Driving around your neighborhood you will find that there are some people who like to have plants displayed in hanging baskets. You might see anything growing in them from geraniums to asparagus fern. It may seem like something fun to do, but armed with the right knowledge you will have just as pretty of a show of potted plants.
One of the first things to consider when growing plants in hanging baskets is the plant itself. Some plants such as hyacinths, day lilies, and tulips are early spring growing plants. These particular plants require full sun in order to grow well. To have plants blooming most of the spring, summer and fall you will need to find something else to plant in your hanging baskets.
The most important things to consider on choosing a plant are its blooming time, how much sun it needs, how tall and wide will it grow, how often it needs to be watered and needs added nutrients, the best soil conditions, and water drainage. Should the front of your house receive half a day of sun you may consider planting something like begonias. They require watering maybe twice a week depending on your climate. They also like moist soil, which means a sandy mix may be too much for them.
Choosing the right hanging basket can be tricky, too. A tall growing plant will need ample room to grow. Therefore, a hanging basket with a longer gap between the pot and hook will be more beneficial to the plant. Also, make sure the pot is wide enough for the plant unless you plant to graduate the plant into a larger pot later on. Take note on how the water will drain out of the pot. A direct downpour out of the bottom will mean stained concrete later on or a hole in the ground where the water has been.
You may have a plant such as cactus, which needs watering from the drainage well. This forces the roots down to get the water instead of taking the risk of rotting the plant by watering from the top. This is also a good watering method for bromeliads and exotic plants such as African violets or orchids. Find a pot that has the drain pan wider than the pot for these particular plants. You may have to piece together just the right type of hanging basket.
Some plants need highly acidic soil while others do not. Find out what is the best ph balance of soil for the plant you have chosen. This will help you out for the three months before you need to start adding plant food. Feeding a plant may only be required once a month to as often as every 10 to 20 days. Again, this all depends on the plant you have chosen for your hanging basket.
There is much to consider before hanging out a plant to decorating your home. You may conveniently grab one from a garden nursery without thinking of where to hang it. Read up on the care of the plant and you will have a green thumb before you know it.
