The Tip You Need To Know To Successfully Grow Flowers In Hanging Baskets

If you're searching for a stunning addition to your patio or front porch, hanging baskets are an excellent way to elevate your outdoor space. But sometimes, the pre-made arrangements aren't exactly what you're looking for. Instead of sticking with these basic baskets, consider picking out your own hanging basket flowers and creating your own arrangement. Not only can crafting your own hanging flower basket save you money, but it also gives you the freedom to completely customize your arrangement. However, if you have large gaps in your basket, you should always remember to use a plastic liner for better water retention. 

Put your basket together right after the last frost. For this project, you'll need a basket, soil, a plastic liner, and plants. A coco coir liner in a wire basket is a great base to start with. You can also use other baskets as long as they're lightweight. Either way, you should opt for a bigger basket when possible to help foster better water retention. It's crucial to line the inside of your baskets with something like a plastic bag to aid in retaining water. Puncture the lining with small holes to allow for drainage and air flow. This will keep your plant moist but not too wet. 

It's also important to use lightweight, well-drained soil for your hanging basket. You can buy soil specifically formulated for containers and hanging baskets or create your own mix. A simple formula you can try is two parts coco coir, one part perlite, and one part compost. You can customize this with specific plant needs in mind. Add slow-release fertilizer or worm casting for an extra boost of nutrients for heavy feeders. You can also increase moisture retention by adding soil enhancers such as polymer crystals or hydrogels.

Now comes the fun part: Creating your arrangement. Plants with similar care need to be given the best chance at thriving together. You can also select one plant for a simple look. If you're having a hard time coming up with a basket combination you love, follow this key formula: Thriller, filler, and spiller. This method encourages you to select a focal thriller, mounding filler, and trailing spiller.

Start by transplanting your focal plant. This should be an eye-catching upright flower with a long blooming period. Petunias, nemesias, and double calibrachoas are all excellent candidates. Next, fill in the basket with trailing and lower-growing plants. These plants serve to offer visual interest and create balance. Some great candidates for these supporting plants include lobelia, sweet alyssum, or nasturtium. Play around with the composition until you're satisfied. If you're hoping to achieve a full look faster, side-plant a few small spiller plant cuttings. Carefully cut slits on the side of your coco coir liner and plastic liner. Insert the plant plugs. This can help create a more robust arrangement. 

Once all your plants are in place, water the basket deeply. The liner will help keep your plant moist, but you'll still need to water your basket once or twice a day. This is the most vital tip to follow since container plants tend to dry out faster. Hanging baskets frequently succumb to underwatering. The best method for watering hanging baskets is using an extended watering can or watering wand and dousing it until you see water dripping from the bottom. You can keep your hanging basket looking full and beautiful by fertilizing it throughout the growing season. Follow these tips and your basket should thrive!