Hanging baskets are a beautiful way to bring colour to your outside space. Whether you're brightening up a front porch or creating a stunning display in your garden, they can be a real showstopper without taking up valuable ground space.
But with so many plant choices available, what are the best plants for hanging baskets? Discover how to create a beautiful hanging basket in this informative guide.
What are the best plants for hanging baskets?
Choosing the right plants for hanging baskets is key to creating a show-stopping hanging basket.
Here are our top plant recommendations for hanging baskets.
Petunias
Petunias are one of the most popular hanging basket plants. They have it all - large blooms, a lovely scent and a fantastic mix of trailing and compact habits. They're also available in a wide range of colours.
When to plant Petunias outdoors: The last cold day of the year is usually between April and May when the daytime temperature is between 15 and 25 degrees.
Geraniums
Geraniums are usually a traditional bedding plant; however, they work well in hanging baskets. The plants in this mix cascade down to 90cm and will overspill your baskets to create an impactful arrangement all summer!
When to plant Geraniums outdoors: Plant geraniums during late spring around May and June when the temperature varies between 15 and 24 degrees daily.
Ivy
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Ivy is a trailing plant that gives a traditional English feel. Its evergreen leaves create a cascading effect in hanging baskets and with little maintenance required, this plant looks effortlessly beautiful.
When to plant Ivy outdoors: Plant Ivy during early spring around April and May when the temperature outdoors is between 10 and 20 degrees.
Nasturtiums
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Nasturtiums can quickly fill up hanging baskets with colour, trailing over the sides with beautiful colours. They're a great option if you like growing flowers from seed or enjoy fiery red and orange displays!
When to plant nasturtiums outdoors: Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost then transplant outside in late spring.
Fuchsia
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Fuchsias make fantastic hanging basket plants as trailing varieties display gorgeous blooms that make bold displays.
Can you plant fruit and veg in hanging baskets?
You can also grow fruit and vegetables in hanging baskets such as strawberries and tomatoes. What's better than a cascading basket full of tatsy veg?
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What to buy to make your own hanging basket
Making your own hanging basket is simple, here are the materials you need:
Hanging basket frame
There are three different types of hanging basket frames.
- Weave baskets: These tend to come pre-lined with plastic or coco fibre.
- Metal frames: A metal frame that doesn't include a liner.
- Plastic balcony pots: Plastic balcony pots are a great alternative creating a hanging basket effect on balconies or over fences.
Hanging basket liners
Next, you'll need a basket liner. This is what sits in the hanging basket frame and is filled with compost. Coco liners are a popular choice as they're breathable, or moss that molds to fit the container's shape.
Hanging basket chain and crooks
You'll also need a wall hook for the hanging basket to hang from and a chain if the basket doesn't have one. A durable chain ensures that the basket can support the weight of the plant, soil and water - we recommend choosing a rust-resistant chain for all weather protection.
Potting mix
Hanging baskets require high-quality compost to keep flowers thriving all summer long. We recommend a moisture-control compost that prevents your baskets from drying out and provides essential nutrients through slow release feed.
Hanging basket plants
Of course you'll need plants! Plug plants are a great option and can often be purchased from March onwards. Simply pot them on until they're more established and when the weather gets warmer around May, they're be ready for planting!
Watering can
Hanging baskets need regular watering so invest in a good watering can or a hose attachment.
How to plant your hanging basket
Now you have all of your materials, here's a step by step guide on how to assemble your hanging basket.
STEP 1: Find the right spot for your hanging basket
Think carefully about where your hanging basket is going to be installed. Choose a sunny spot such as either side of a door or on wall -make sure it's well above head height to avoid accidents!
STEP 2: Install your hanging basket hook
Drill your hook into your desired spot. Don't install it too high as you need to be able to reach it easily when watering!
STEP 3: Add potting mix to the liner
Add a layer of compost to the bottom of the lined basket.
STEP 4: Planting the basket
Remove your plants from their pots and plant them in the soil. Don't worry about spacing them out too much as you can pack multiple plants into your basket for a dense look. For more of a trailing effect, cut hole in the liner and poke your plants through so they cascade out.
STEP 5: Water the plants
Give your plants a good water, aiming to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
How to keep your hanging baskets thriving
Once your hanging basket is done, it's all about maintenance. Here are some top tips to keep your baskets thriving:
Water your basket regularly
In the summer, watering your hanging baskets daily is essential as they can dry out quickly. Watering in the morning is best as this ensures they have enough moisture and can stay hydrated through the hottest hours of the day.
Use a plant food
If you want huge, impressive displays then using plant fertiliser will give your hanging baskets an extra boost of nutrition. Plant food can be used every two weeks.
Prune your flowers to encourage more growth
Deadheading your flowers will encourage more blooms. Use garden snips to remove fading or dead flowers as this will tricks plants into flower over a long season.
Creating your own hanging baskets is a fun way of adding a pop of colour to your garden with an amazing display. Remember, you can find everything you need in-store and online!