How to Hang Planters

Plant-hanging brackets must be installed into a sturdy structure, such as a porch post.

Hanging plants on a porch or patio brings a touch of nature up-close to enjoy while you relax or entertain. Because the combined weight of the planter, plant, soil and water can be heavy, a secure installation is critical for the safety of the plant and your outdoor room's occupants. Suspension hardware should be screwed into a solid support, such as a post or overhead beam. Planters that are designed specifically for hanging include suspension lines and a hook. To hang a planter without suspension lines, you have to use a plant hanger. They are commercially available and typically made of cording or chain.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Step-stool (optional)
• Drill with drilling bit
• Heavy-duty screw hook
• Plant-hanging bracket
• Screws
• Screwdriver
• Plant hanger (optional)

Overhead Suspension

1. Mark the spot on an overhead beam or other solid wooden structure for suspending your plant. Affix a drilling bit to the drill for making the pilot hole for the screw hook. The bit must be smaller in diameter than the threaded shank of the hook. Drill a vertical thole through the overhead structure.

2. Insert the threaded end of the hook into the pilot hole. Turn the hook clockwise to screw it into the overhead structure until the curved portion of the hook meets the wood. If the hook becomes difficult to turn, Insert a screwdriver into the curved portion to act as a handle for easier turning.

3. Hang the plant on the hook. If you are using a traditional plant container and plant hanger, hang the plant hanger on the hook. Spread the suspension lines apart and place the plant into the bottom of the hanger. Evenly distribute the suspension lines of the plant hanger around the base of the planter and adjust the position of the plant container so its rim is level.

Wall or Post Suspension

1. Position the plant-hanging bracket on a sturdy wall or post, where you want to hang the plant. The mounting surface should be oriented vertically. Pass the tip of a pencil through each screw-hole in the bracket to mark their positions on the wall or post. Remove the bracket. Drill horizontal pilot holes into the wall or post, approximately the same depth as the length of the screws. The drill bit must be slightly smaller in diameter than the threaded portions of the screws.

2. Reposition the hanging bracket, aligning the screw holes. Affix the bracket to the wall or post by passing the tip of a screw through each screw hole and turning it clockwise to tighten.

3. Hang the plant on the bracket. If you are using a traditional plant container and plant hanger, hang the plant hanger on the bracket. Spread the suspension lines apart and place the plant into the bottom of the hanger. Evenly distribute the suspension lines of the plant hanger around the base of the planter and adjust the position of the plant container so its rim is level.

References

• University of Nebraska Lincoln: Care of Hanging Baskets

Resources

• Planet Green: Solution for Gardening in Tight Spaces: Hang Plants from the Ceiling!