Illinois Gardener Tips
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Hanging Baskets
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Overview
Hanging baskets are great for non-traditional gardens, on your porch, patio or any area that could accommodate the basket. The main characteristics of the hanging basket are that it spreads out and trails down over the edge of the basket. It should be full and bushy in appearance, and a vining growth habit. Do not use plants that have an upright growth habit.
Some plants that do well in hanging baskets are the Ivy League geranium, Black-eyed Susan vine, Dahlberg daisy, coleus, and the cloud or cascade petunia.
Planting Tips
Any container that can be hung or suspended can be used. If you reuse an old container, be sure to sterilize it in a bleach/water solution. Just dip the container in the solution before filling it with it with a combination of soil-less and soil mix.
We use the combination because soil has better water holding capacity than soil-less. This will help in keeping the plant from drying out. With any plant you should monitor the moisture level of the soil carefully, making sure it doesn't get too moist or too dry.
Place plants around the outer edge of the container and then place some of the taller plants in the center. Make holes where you want to place the plants. Remove any brown or dead foliage from the plant. Place the plant into the hole in the soil, at the same level it was in its previous container. Repeat the process for each plant.
Finally, pinch off and remove any flower or bud that may be on the plant. This will stimulate more foliage growth. Water and fertilize as it bushes out. Pinch it back a little more. When temperatures get up to about 60 degrees at night, put the plant outside and enjoy a wonderful hanging basket all summer long.
See also Pruning Basics |
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