How to grow spectacular hanging baskets

Choose a large basket

This will help to retain moisture as well as allowing space for root growth. The downside of a larger basket is that it will be heavier so make sure hanging hooks and brackets are firmly fixed and always get help with lifting. Discover the delights of container gardening!

Use premium potting mix

Always use a premium potting mix because it has fertiliser and wetting agents to keep the basket from drying out. If you’re using a wire basket with a coir insert, line the coir with a thick layer of newspaper to help retain moisture.  

Select plants with similar needs

If you’re grouping plants together in the same container, make sure they all have the same sun and water requirements. When planting your basket, vary the heights and textures of your plants to create interest.  

Location, location, location!

Find the perfect spot to hang your basket so that it gets enough sunlight, but not too much that it will dry out your plants. A shaded area with some filtered sunlight is ideal. Avoid exposure to wind as this will dry the soil out even faster as well as damaging delicate plants.

Move baskets before watering so they are not as heavy.

Water regularly

Depending upon your choice of plant you may need to water daily in very hot weather. If you have reticulation, attach a dripper line above your hanging basket and let it do most of the work for you. If the basket has dried out completely, take it down and submerge it in water up to the top of the soil level. Leave for an hour or two then let it drain well before rehanging.

Use a soluble fertiliser

Give hungry plants a half-strength dose of soluble fertiliser every couple of weeks to give them a boost. Add the fertiliser after watering and avoid getting it on any foliage.

Popular choices for baskets

Colourful

Classic choices for maximum colour include Calibrachoa, Fuchsia, Geranium, Lobelia, Pansy, Petunia, and Vinca. Flowers to plant for winter colour

Native baskets

Native groundcovers look great trailing over the sides of baskets. There are plenty to choose from - try Scaevola, Convolvulus, and Dampiera diversifolia.

Herbs

Mediterranean herbs like mint, oregano and thyme are perfect for hanging baskets (especially as mint can take over if planted in garden beds). Keep them trimmed to encourage constant new growth. Herbs you can grow in winter  

Ferns

Group together for variety in leaf shape and texture. Plant in a shady spot in the garden once they out-grow the basket.

Hanging baskets - not just for flowers!

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