12, 6, 3, or 2 hours) based on HVAC air movement, ambient humidity, and observed soil moisture before adjusting individual run durations.

7. FERTILIZER

7.1. NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

The system operates hydro-horticulturally and relies on consistent fertigation for optimal plant vigor. Implement a continuous feeding program utilizing a water-soluble, complete hydroponic fertilizer (e.g., Jack's Classic 20-20-20 All Purpose or approved equal).

7.2. FERTILIZER INJECTION SYSTEM

Integrate a volumetric, water-driven proportional dosing pump into the irrigation manifold to automatically deliver precise, diluted nutrient concentrations without supplemental electrical connections (e.g., Dosatron D25F1 for large-scale applications, or Florafelt Plant Food Injector for small-to-medium arrays).

8. MAINTENANCE

8.1. ONGOING MAINTENANCE CONTRACT

The Contractor shall strongly recommend the execution of an ongoing horticultural maintenance contract prior to project turnover. High-density vertical vegetation requires rigorous observation, including weekly visual inspections, removal of senescent biomass to maintain aesthetic integrity, and seasonal recalibration of irrigation controls. Routine preventative maintenance is critical for early issue detection and sustained system performance.

ADDENDUM: STATEMENT OF LIABILITY AND OWNER RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Structural Integrity and Assumption of Risk

    • The Florafelt System adds a significant weight load of 50 kg / sqm (10 lbs / sq ft) once installed and saturated.

    • The Owner shall obtain prior, written confirmation from a licensed Professional Engineer certifying that the mounting structure is capable of bearing the additional load of the Florafelt System.

    • The Owner acknowledges and agrees that the Certified Dealer and Manufacturer are absolved of any and all liability in the event of structural failure or collapse.

  • Substrate Preparation and Waterproofing

    • The Owner and Installer are jointly responsible for ensuring that all substrates are properly constructed, plumb, and true prior to installation.

    • If substrate preparation is executed by an independent contractor, the Architect must be notified of any unsatisfactory conditions, and installation shall be suspended until remediation is complete.

    • All structural surfaces must be thoroughly cleaned and waterproofed using manufacturer-approved, self-adhered peel-and-stick membranes.

  • Irrigation, Drainage, and Water Damage

    • Irrigation components and controls are not provided by the Manufacturer and must be independently specified, procured, and customized for each site.

    • The Owner must provide an operational water supply and ensure base drainage infrastructure is connected to an approved sewer system prior to planting.

    • The Owner assumes full responsibility for monitoring irrigation cycles and effluent runoff to prevent structural flooding and water waste.

  • Plant Health, Feeding, and Maintenance

    • The Owner must incorporate a fertilizer injector system to provide mandatory regular feeding.

    • The Owner must ensure the provision of adequate horticultural lighting (natural or artificial LED); failure to do so will result in plant death.

    • The Owner acknowledges that living walls require continuous environmental observation, seasonal mechanical adjustments, and professional ongoing maintenance to guarantee system viability.