If you’re looking to improve your front yard aesthetic, adding hanging baskets is a great way to do so. There are many different types of flowers that can be planted in hanging baskets, but which ones are the best? In this article, we will describe the best flowers for hanging baskets and the difference between annual and perennial flowers. Lastly, we will give tips on how to style your baskets for the best effect. So, read on to learn more about the best flowers for hanging baskets!
Table of Contents
What are Hanging Baskets?
Hanging baskets are pots that are suspended from hooks or brackets. They are a type of container gardening and can be used to grow a variety of plants, including flowers, herbs, and vegetables.
There are many reasons why you might want to use hanging baskets in your garden. For one, they can save space since they are not placed on the ground. They also add height and interest to your garden, and can even be used to create privacy screens or windbreaks.
Hanging baskets are also a great way to show off your flowers! Plants in hanging baskets often have more room to grow and can therefore produce more blooms. This makes them a great choice for gardeners who want to add color and beauty to their yards.
Types of Flowers for Hanging Baskets
There are two main types of flowers that can be planted in hanging baskets: annuals and perennials. Annual flowers are plants that only live for one growing season. This means that they will need to be replanted each year. Perennial flowers, on the other hand, live for more than one growing season and will come back each year without needing to be replanted.
Annual Flowers
There are many annual flowers that make great choices for hanging baskets. These include impatiens, petunias, and begonias. Annual flowers are a great option for gardeners who want to change up the look of their hanging baskets each year. They also tend to be less expensive than perennials, making them a budget-friendly choice.
Perennial Flowers
Perennials are another great choice for hanging baskets. These plants will come back year after year, so you only need to plant them once. Some of the best perennial flowers for hanging baskets include lobelia, fuchsia, and ivy. Perennials are a great choice for gardeners who want low-maintenance plants that will provide color and interest for many years to come.
The Best Flowers to Grow in your Hanging Basket
Now that you know the difference between annual and perennial flowers, you can start to narrow down your choices. When selecting flowers for your hanging basket, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the size of the plant. You’ll want to make sure that the flower you choose will not outgrow its pot. Second, think about the amount of sun or shade your hanging basket will receive. This will help you choose a plant that is well-suited to the conditions in your yard. Finally, consider the color of the flowers you want to grow. Selecting a color scheme can help create a cohesive look in your garden.
Petunias
One of the best flowers for hanging baskets is petunias. These annual flowers come in a wide variety of colors, making them a great choice for gardeners who want to add some color to their yards.
Begonias
Another great choice for hanging baskets is begonias. These plants come in both annual and perennial varieties, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs. Begonias are also available in a wide range of colors, making them a great way to add some pizzazz to your garden.
Lobelia
If you’re looking for a perennial flower for your hanging basket, lobelia is a great choice. This plant comes in a variety of colors, including blue, pink, and purple. These flowers last all season long, so you can enjoy their beauty all year round.
Fuchsia
Fuchsia is another great perennial flower for hanging baskets. This plant comes in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, and red. The size of the plant makes it a great choice for small hanging baskets.
Ivy
If you’re looking for a plant that will provide some privacy or create a windbreak in your garden, ivy is a great choice. This evergreen plant can be trained to grow up a trellis or fence, making it a great option for gardeners who want to add some height to their garden.
Ferns
Ferns are a great choice for hanging baskets because they add texture and interest. These plants come in a variety of colors, including green, brown, and white. Ferns get large, so be sure to choose a pot that is large enough to accommodate the plant.
How to Style Your Hanging Basket
Once you’ve selected the flowers you want to grow in your hanging basket, it’s time to start planting.
Step One: Choosing a Planting Container
When selecting a container for your hanging basket, be sure to choose one that is large enough to accommodate the roots of your plants. It’s also important to select a container with drainage holes to ensure that your plants don’t become waterlogged.
Step Two: Fill Your Container With Soil
Once you’ve selected a container, it’s time to fill it with soil. Be sure to use a potting mix that is designed for hanging baskets. This type of mix is lightweight and well-draining, making it ideal for plants that are growing in containers.
Step Three: Plant Your Flowers
After you’ve filled your container with soil, it’s time to start planting your flowers. Be sure to give each plant enough room to grow. Once you’ve planted your flowers, water them well and place them in a location that receives the appropriate amount of sun or shade.
Step Four: Add Some Finishing Touches
Once you’ve planted your flowers, it’s time to add some finishing touches to your hanging basket. You can add mulch to help retain moisture and keep the roots of your plants cool. You can also add a bit of fertilizer to help your plants grow.
FAQs
Q: What’s the best flower for a hanging basket?
A: There is no definitive answer, as the best flower for a hanging basket depends on the gardener’s individual preferences. Some popular choices include petunias, begonias, lobelia, fuchsia, ivy, and ferns.
Q: How often should I water my hanging basket?
A: Hanging baskets should be watered on a regular basis, as they tend to dry out quickly. Be sure to check the soil of your hanging basket regularly and water it when the top layer of soil is dry.
Q: What type of potting mix should I use for my hanging basket?
A: When planting a hanging basket, be sure to use a potting mix that is designed for containers. This type of mix is lightweight and well-draining, making it ideal for plants that are growing in containers.
Q: Can I plant annuals and perennials in the same hanging basket?
A: Yes, you can plant annuals and perennials in the same hanging basket. Be sure to give each plant enough room to grow and select a pot that is large enough to accommodate the roots of all your plants.
Summary
Hanging baskets are a great way to add color and interest to your garden. When selecting plants for your hanging basket, be sure to choose ones that are appropriate for the size of your pot and the amount of sun or shade that the location receives. Water your hanging basket on a regular basis and add some finishing touches, such as mulch or fertilizer, to help your plants grow. annuals and perennials can be planted in the same hanging basket, just be sure to give each plant enough room to grow. With a little bit of care, your hanging basket will be the envy of the neighborhood!
