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What plants best for hanging baskets


Top 10 Hanging Basket Plants

There's nothing quite as captivating as a well-kept entrance flanked by a pair of exuberantly overflowing hanging baskets. Filled with colour, texture and scent, baskets are a great way to brighten up sheds, garages, fences and patios. Once you’ve chosen from the wide range of hanging basket hardware available, it’s really easy to order trays of annual bedding plants and create colourful themed displays. And if you prefer perennials, there are plenty of options for long-lasting interest. 

Here are ten of our favourite hanging basket plants to help you make a real statement:

  1. Begonia x tuberhybrida
  2. Fuchsias
  3. Petunias
  4. Bacopa
  5. Lobelia
  6. Calibrachoa
  7. Geraniums (Pelargoniums)
  8. Osteospermum
  9. Nasturtiums
  10. Verbena

Read on to find out why each of these plants won a place in our coveted top ten, or browse our full range of basket and container annuals for even more choice.

Begonia x tuberhybrida varieties produce huge flowers
Image: Pre-planted Begonia x tuberhybrida 'Apricot Shade Improved' basket from Thompson & Morgan

Begonia x tuberhybrida plants are shade tolerant, so a great basket choice for the darker side of the house. These Begonias produce huge blooms, often with exciting double rows of petals and impressive picotee detailing. Fill your basket with Begonia x tuberhybrida plug plants and hang it under cover for a week or two to allow your plants to establish. These Begonias bloom in any weather throughout summer.

Go for Begonia x tuberhybrida 'Non-stop Mocca’ for its lovely dark foliage and different coloured blooms or choose Begonia x tuberhybrida ‘Majestic Mixed’ for giant double blooms that reach up to 20cm across. 

Garden-ready option: Pre-planted Begonia x tuberhybrida ‘Apricot Shade Improved’ basket.

New Fuchsia 'Eruption' is the perfect hanging basket perennial
Image: Fuchsia 'Eruption' from Thompson & Morgan

Fuchsias make fantastic hanging basket plants! In fact, compact trailing varieties display their huge blooms to best advantage from below. Excellent value for money, these semi-hardy perennials provide an extravagant show for many years, provided they’re overwintered in a frost-free place. 

Try Fuchsia Giant-Flowered Collection with blooms up to 10cm across, or Fuchsia ‘Eruption’ for a dramatic blaze of slender, fiery pink flowers from trailing stems. 

Garden-ready option: Pre-planted Fuchsia ‘Trailing Mixed’ basket.

Petunia 'Amore™ Queen of Hearts' flowers throughout the summer
Image: Petunia 'Amore™ Queen of Hearts' from Thompson & Morgan

Petunias have it all - large blooms, a lovely scent, lush foliage and a fantastic mix of trailing and compact habits. With bold block colours and fun picotee flowers, Petunias put on a fantastic show in hanging baskets all throughout the summer. 

Petunia 'Back to Black’ is a new variety with striking, velvety black blooms that reach a height and spread of 30cm. For something brighter, try the extra special Petunia 'Amore™ Queen of Hearts' which features five clear red love hearts against a background of pure yellow.  

Garden-ready option: Pre-planted petunia 'Frills & Spills™ Mixed’ pre-planted basket

Bacopa is a great addition to hanging baskets for softening displays
Image: Bacopa 'Snowtopia' from Thompson & Morgan

Bacopa is a valuable plant in hanging baskets. It’s easy to grow and the flower-covered stems trail down to well over 45cm. These dainty, yet incredibly tough plants are the perfect way to add volume to colour-themed baskets or mixed displays. 

Go for Bacopa 'Baristo® Pink' for delicate pastel pink blooms or Bacopa 'Baristo® Blue' for baby blue. Our favourite for hanging baskets is classic white - Bacopa ‘Snowflake’ can be combined with any other coloured flower or planted alone for an unusual and elegant display.

Lobelia is an impressive annual that produces airy foliage and clouds of delicate flowers in white, pink or blue during the summer months. A great way to fill out mixed baskets, these versatile blooms provide the perfect backdrop to other bedding plants.  

For a dazzling cascade of violet-blue flowers, try Lobelia 'Monsoon'. And for a slightly more compact variety, Lobelia ‘White Lady’ produces pretty white flowers that spread to 20cm, ideal for planting around the edge or underside of a basket.

Calibrachoa Calita 'Million Bells Red' is extremely fast-growing
Image: Calibrachoa 'Million Bells Red' from Thompson & Morgan

These ‘miniature petunias’ are prolific bloomers, producing a long-lasting display in a glorious range of colours. Calibrachoa are vigorous, weather-proof and grow well in sun or shade, making them an ideal choice for trickier parts of the garden. They don't even need dead-heading - they literally look after themselves! 

For a bold hanging basket display, go for Calibrachoa ‘Million Bells Red’ which produces clouds of scarlet flowers. And for a fun kaleidoscope of summer colour, try Calibrachoa ‘Million Bells Mix’ which, as its name suggests, contains a mixture of our popular ‘Million Bells’ series in mauve, yellow, white and pink.  

Geranium 'GeRainbow Mixed' provides a classic combination of complementary coloured blooms
Image: Geranium 'GeRainbow Mixed' from Thompson & Morgan

Geraniums are classic bedding plants for a reason. Drought tolerant and tough, these tender perennials will flower again the following year if protected from frost. Available in a wide range of colours from fiery reds to delicate pastels, the variety of leaf shapes and scents are another reason they’re such a popular choice.

Geranium 'Best Red' F1 Hybrid is an upright variety with eye-catching red blooms that evoke hot Mediterranean summers. For a softer look, try trailing ivy-leaf geranium 'GeRainbow Mixed'. The plants in this mix cascade down to 90cm, showcasing dark green, ivy-shaped leaves and large clusters of flowers from June to October. For something a little different, our geranium 'Rosebud Collection' features thicker double blooms, trailing down to at least 45cm, which open just like miniature rosebuds.

Garden-ready option: pre-planted geranium 'Balcon Mix' basket.

Osteospermum 'Purple Sun' was shortlisted for Chelsea Plant of the Year 2019
Image: Osteospermum 'Purple Sun' from Thompson & Morgan

Naturally drought tolerant, Osteospermums (or African daisies) are tough plants that love sunny, south-facing positions. Forming attractive balls of colour, newer varieties have been bred with a trailing habit, making them ideal for hanging baskets. 

Osteospermum ‘Falling Stars™' is the first cascading African daisy, trailing to 45cm. A mix of three different and vivid colours, these bright blooms have excellent staying power in summer hanging baskets. Reaching a height of 30cm, Osteospermum ‘Purple Sun’ makes another vibrant choice for your baskets. Smothering the dark green foliage from June to October, it’s no surprise that these bright blooms were shortlisted for Chelsea Plant of the Year in 2019. 

Nasturtium 'Troika Spotty Dotty' trails up to 100cm
Image: Nasturtium 'Troika Spotty Dotty' from Thompson & Morgan

If you like to sow your own flower seeds rather than buying plugs or plants, nasturtiums are an excellent choice. From sowing to flowering takes about three months. Although orange is one of the best known colours, nasturtiums come in a wide range of hues from creamy white through to deep maroon. 

For a compact display, go for nasturtium ‘Chameleon'. Not only do the flowers look like exotic orchids, they also change colour every few days! Nasturtium 'Troika Spotty Dotty' and Nasturtium majus 'Orange Troika' both trail down to over 1m long, producing masses of golden yellow and orange blooms with striking red flashes inside. 

Verbena plants produce compact brightly coloured blooms
Image: Verbena 'Quartz Mixed' from Thompson & Morgan

Add Verbena to your hanging baskets for trailing foliage with gorgeous colour. These totally carefree, easy to grow plants provide a stunning mix of shades. Gently spilling over the edge of your basket, they tend to have a more compact growing habit, spreading to about 20-30cm. They also show excellent resistance to mildew.

Go for Verbena 'Quartz Mixed' if you’re looking for a loud mix of bright colours. For something more subtle, or to complement a mixed basket scheme, try the elegant blush pink and white flowers of Verbena ‘Samira Pink Wing’.

How to plant a hanging basket video

This helpful video provides a step-by-step guide to planting up a hanging basket. Get your plants off to the best start by using the right compost, and positioning your plants to show them off to their best. These frequently asked questions provide some good pointers:

Which plants are best for a hanging basket?

Trailing plants like petunias, verbena and calibrachoa are best for planting your hanging basket. They cascade over the basket sides, where their flowers can be easily seen from below.

When can I put my hanging basket outside?

Put your hanging basket outside after the last frost date. This may be early May for those in the South, or late May for gardeners in the far north of the UK.

What should I do with my hanging basket after summer?

After summer, empty your hanging basket of annual plants and dispose of them. Move tender perennial hanging basket displays into a sheltered place to overwinter before the first frosts arrive. With a little luck, they should flower again the following year.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our top ten hanging basket plants. Share your fabulous hanging display with us via Twitter or Instagram, using #MyTMGarden. For even more information and advice, head to our hanging basket hub page.

Best plants for hanging baskets: 17 stunning ideas

(Image credit: Suntory Flowers)

When choosing the best plants for hanging baskets, embrace the opportunity to get creative with color and texture.

Hanging baskets are some of the most eye-catching garden ideas, and are vital for adding interest to the vertical plane as part of your container gardening ideas.  

As well as brightening up walls and fences, they make fantastic pergola ideas, and create a striking first impression at the front of a house, so be sure to include them in your front garden ideas too.

'In outdoor spaces, hanging baskets can add to a welcoming curb appeal or beautify a patio or entertaining area. Indoors, they can even improve the air quality and step up your home décor by bringing the outdoors in,' says Rebecca Sears, chief gardening guru for heritage seed and plant brand Ferry Morse . 

'One of the many delightful characteristics of hanging baskets is that you can move them around, playing with sun exposure and balancing the different colors and décor in your space. 

'Many of the options out there will have a long season of bloom, ensuring vibrant color for several months of the year.'

Make sure you know how to plant a hanging basket to get the best out of them.

(Image credit: Pelargonium for Europe)

How to choose the best plants for hanging baskets

'A good rule of thumb when selecting the best plants for hanging baskets is to include a thriller, a filler, and a spiller,' says Lisa Whittlesey, a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service specialist for horticulture.  

'Finding plants that fall into these three categories will create lovely hanging baskets that are sure to be the envy of all your neighbors.'

Thriller plants are the real standouts of your hanging baskets, often adding height and drawing the eye. 'Think about large and colorful blooms,' says Whittlesey.

As their name suggests, filler plants will help to fill in your hanging basket, and are often more low-key. Go for foliage plants, or mists of dainty blooms.

Finally, spiller plants such as vines trail or tumble over the edge of the hanging basket. 'The spillers add drama and size to the basket,' adds Whittlsey. Choose the best trailing plants for hanging baskets.

'It is good to consider plants that are adapted to your climate and have similar light and water requirements. This will ensure that your thrillers, fillers, and spillers will be happy together in their hanging basket home.'

However, don't be afraid to plant up a hanging basket with just one beautiful variety, which can make a striking feature.

Bear in mind that hanging baskets need not just be reserved for the summer. As well as evergreen plants, there are some beautiful winter hanging basket ideas to add vibrancy in the darkest months of the year.

Perennial plants for hanging baskets

Perennials are the best plants for hanging baskets if you want containers that will last for several years, rather than having to plant up new ones every year.

Bear in mind that some perennials will not cope with frost, so you will need to bring these varieties indoors over winter if you want them to keep coming back.

1. Geraniums

(Image credit: Pelargonium for Europe)

Geraniums are hugely popular hanging basket plants, and for good reason. 

‘Available in a wide variety of colors to satisfy any palette, they are go-to plants for adding vibrancy and are capable of providing multi-season blooms when given enough sun, water and fertilizer,’ says Ryan Benoit, founder of hanging basket system SkyPots .  

Geraniums are hardy perennials, and are a good choice for low-maintenance hanging baskets. They are closely related to pelargoniums, which are also popular for hanging baskets, although they are more tender, so grown as annuals.

Sears particularly favors ivy leaf geraniums for hanging baskets.

‘The Mini Cascade ivy geranium is an easy-to-grow option that requires minimal work and boasts a stunning display of bright color,’ she says. 

‘These ivy leaf geraniums grow best in full sun and feature an abundance of single flowers with small green leaves that gently cascade over the edge of hanging baskets, filling them out beautifully.’

If you have a sunny window that receives plenty of light, geraniums also make wonderful indoor plants.

Learn how to overwinter geraniums to keep them blooming year after year.

2. Fuchsias

(Image credit: Future)

‘Fuchsias make excellent hanging flower baskets,’ says Marjory Wildcraft, founder of The Grow Network .  

‘They are tough, not requiring much attention at all to grow to their full potential and easily fill a basket. They’re also beautiful, exotic-looking flowers that can brighten up any room or balcony.’

One of the main benefits of fuchsias is that they are perennials, meaning they will last for multiple seasons.

However, they are only half-hardy, so in cold climates will need you will need to know how to overwinter fuchsias. ’As long as you keep them out of frost during the offseason, they will grow back again the following year,’ says Wildcraft.

3. Erigeron karvinskianus

(Image credit: Sarah Raven)

A daisy-like perennial flower, erigeron karvinskianus is also a prolific self-seeder – but this is rarely a problem, as plantswoman Sarah Raven explains: ‘It just behaves in a really lovely discreet and pretty way, and you get these clouds of daisy flowers.’

The plant makes a charming addition to pots and borders – perfect for your cottage garden ideas – and makes for the most romantic hanging baskets.

‘If it gets a bit tired, give it a haircut and it springs back into life and flowers immediately again,’ adds Raven.

4. Calibrachoa

(Image credit: Suntory Flowers)

‘A miniature variety of petunia often known as million bells, these lush flowering basket plants are very much in vogue,’ says Nikita, founder of Mit City Farm .

‘Calibrachoa endure summer drizzles easily and grow well in both sun and shade, hence they are ideal for livening up dull areas.’

While Calibrachoa are perennials, they are tender, so you will need to overwinter them in a greenhouse or conservatory unless you live in a warmer area. However, they are hardy in USDA zones 9-11, and often survive cutting back and mulching to overwinter them in zones 7 and 8.

'Mini Rosebud Romantic Peachy is a variety with exquisite flowers of peach and pink, or for a multi-hued splash of colors, Minitunia Kabloom Mixed is also a great choice, bursting with colors during the summer,’ adds Nikita.

5. Dianthus

(Image credit: Future)

Also known as pinks, these blousy flowers are surprisingly hardy perennials – though they are short-lived, needing replacing after a few years. Luckily, they are easy to propagate from cuttings.

Perhaps what is most appealing about dianthus is its delightful scent. ‘The extremely fragrant dainty dianthus is reminiscent of spicy cloves and vanilla,’ says Period Living’s gardening expert Leigh Clapp.

Grow dianthus in full sun or partial shade, and cut back in the fall.

Best plants for hanging baskets in full sun

'One important point to consider is how much sun your hanging basket will receive as some plants will grow best in full sun, while others may still be able to thrive in partial sun,' says Spears.

Sun-loving hanging basket plants are often particularly vibrant, and many are tolerant of heat and drought.

1. Petunias

(Image credit: Getty Images)

‘Petunias are a great choice for hanging baskets,’ says Wildcraft. ‘Aesthetically, they offer simple, minimalist beauty, normally available in only single or double color schemes. The way the plant hangs keeps tons of flowers on display – there's no wasted flora here.’

Sears especially rates Easy Wave spreading petunias. 'They offer eye-catching color in a full, lush and mound-forming display. ‘Spreading’ is in its name for good reason too – these petunias spread and trail very fast in baskets and landscapes that receive full sun, creating that ‘wave’ effect of showstopping color.’

Petunias are fairly easy to care for, but they really do need lots of sun in order to thrive. They do well in periods of heat and drought. 

Make sure you know how to deadhead petunias to maximize blooms.

2. Osteospermum

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Offering colorful daisy-like blooms from summer through fall, osteospermums make a fantastic addition to hanging baskets. They come in a wide range of colors, and are also attractive to pollinators.

As tender perennials native to Africa and the Middle East, osteospermums will die over winter in colder climates, but you can take cuttings to grow them on the following year.

Deadhead regularly to prolong the flowering time.

3. Verbena

(Image credit: Alamy)

Verbena is a classic choice for hanging baskets, and comes in a range of colors, most notably pinks and purples.

Choose from upright verbenas to make an impactful ‘thriller’ plant in your hanging basket display, or choose a trailing variety to spill over the sides.

Bear in mind that verbena needs full sun for much of the day in order to thrive. 

4. Begonias

(Image credit: Alamy)

Available in a wide choice of colors, begonias are popular flowers for hanging baskets, and they will bloom all season long.

‘Begonias give a full, drooping effect to your hanging baskets,’ says Nikita. ‘With big blousy blooms that trail from the thick stems, begonia x tuberhybrida are one of the most popular hanging plants. Easy to grow, they will provide you a full season of color.

‘I really like Apricot Shades Improved, a variety of begonia that trails down over 18 inches and will keep on blooming in any weather so that shades of apricot and lemon are always there, even on cloudy days.’

If you know how to overwinter begonias, they will flower again next year.

5. Sweet alyssum

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Used on its own, sweet alyssum creates a frothy, romantic cloud in a hanging basket, but it can also be used to soften the edges of other plants in a mixed display.

‘Sweet alyssum has lovely small white or purple tiny blooms and is extremely fragrant,’ says Whittlesey.

Though the plants are generally tough and easy to grow, they are not frost hardy, so are usually grown as an annual.

Best plants for hanging baskets in shade

Often seen as a negative, shade actually presents a wonderful opportunity to plant more unusual varieties that would not thrive in full sun.

Many shade-loving plants are also evergreen, and provide interest and texture through their foliage year round.

1. Ferns

(Image credit: Future)

‘Most fern species feel right at home in a hanging basket,’ says Victoria Kuchinskaya, resident plant physiologist for leading plant identification app NatureID . 

‘These plants are a great option for shaded and indirectly lit locations, as they don’t need much sunlight to thrive.’

Ferns make for lovely outdoor hanging baskets, but can also make lush houseplants too. ‘Make sure to mist them generously or place them in a kitchen or bathroom to keep their foliage healthy.’

Benoit particularly favors Boston ferns. ‘They provide punches of green beneath your eaves or along edges of your patio,’ he says.

’To keep your Boston ferns happy and green, hang them out of direct sunlight and keep soil moist with regular waterings.’

2. Heuchera

(Image credit: Getty Images)

As an evergreen perennial foliage plant, heuchera adds vibrancy and texture to hanging baskets year round, and makes a wonderful foil for flowers.

Native to woodlands, heuchera thrives in light shade, and its foliage comes in a huge range of colors, from silver to deepest bronze. The plants also produce small flowers in the summer.

Remove spent leaves in the fall to keep them looking their best, and water and feed regularly during the summer.

3. Bacopa

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Bacopa is a dainty flower that thrives in part shade – and dislikes strong afternoon sun.

The plants have a gentle trailing effect, and from summer to fall will be covered with blooms.

They are generally low-maintenance – deadheading isn't necessary but will help improve flowering.

Keep the soil moist, but don't overwater.

4. Kokedama orchid

(Image credit: Getty Images)

If you’re after more unusual plants for hanging baskets, then consider the traditional Japanese art of kokedama, which is making a resurgence. 

‘Kokedama is the practice of taking the roots of the plant and suspending them in a ball of sphagnum moss, which is then wrapped with a soft moss such as sheet moss,’ says Paige Harmon of Westerlay Orchids .

‘It is a living planter that has a very natural feel to it. It makes a distinctive display piece which can be hung either indoors or outdoors, depending on the plant. 

‘Orchids make the most beautiful kokedama but there are many plants that can be used and look amazing as well.’

Best low maintenance outdoor hanging plants

'When you’re choosing what to put in hanging baskets, consider how much effort you are willing to put into maintaining the plant you choose – some are more finicky than others,' says Wildcraft.

Happily, there are several standout choices for hanging baskets that will thrive even if you only have minimal time to spend on them.

1. Pansies

(Image credit: Future)

'Pansies are tried and true hanging basket favorites that come in both solid colors or multi color blooms, ranging from yellow, white, burgundy, blues and purple,' says Whittlesey.

These cheerful blooms provide color in some of the bleakest months of the year, when there is often little joy to be found elsewhere in the garden. This makes them one of the best plants for winter pots and borders.

It's a good idea to occasionally deadhead pansies to maximize their flowering period, but they will grow well with very little intervention.

2. Golden pothos

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Also known as devil’s ivy, golden pothos is a low-maintenance foliage plant suitable for either indoor or outdoor hanging baskets. 

‘It has low light requirements, and is most known for thriving in conditions other plants wouldn’t survive, making it an especially perfect plant for beginners,’ says Spears.

‘Another remarkable characteristic of this plant is that it defines fast growing as it can grow an astonishing 12 inches a month!’

Founder of Loop Living, Eli Manekin is also a big fan of golden pothos for hanging baskets. ‘I love devil's ivy. It has beautiful white swirls on its bright green leaves, and the more light it's exposed to, the more these white streaks will be noticeable,' he says.

‘It’s really hard to kill – even for those people who are self-proclaimed 'black thumbs.' Don't be tempted to overwater it, instead take your cue from the plant itself. Wait until the leaves are soft and droopy – that's when it needs to be watered.

'If you accidentally kill it, don't worry! Just cut off the stems and keep going. More often than not it will start growing again.’

3. String of pearls

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Though often used as a trailing house plant, string of pearls makes for a striking hanging basket plant outdoors too. 

‘For very bright direct light, a string of pearls works wonderfully. These jewel-like plants thrive outside, or for indoors look for a spot in your home where the light casts harsh shadows, as this is the brightest light,’ says Manekin.

A string of pearls does not need a lot of water, so make sure to water them only when they are fully dry. 

‘In late spring, the plant will fill the air with the cinnamon-like smell of its delicate white flowers,’ adds Kuchinskaya.

‘Be careful if you have pets or children, however, as this plant’s sap is known to be poisonous.’

What flowers last the longest in a hanging basket?

There are many fabulous flowers that last all summer in a hanging basket, with some enduring into the fall.

Some of the best to consider include calibrachoa, erigeron karvinskianus, fuchsias, geraniums and osteospermums.

When should you start hanging baskets?

When planting summer hanging baskets, start them off early in the spring, to give the plants enough time to establish. 

However, you will need to keep them in a greenhouse or conservatory until the frosts have passed.

If you don't have anywhere suitable to keep them undercover, then plant your hanging baskets in mid to late spring, after the frosts have passed.

Winter hanging baskets can be planted early in the fall.

As editor of Period Living, Britain's best-selling period homes magazine, Melanie loves the charm of older properties. I live in a rural village just outside the Cotswolds in England, so am lucky to be surrounded by beautiful homes and countryside, where I enjoy exploring. Having worked in the industry for almost two decades, Melanie is interested in all aspects of homes and gardens. Her previous roles include working on Real Homes and Homebuilding & Renovating, and she has also contributed to Gardening Etc. She has an English degree and has also studied interior design. Melanie frequently writes for Homes & Gardens about property restoration and gardening.

What plants to plant in hanging baskets? » Inventions and crafts

Time to think about the best plants for hanging baskets. They not only add beauty, but also color and texture as the plants go down. If the thought of hanging basket plants scares you, you're not alone.

The good news is that there are many colors for hanging baskets to choose from.

Contents

Choosing the Best Plants for Hanging Baskets

Before you start choosing plants for hanging baskets, you need to figure out where you plan to hang your basket. Location plays a vital role in plant selection as different plants have different lighting requirements. Keep in mind that the position of the sun changes with the season, so something shaded and cool in the winter will be sunny and hot in the summer. Consider your growing area when choosing plants for your hanging basket. You can find lists of the best hanging basket plants all over the internet, but just because they aren't listed doesn't mean they won't grow in your area. Find your growing region on the plant hardiness zone map. Along with the growing area, think about the care requirements of each plant. Group plants with similar care requirements as this makes plant care easier. When choosing plants for hanging baskets, you should also think about the variety of plants. Just because one type of plant won't work well in a hanging basket doesn't mean you should skip the plant altogether. See what another plant variety of this species has to offer. An excellent example is the plants that usually grow in mounds; many of them provide a hanging variety that is perfect for hanging baskets. nine0003

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How to Plant Hanging Plants

Before you can start planting hanging baskets, you need to find a hanging basket. The best hanging baskets are 14 to 16 inches wide, as this gives you plenty of room for a variety of plants. If you go to the garden center of local home improvement stores or a few large retail stores, you will find a large selection of hanging baskets to choose from. nine0003

Some are simple plastic hanging baskets, while others offer intricate designs. Choose any style of hanging basket you like, but if it doesn't come with a liner, buy one separately or create your own lining with a coconut coir bag. The coconut coir liners that come with the hanging baskets are the best choice for the interior lining of the baskets. When buying soil for hanging baskets, don't buy the cheapest dirt you can find. Choose good quality planting soil. The best planting soil for hanging baskets is soil containing a mixture of perlite and peat. nine0003

Hanging basket flower care

Caring for your hanging baskets includes fertilizing, watering and dampening your flowers inside your hanging baskets. How often you feed your plants depends on the plant as they each have their own unique fertilizer requirements. In general, add a slow release fertilizer to the soil before planting and then apply fertilizer according to the needs of the plants. Hanging baskets require more water than regular container plants. Remember to keep the soil from drying out, so check the dirt and water daily. A good rule of thumb for hanging baskets is to water every day in the sun, or every other day if you're in the shade. Outside temperature also affects the frequency of watering. During extreme heat, hanging baskets require more water, even if they are in the shade. nine0003

17 Mandatory Hanging Baskets

Tuberous Begonia (Begonia tuberhybrida) - Flowers for Hanging Baskets

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Tuberous begonias offer colorful flowers and are the perfect choice if you are looking for something showy in your hanging baskets. With tuberous begonias you have the choice between upright or hanging plants with tousled, double or single flowers in different colors with green or burgundy leaves. In container gardens, tuberous begonias can reach three feet in height. Plant tuberous begonias when the temperature is consistently above 10 degrees Celsius, as anything lower can damage the plant. These flowers require partial shade or filtered sunlight, and they thrive when they receive afternoon shade and morning sun. nine0003

They die off every year, so reduce the amount of water in late summer until early autumn. When the foliage starts to turn yellow, cut it back and dig up the tubers before the first frost sets in. Clean and dry the tubers within a week and store the tubers in newspaper or paper bags for the next year.

Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum Majus)

One of the best insect repellents for hanging baskets are nasturtiums. Besides keeping flies, these plants thrive in poor soil with plenty of sunlight and very little maintenance. These are annual plants, so you will need to repot them every year. During flowering (six to eight weeks after planting) they produce many flowers and require minimal watering. nine0003

Trailer nasturtiums are ideal for hanging baskets, but other options such as dwarf nasturtiums and climbing nasturtiums are excellent choices for window boxes. When adding potting soil to your nasturtium hanging basket, avoid using any rich potting mixes or soil with added fertilizer as this will limit flowering. When watering, water only when the top three inches of soil are dry and there is enough water until the water drains from the drain hole. Let the soil dry out again before watering. nine0003

Best hanging basket plants - Fuchsia (Fuchsia magellanica)

Fuchsias are shade loving plants that add a splash of color to your hanging baskets. Fuchsias are often grown as annuals in hanging baskets, so they require fertile soil that provides excellent moisture retention. Never put fuchsias in full sun and make sure you water them constantly. If not watered regularly, they will begin to wilt. Hot spells may require more frequent watering. For best planting results, use either nursery starts or cuttings, or you can also create your own cuttings using two to three inch long pieces from the end of the branch. As for hanging plants, fuchsias can be placed four inches apart in baskets or containers. Bring these cold-sensitive plants indoors for the winter, but only after you cut all the leaves back so they are no longer than six inches. Store the basket in a dark place and water it three times and take it outside four weeks before the last frost. nine0003

Petunias

For a hanging flower, Grandiflora is the best choice as it offers more abundant flowers than the other group of petunias. This group is better suited for containers and baskets because the flowers can be damaged by rain. When planting petunias, it is best to transplant. These flowers require full sun and well-draining soil. If you plant in areas that receive even partial shade, you will notice fewer blooms. In baskets and containers, use potting mix that does not contain soil. Although petunias are heat tolerant when planted in baskets or containers, they require frequent watering. To ensure optimal growth, fertilize the flowers once a month. To encourage longer flowering periods, remove any wilted or dead flowers as they appear. Due to their many colors, choosing petunias is an excellent choice for plants that filter the air. nine0003

Bacopa (Bacopa monniera) - hanging basket plant

Many people use Bacopa as hanging basket filler because it grows beautifully and is easy to grow. Bacopa offers exquisite blue or white flowers set against green foliage. Don't let your gentle appearance fool you; it is one of the toughest plants you can add to your hanging baskets. Not a tall plant, the foliage tends to creep along the sides of the planters or along the edges of the beds and does well in zones with 9to 11. An easy-to-grow perennial, you will notice flowering from spring until the first frost. This flowering plant requires full sun to part shade and does best in soil that stays moist.

Bacopa is an herb commonly used to treat anxiety and memory disorders. As an herb, the plant does well when planted in baskets with other herbs.

Geranium (Pelargonium)

An excellent addition to any hanging basket is the ease of cultivation, pleasant smell and colorful geranium. By planting them in a hanging basket, you can easily bring the plant out in the winter in climates that don't get enough sunlight to continue to thrive. Your healthy plants will not discolour on the leaves and will have strong stems. nine0003

These plants require baskets or containers with drainage holes to prevent root rot from forming. Baskets should be placed where they receive up to six hours of sunlight per day. Geraniums require regular watering but allow the soil to dry out between each watering. Reduce the amount of water during the winter months, but never let the roots dry out completely. Remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms. In the spring, you can repot as needed. When bringing the plant in for the winter, cut the stems into a good shape where they are no longer than eight inches, and water only when the leaves begin to fall in winter. nine0003

Best Hanging Basket Plant - Lotus Vine (lotus berthelotti)

Lotus vine can shrink naturally but are so easy to grow from seeds or cuttings that they are a popular choice in hanging baskets. The Lotus Vine features greenish-gray needle-style leaves that are deceptive. The leaves are not gourd like one might assume; instead, they are soft to the touch. What catches the eye are the flowers, which resemble flames in color and shape. When caring for these plants, it is helpful to know that aphids, meal bugs, and spider mites are known pests to watch out for. Other than that, normal plant care includes soil, location, and watering. Plant these beauties in potting or garden soil that provides good drainage. When using potting soil, add a small amount of sand to improve drainage. Keep the soil moist and avoid over or under watering. Place the plant in full sun for best results. nine0003

Ivy

Ivy is an evergreen perennial that is great for hanging baskets as it requires minimal maintenance. This is one of the best plants to grow and (almost) forget about.

The best part of growing outdoors is that it doesn't need direct sunlight and thrives in full or partial shade. Ivy is perfect for hanging baskets as it provides the perfect green backdrop for each flower color. It is important to note that you will need to trim and shape your ivy vines regularly, as woody vines can stretch up to 7 meters or more if left unattended. Ivy needs protection from hot weather and winter winds, so consider where you plan to hang your basket or move it around as needed. Always test the soil before watering your ivy, as ivy prefers partially dry soil over moist soil. Use well-drained soil when planting ivy in containers and plant periodically depending on the size of the plant. nine0003

Vervain - Best hanging basket plant

Vervain, also known as Tears of Isis, works great in hanging baskets as it is a spill type plant. For Verbena to thrive, give it at least six hours of sun a day and plant it in well-draining soil. The plant does well in a variety of soil conditions as long as it is well drained. The only downside to Verbana is that if you neglect her, there is usually no hope of saving her. The plant requires regular care and attention to prevent it from dying off; hanging baskets and containers require more attention than plants in the ground. The most tricky party in caring for Verbena is watering it. nine0003

Excess water or soil that does not drain well increases the likelihood that the plant will fall prey to stem rot. Not enough water, and the plant quickly dries up and dies.

During the hot months, check the basket daily to see if the plant needs water. Look for wilted foliage as a sign that it's time to water along with dry soil. Trim excess foliage once a month to keep the plant looking its best.

New Guinea Impatiens (Impatiens hawkeri)

New Guinea Impatiens is an excellent plant for hanging baskets as it has a long flowering time and grows well in full sun. These plants have very few pest problems, but it's still a good idea to keep a household wasp killer on hand. The colorful flowers have five thick petals and sit above glossy variegated, burgundy or dark green leaves. New Guinea Impatiens, a renowned nectar grower, attracts butterflies and requires little maintenance. They will bloom all season without any dullness; all they need is the right amount of sun and water. These plants require full sun for at least half of the day and in hot temperatures, the other half of the day is best spent in the shade. Water these plants regularly; they are not drought tolerant but should not be kept in damp soil as this encourages crown rot. Avoid watering from above as much as possible. nine0003

Flowering Hanging Basket Plant - Lobelia (Lobelia erinus)

When choosing Lobelia, it is best to consider the plant as a seasonal plant. Lobelia does best in moderate temperatures, so you'll notice it flourishes in early spring. In these colder temperatures, you'll see hanging baskets covered in tiny blue flowers with white throats just flowing down the sides. By the time summer temperatures hit in early June, the plant will have flowered. Instead of wasting time saving, consider adding something else to your cart to take its place. Lobelia can grow almost anywhere, and once established, it requires minimal care. The main problem with hanging baskets is making sure the plant gets enough water, so water frequently. Keep the soil moist, not soggy, and never let the roots in the soil dry out. To keep the plant looking its best, the dead spent the flowers as needed. nine0003

Susan Vine (Thunbergia alata)

Black Eye Susan's easy care ensures vibrant color in hanging baskets. Flowers have a solid central part surrounded by almost transparent petals. From a distance, the flowers look very similar to daisies, but as you get closer, you will notice their tubular shape. The center of each flower is purplish brown, mimicking the central disk you see with the perennial black-eyed Susan. The flowers are seated among coarse green leaves in the shape of a heart or spear. If there is no support in the basket, the vines will flow over the edges of the container. Since these vines will take over the basket, plant it alone or with another vine that it can intertwine with. Place your basket of Black Eye Susan Vine in full sun for the healthiest plant with the most flowers. If you have a hotter climate, it may be helpful to place the basket in midday shade. nine0003

These vines need organically rich, neutral pH soil and do not like soil that is too wet or too dry. To keep the soil evenly moist and prevent root rot, mulch around the base of the plant.

Vine Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas) - Hanging Basket

If you want to add some interesting foliage to your hanging basket, consider Sweet Potato Vine with its hanging stems up to ten feet long. The plant offers foliage in a variety of colors including black, brown, red, bronze, gold, greenish yellow, green and purple. What makes the foliage of this vine plant so attractive is the heart-shaped leaves. nine0003

Older varieties sometimes sprout lavender or pink tubular flowers, but the attraction lies not in the flowers, but in the leaves themselves. Sweet potato vines require a sunny spot and well-draining soil. These plants thrive in desert climates as their natural habitat offers hot and humid conditions. You will need to lightly trim and shape the vines as they can quickly outgrow their space. Use a quality potting mix in hanging baskets or containers and use a water soluble fertilizer once a month. The sweet potato vine requires weekly watering, but may need more water during hot spells. nine0003

Lantana (Lantana Camara)

If you want to add broadleaf evergreens to hanging baskets, Lantanas is a great choice. Although these plants are classified as shrubs, they are very similar to vines. This behavior makes them a great option for hanging baskets as it gives their branches plenty of room to spill. The most striking thing about Lantans is the round clusters of small, bright flowers. Most people don't like the way the flowers smell, but the citrus leaves make up for it. Drought tolerant plants tolerate salt spray well, making them a popular choice in coastal areas. In the northern United States, this common perennial is considered an annual and offers fluorescent petal colors with different colored petals on the same flower. You can bring baskets inside for the winter, but these plants don't work well as houseplants. Although they will grow in a variety of soils, they prefer slightly acidic soil that provides excellent drainage. nine0003

Flower Hanging Basket - Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritime)

If you are looking for a drought and heat tolerant plant for your hanging basket, choose Sweet Alyssum. As a naturalized plant in the United States, Sweet Alyssum thrives in a variety of growing regions. The plant belongs to the mustard family but is named for its sweet and pleasant aroma. While the plant is self-healing, it is not frost hardy, so plan accordingly if you want to enjoy your next years. These little plants grow to about six inches tall and provide hanging baskets with clusters of tiny flowers that bloom white, purple, yellow, salmon and pink, depending on the variety. Flowering begins in June and will last until October if you remember to cut off dead flowers. Sweet Alyssum requires moderate moisture and well-draining soil and should not be transplanted outside unless there is a risk of frost. These low maintenance plants need full sunlight and are prone to rot and leaf rot if the solar requirements are not met. nine0003

Million Bells (Calibrachoa)

Millions Bells is one of the best flowering plants for hanging baskets as it blooms continuously from spring until the first frost. The plant grows on the sides of hanging baskets, but it offers a dense trail of foliage rather than a thin one. The one inch flowers at the Million Bells plant offer a variety of primary throated petal colors that contrast beautifully with this color. The flowers, which attract bees and hummingbirds, sit among compact, bright green foliage. Plant your Million Bells in a place that receives full sun. Shaded areas with little sunlight or daylight shade areas should be avoided as this will limit the amount of flowers your plant produces. nine0003

In hanging baskets, use an airtight soil-free mix supplemented with compost for optimum drainage. Never let the soil dry out; it requires even moisture.

Moss Rose (Portulaca grandiflora) - the best plants for hanging baskets

The vibrant colors and habit make it an excellent choice for hanging baskets. Moss Rose grows up to eight inches tall with a 24-inch spread. The plant has a low water requirement. As a minimum, this plant requires six hours of direct sunlight; the shaded areas will make it close its flowers. nine0003

Colorful flowers will close every night. Unlike other hanging plants, Moss Rose is self-paced and doesn't outgrow its space, so it's also an excellent ground cover. Although it requires well-drained soil. Although the plant is considered sympathetic and drought tolerant, it is not too cacti related and needs regular watering, but will tolerate occasional dry spells. Drip irrigation is best for delicate flowers.

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Hanging gardens: 10 unpretentious hanging plants

1. Asplenium nest or Kostenets

Kostenets has unusual green petals with a wavy edge. It can grow anywhere, but it's best to keep it out of direct sunlight and water it once a week.

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feey/Unsplash

2. Tillandsia

If you love exotic plants, Tillandsia will definitely appeal to you. They can be easily hung up, they are unpretentious in care, because they do not require soil and a lot of water. nine0003

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getty

3. Common ivy

Ivy is perhaps the most famous hanging plant that can easily refresh any interior. To keep it evergreen and grow more, don't forget to spray it with water every week, and keep a close eye on moisture levels in winter.

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Véronique Trudel/Unsplash

This type of hanging plant thrives in humid environments, so the bathroom is the perfect place for it. nine0003

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Unknown Wong/Unsplash

5. Epipremnum aureus

This climbing plant is ideal for hanging in a pot or basket. Find him a medium to low lit corner with indirect light, water once every 1-2 weeks, and he will delight the eye with his beautiful vines for a long time.

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Taylor Heery/Unsplash

6. Eucalyptus

Make your home cozy with the fresh smell of eucalyptus. You can hang the stems from thin wooden branches in the bedroom or bathroom, as in the photo below. nine0003

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homestolove

7. Tillandsia xerographic

This amazing ornamental plant is beautiful in itself. It grows without support, so it is enough to hang it on a twine or ribbon and soak it in water once a week.

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feey/Unsplash

8. philodendron

Everyone seems to know the philodendron. Its heart-shaped leaves and docile nature make it an ideal houseplant.

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