by S. F. Heron

Created on: July 15, 2009

Hanging flower baskets add a special touch to a front porch or patio like nothing else can. Trailing vines and flowers overflowing the edges of the basket bring the garden right to the forefront. Purchasing hanging flower baskets from the garden center can be quite expensive. Not only are you paying for the cost of the flowers but also the cost of the container as well. It's so easy and enjoyable to make your own hanging baskets that once you do it, you'll never buy a prepared hanging basket again.

Containers

The choices for hanging containers abound for gardeners so decide which suits your outdoor dcor. Make sure the container drains properly to prevent waterlogged roots and dead plants. Punch a few holes in the base of the planter with a screwdriver and hammer to assure drainage. Don't make the holes too large since soil will drain out of the planter base.

Choose sturdy containers made of plastic, preferably those with an attached plastic base that allows drainage. Metal planters lined with coconut fiber provide the perfect hanging basket for creating a beautiful flower display. The coconut fiber keeps the dirt in and allows excess water to drain right out the bottom of the planter. Any container is acceptable as long as the plants have adequate drainage. If you simply can't put a hole in the hanging planter, add a 2-inch layer of rocks to the bottom of the planter to aid drainage.

Sun or Shade Tolerance

There are literally so many choices for creating stunning floral displays. The key lies in choosing plants that complement each other and adequately use the space within the planter to maximum benefit. Evaluate the planter location for sun exposure before purchasing any plants. Purchase either sun-tolerant or shade tolerant plants based on the final location of the basket.

Height

Varying the height of plants creates visual interest in the planter. Including a simple green spike creates a splash of vibrant green right in the middle of a basket filled with flowering annuals. You have plenty of space above the rim of the planter and at the edges. Use this space. Plants that spread and trail such as petunias, vinca vine and geraniums will nicely fill a planter to overflowing, hiding the planter rim for a more refined look. Consider adding penta, a delicate flowering annual with flowers similar to a verbena to add height to the basket. There's no limit to what you can put into a hanging flower basket.

Texture and Balance

Including plants with textured leaves also works

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