We're working with a wire basket because they come in so many different shapes and sizes. I like them because the open frame allows you to plant through the sides. The result is a thick, lush look all around the entire basket. 1. Our first step is to soak some sphagnum moss for about 10 minutes.
2. Begin lining the basket with the dampened moss: Start on the bottom and work your way halfway up the sides. The moss shouldn't be more than an inch deep.
3. Next comes the soil -- and for the hanging basket, we are creating a soil mixture that is both light and moist. Start with high-quality potting mix and add perlite (three parts soil to one part perlite).
4. Add the soil to the basket until you get right below the moss level. Then use more moss to line the basket until you reach the top, trying not to leave any gaps.
5. We're ready to plant -- and that means you need to create an opening on the side of the basket. Loosen the roots and push each plant into the moist soil, using clumps of moss to secure it in place. Keep doing this, spacing the plant 3"-4" apart. The more you add, the faster the basket will be brimming with green.
6. On the top, you can add some color with flowering plants. Remember to place the tallest plants in the center.
It's important to remember that hanging baskets can be pretty high-maintenance, whether you keep them inside or outside your home.
- Most baskets dry out pretty quickly; keeping a basket looking great will require regular watering and some trimming as well. I like to use a watering wand because it delivers a nice, gentle soaking for baskets. In warmer weather, your baskets may need to be watered twice a day. A simple finger test in the moss will help you know whether your hanging basket is extra thirsty.
- As far as fertilizer is concerned, use a liquid product every month. Follow the directions to see how much water you'll need to add.
- Remember to do some regular grooming by getting rid of old flowers, stems and leaves. You can also help keep the basket looking great by cutting back flower stalks and nonblooming stems.
- From time to time, add some extra moss to fill any gaps.
So to create a hanging basket for your home, here are the DIY Basics:
- Select a wire basket.
- Line it with moss and soil mixture.
- Remember: your hanging baskets need a lot of water.
