We'll be 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. The first step is to take some sphagnum moss and soak it for about 10 minutes.
2. Begin lining the basket with the dampened moss, starting on the bottom and working 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 light and also will stay moist. Combine some high-quality potting mix with perlite (three parts soil to one part perlite). Add the soil to the basket until it's right below the moss level. Then use more moss to line the basket until you reach the top. Try not to leave any gaps.
4. We're ready to plant, and that means you need to create an opening on the side of the basket. Lloosen the roots and push each plant into the moist soil, using clumps of moss to secure it. Keep doing this, spacing the plants 3"-4" apart. The more you add, the faster the basket will be brimming with green.
5. On the top, you can add some color by planting 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, and keeping your basket looking great will require regular watering and some trimming as well. I like to use a watering wand because it delivers a gentle soaking for baskets. In warmer weather, your baskets might need to be watered twice a day. A simple finger test in the moss will help you know if 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. And from time to time add some extra moss to fill any gaps.
