Hanging Baskets Plants for Outdoors

Regardless of the plants chosen, they will need considerable care, particularly water. They will need checking frequently as the plants grow and temperatures become hotter.

Hanging baskets have gained in popularity during recent years. They are used to beautify our patios, terraces, garages, breezeways, as well as other areas. Choosing the plants wisely will give you several months of colorful blooms or foliage.

Among those for sunny locations are Dwarf Salvia, Petite and Dwarf Marigolds, Purple Passion Plant, Clock Vine, Wandering Jew, Annual Vinca or Periwinkle, Nepeta, Verbena and Lantana. Should your location have a good bit of shade, look at ferns, fuschia, caladiums and spider plants, Dwarf Salvia, Begonia, and Impatiens.

Plants require care…

Regardless of the plants chosen, they will need considerable care, particularly water. They will need checking frequently as the plants grow and temperatures become hotter. Baskets are available today in plastic and ceramics - in addition to the standbys of wire and wood. Moss lined baskets are attractive but will require additional attention to water since they dry quickly.

Holes allow water to drain…

Use a soil mixture of equal parts of clay loam, peat moss, and sand. In case you use a plastic liner, punch a few holes in the bottom so that excess water will drain. Select 3 healthy young seedlings of petunia, salvia, or vinca for a 10" basket. If you like lantana, because of their density, you might reduce the number to 2 plants.

Fertilization may consist of using a liquid fertilizer applied as a normal watering. This gives good results.

Let your imagination be your guide in selecting plants. Many perennial or shrubby type plants can be most attractive.

For more information on hanging basket plants for outdoors, contact your local county Extension office.