Tips for Hanging Basket Plants
Hanging baskets can transform an ordinary porch, filling it with color and aroma and bringing it to life. But you need to select hanging basket plants and liners that not only look good, but that will also thrive. Here are some tips to help you choose, plant and maintain hanging basket plants successfully.
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Check the conditions on your porch before you choose your hanging basket plants and liners. Is it north or south facing? How much sun does it get? How sheltered is it from the wind? Take these factors into account when you choose your hanging basket plants.
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When you plant hanging basket planters, use the best potting mix you can afford. You can use good quality potting soil or a specially formulated mix with a slow-release fertilizer that will guarantee your hanging basket plants get an ongoing supply of nutrients.
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Liners for hanging basket plants are also important. Line them with biodegradable coco fiber or plastic saucer types to help retain moisture and insulate the soil. Natural coco liners are guaranteed to help hanging basket plants to grow and flourish, as long as they're watered properly.
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A good way to keep your hanging basket plants looking good all year round is to replant new annuals every spring. This is also a good way to change the appearance of your hanging basket plants. If some hanging basket plants die and leave gaps in the planter, replace them as soon as possible.
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Always include trailing plants with other hanging basket plants to create depth and movement. The spider plant is a favorite.
Porch Decorating FAQs
Q: What sort of hanging planters work best
on a porch?
A: There is such a huge choice in terms of materials, styles and sizes for hanging planters, it really a is personal choice. Typically it looks best to have a collection of hanging planters with a specific design pattern of the same type to create a sense of unity.
Q: Are self-watering hanging planters available?
A: Yes, indeed they are, and they are great for hanging on porches but can sometimes be costly.
Q: Is it a good idea to use planter liners for hanging planters?
A: Yes, it is essential if you use hanging planters or baskets to decorate your porch.
Q: Can I grow vegetables in hanging planters?
A: Absolutely. Summer vegetables in particular can look stunning in hanging planters. Tomatoes look dramatic and creeping herbs look pretty and smell great.
Q: Can I mix different types of plants in my hanging planters?
A: Yes, you can, and in fact I recommend that you do. Consider mixing perennials like ivy with annuals like alyssum, lobelia, petunias, phlox and pansies. Just be careful to take colors into account. You can even mix different foliage plants together in hanging planters.
Q: What is the best way to keep your hanging planters hydrated?
A: It depends on what types of hanging planters you have, what type of liners you use, and your sun exposure. Some who use solid hanging planter containers will plunge the base of the container in water and let it soak through and then remove and drain the excess water before hanging.
Others depending on the height of the hanging planters, water the plants with a watering can while hanging or take down the hanging planters first before watering them so as not to cause any accidents.
