Add vibrancy and color to your porch or patio with full sun flowers in hanging baskets. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your own hanging basket or you are a handing basket pro, this guide provides valuable insights to help your plants thrive.
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Choosing Plants for Your Hanging Basket
In today’s post we are planting two hanging baskets for a couple of sunny spots in our yard. When selecting plants for your hanging baskets be sure to select plants with similar sun, water and soil needs.
The plants we used in this post are:
Materials List
Gather the following materials in addition to the plants.
Planting Your Hanging Basket: Steps for Success
- Preparing the Basket: Fill your hanging basket with potting soil, stopping a few inches from the top.
- Transplanting Your Plants: Gently remove the plants from their container, utilizing gravity by turning the pot upside down. Or if they came in six pack cells, cut the plastic with scissors to remove the plants.
- Positioning the Plants: Arrange your plants in the basket. If the roots are compacted, gently move them apart to promote growth. Don’t be afraid to break up the root ball. Plants are tougher than you think and this will stimulate new growth.
- Securing the Plants: Add more soil to the hanging basket. So the plant is buried at the same level it was in its original pot.
- Initial Watering: Water your newly potted zinnias and add slow-release fertilizer if it’s not present in your potting mix. We have had good success with using Espoma Organic Bio-Tone Starter Plus All Natural Plant Food when starting new plants.
Expert Tips for Thriving Hanging Baskets
- Space Them Out: Avoid overcrowding. A 12-inch basket typically accommodates three zinnia plants.
- Prioritize Drainage: Ensure your basket has adequate drainage holes to prevent root rot.
- Optimal Planting Time: While zinnias grow fast, it’s best to plant them as early as safe to do so. Beware of late frosts. Check your local growing zone to find the best time.
- Fertilize Regularly: Even with slow-release fertilizer in the soil, supplement with water-soluble fertilizer throughout the summer.
- Sunlight Matters: Ensure all plants in the basket get their required sunlight to prevent stunted growth or reduced blooms.
- Prune for Health: Trim zinnias to boost growth and facilitate more blooms.
- Watering Strategy: In peak summer, watering might be needed daily. However, be cautious not to overwater. Check the soil’s top inch for moisture or feel the basket’s weight to gauge watering needs.
- Double Down on Fertilizer: In addition to slow-release fertilizer pebbles, provide extra nutrients using water-soluble fertilizers.
Conclusion
Zinnias are a delightful addition to any hanging basket, offering a splash of color and joy. With the right care and attention, they can be a radiant fixture for your home throughout the summer season.