Hanging baskets of flowers are just the right thing to add to your porch for instant pizzazz! If properly maintained, they can offer months of color and enjoyment. Here are a few of our best care tips for thriving hanging baskets this season!
Hanging Basket Container Selection
- Size matters—the larger the basket, the easier it is to care for and keep watered.
- The type of container also makes a difference. Plastic pots hold water best, while wire frames with moss or coco liners tend to dry out more quickly.
- Be sure to install strong hooks for heavy hanging baskets!
Hanging Basket Light Requirements
Pay attention to the amount of sun your basket will receive in its designated area—especially for baskets placed under eaves.
- Plant combinations for full sun need at least 6 hours.
- Plant combinations for partial sun require 4–6 hours.
- Shade combos need less than 4 hours of sun per day (Fuchsias are great for shade!).
Some areas in full sun also receive radiant heat from fences, decks, or siding—special consideration should be made for hot-dry conditions.
Hanging Basket Watering Needs
A consistent watering schedule is key to healthy hanging baskets. Water needs will increase as your plants grow and the weather warms up. By mid-Summer, most baskets will require daily watering, if not more. Check the weight of the basket to determine if it needs watering.
If you plan to be away from home for a few days, it is best to have someone take care of your hanging basket. If that is not an option, take it down from its hook, water it, and place it in the shade while you’re away.
Fertilizing Hanging Baskets
We recommend applying a slow-release fertilizer like G&B Organics Bud & Bloom or Osmocote Plant Food, plus a liquid bloom booster like Scott’s Super Bloom consistently through the growing season to keep baskets thriving; be sure to check the labels for details.
Pest Control Tips
Protect your hanging baskets against pests like bud worms and caterpillars with Captain Jack’s Deadbug Brew. Spray when you see a small white moth or butterfly on or near your flowers. Monitor for other pests like aphids—if present, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Deadheading Flowers
Most hanging baskets require deadheading to continue blooming and look their best—remove spent blooms weekly. Some varieties (Calibrachoa and Million Bells) do not need deadheading, as they are “self-cleaning”!
Come pick up a stunning hanging basket at one of our garden centers and enjoy their transformative power over any space!