How to Make Hanging Flower Arrangements

Baskets are hung from support beams or soffit.

Flowers are a classic decorating tool for the outside of a home or business. Flowers are chosen for fragrance and color or to match the current decor. Accenting the exterior of the home with flower arrangements provides a welcoming atmosphere for family and friends. The flower combination shows the creativity of the homeowners and reflects their personal styles.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Hanging pot with drainage holes
• Water absorbing material
• Potting soil
• Water absorbing gel or crystals
• Gardening gloves
• Flowers of choice

1. Line the inside of the pot with the water absorbing material, such as moss. Purchase a lightweight growing mixture or create a mixture using sterile potting mix, peat moss and perlite.

2. Fill pot with potting soil or growing mixture up to 2 inches from the rim of the pot. If using soil, stir in water absorbing gel or crystals to the growing mixture to retain moisture between watering.

3. Plant the flowers starting in the middle and working out towards the edges. Choose the same flower or multiples that reflect your personal style. Impatiens and asparagus ferns work well in partial shade. Narrow-leaf zinnia and geraniums grow well in full sun.

4. Water full sun plants several times a week, and on hotter summer days, every day. If your potting mix does not come with fertilizer, add a water-soluble fertilizer to your watering can. Read the directions for the fertilizer you choose, since the amount and frequency of use differ.

References

• Better Homes and Gardens; How to Make a Perfect Hanging Basket; Amy McDowell
• Alabama Cooperative Extension System; Container Gardening; Mary Beth Musgrove; September 2009