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 tips for thriving hanging baskets this season:
Water
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 gone for a few days, it is best to have someone take care of your basket in the meantime—if there is no one available to care for it, take it down from its hook, water it, and place it in the shade while you’re away.
Fertilize
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.
Protect
Protect against pests such as bud worms and caterpillars with Captain Jack’s Deadbug Brew. Spray this when you see a small white moth or butterfly on or near your flowers. Keep an eye out for other pests like aphids—if present, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Containers
- 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!
Sun
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.
- Partial sun combinations 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.
Deadhead
Most hanging baskets require deadheading to continue blooming and look their best—remove spent blooms weekly. Some varieties, like Calibrachoa and Million Bells, do not need deadheading, as they are “self-cleaning!”