Hanging baskets are a vibrant and versatile addition to any décor collection. A beautiful basket overflowing with cascading blooms is an exceptional way to bring life and cheer to balconies, patios, and even indoor spaces.

The best part? They’re incredibly fun and easy to plant! Not only will you enjoy a stunning aerial planter that enhances your curb appeal, you’ll also relish the experience of designing and planting your hanging container garden!

The Beauty of Hanging Baskets:

Hanging baskets are terrific planters, with benefits for both the décor-enthusiast and the avid gardener:

• Focal Point Power: A well-designed hanging basket can become the focal point of your outdoor space, drawing the eye upwards and adding a touch of drama.

• Limited Space Savior:They're ideal for maximizing vertical space, especially on balconies or patios with limited square footage. Hanging them up keeps walkways clear and creates a layered effect with other potted plants.
• Versatility:Hanging baskets can accommodate a wide variety of plants, from cascading vines like petunias to vibrant flowering fuchsias. You can even create themed baskets with herbs or vegetables for a touch of functionality.

Gather Your Materials:

First, collect the tools and materials you'll need:

• Hanging Basket: Opt for a sturdy basket with a metal frame for better support. Choose a size that complements your space – larger baskets, like the one shown below, are show-stoppers with a lot of room for planting. However, they also require more plants and weigh more when full.

We love the aesthetic of our English Garden Hanging Baskets, like the one above. They feature a liner made from real coconut coir, which is the space between the shell and milk of the coconut. This liner adds a natural and organic appeal while the handcrafted iron frame adds stylish elegance.

• Potting Mix: Select a lightweight, well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for container gardening. Choose a variety with a slow-release fertilizer, or buy plant food separately.
• Hook or Bracket (for hanging): Ensure it can support the weight of the fully planted basket.
• Self-Watering Reservoir (optional):Add a self-watering reservoir to your basket to keep your plants healthy with minimal maintenance! This is particularly helpful if your hanging basket is in an area that’s hard to reach, making daily watering inconvenient.

Pick Your Plants:

Now comes the fun part: choosing the stars of your hanging basket display! This is where you can get creative and design a masterpiece that reflects your style. Here are some things to consider:

• Color Scheme: Do you want a riot of color or a more calming monochromatic palette? If you’re unsure, it’s always safe to choose one color to use in your basket. You can add different shades of this color, along with accents of white flowers and green foliage.

• Flower Power: Think about the type of flowers you love. Do you prefer delicate trailing blooms or bold, upright varieties? Maybe a combination of both would be perfect! Popular choices for hanging baskets include petunias, verbena, lobelia, million bells, bacopa, calibrachoa, and fuchsia. Don't forget about herbs! Trailing thyme or oregano can add a touch of fragrance and practicality.
• Thriving Together: Remember to choose plants with similar water and sunlight needs. This will ensure they all flourish in your hanging basket.

Pro Tip: Don't be afraid to experiment! Mixing and matching different flower shapes, sizes, and textures can create a truly stunning display. Visit your local nursery or garden center and browse their selection – the staff can offer guidance based on your light conditions and desired look.

Plant Your Hanging Basket:

Now it’s time to put it all together. Here are the steps to planting your basket:

1.Prep the Basket:

• If using a metal basket with a coco liner, place the coco coir liner into the metal frame. Otherwise, assemble your basket according to the manufacturers instructions.
• If using a metal basket with a coco liner, place an optional fiberglass liner (for extra sturdiness and to increase longevity of the liner)
• If your basket doesn't have a liner, line it with landscaping fabric to prevent soil from leaking out.
• Add your self-watering reservoir
• Fill your basket with soil

2.Planting Time:

• First, add the upright plants in the center of your basket. Carefully loosen the roots of your plants and gently tease them apart.

• Next, place your trailing plants around the outer edge of the basket, allowing the vines to drape over the sides.

• Finally, fill in any gaps with filler plants.

3.Finishing Touches:

• Add extra soil as needed to ensure all the roots are covered. Firm the soil down gently to remove air pockets.
• Optionally, top the basket with a layer of decorative moss or mulch to retain moisture and add a finished look.

4.Water Deeply: Water the basket thoroughly until water drains freely from the bottom. This ensures the root balls are saturated.

Hanging with Care:

1.Choose the Perfect Spot: Select a location with ample sunlight for the light requirements of your chosen plants. Avoid placing them in areas with strong winds that could damage the basket or flowers.

2.Hook it Up: Hang the basket securely using a sturdy hook or bracket. Ensure it's level and won't swing excessively in the wind.

And that’s it! We hope you enjoy the experience of designing and crafting your very own hanging basket and savor your new décor piece all the way until first frost!