Some hanging plants require more care than others; if you are starved for time, think about going with plants or flowers that require less upkeep. Ask yourself:
- Does the plant require deadheading?
- Does it wilt quickly?
- Does it need a lot of fertilizer?
- Can it tolerate the heat/drought?
Choose a hanging basket
Hanging baskets are available in various shapes, sizes and designs. Hanging wire baskets, wooden hanging baskets and woven hanging baskets are among the more popular designs. Choose a style and material that works well with the surrounding décor and what compliments and highlights the types of plants you expect to grow.
Another note of importance, pick a large enough basket to accommodate the plant and the growth of its roots. Larger plants have larger and longer roots, so larger baskets will be necessary.
Line the basket
Hanging basket liners keep the soil in place and reduce the amount of watering plants require. Coconut fibers and sphagnum mosses are two of the more popular materials used to line hanging baskets. These materials retain water but prevent your plant from becoming overwatered due to their effective drainage qualities.
Plant Your Basket
Fill a mixture of premium potting soil with a generous amount of slow-release fertilizer in your basket before planting. Nutrients in the potting soil naturally disperse as you water; this is where the fertilizer comes into play. It feeds your plants over a long period of time without worry of soil washed out of nutrients.
Pick a Good Spot
Hanging planters serve multiple purposes from extra gardening space to hiding something ugly. Some homeowners use planters to brighten up a space or just because they like the idea of their home decorated with flowers. Pick a spot that allows for ease of watering but also the right amount of sunlight. Be aware that most plants cannot survive full exposure to the sun or not get enough sunlight at all.
Hang Your Basket
Sturdy chains and sturdy hooks are very important for supporting the weight of the hanging basket. Don’t forget a basket full of wet soil weighs more than one with dry soil. Check the quality and condition of your chain, hook, and anchor before hanging anything on them.
Keep your basket watered
Factors like temperatures, plant type and style of basket are all factors to consider when judging how much water to use. Feel the bottom of your liner and if it is dry and rough, give the plant a good watering. Watering cans with high nozzles work best, especially for baskets in hard to reach places.
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