Partial sun hanging basket
The success of hanging baskets hinges on making good choices based on location of the planter. Full sun or shade locations require very different choices of flowers. Very hardy annuals such as vinca, vinca vine, spikes, geranium, and gerber daisies handle full sun quite well with adequate water. More tender annuals, such a petunias, New Guinea impatiens or begonias need 3 to 4 hours of sun each day. Annuals such coleus and caladium offer beautiful variegated leaves and can be safely planted in full shade. Visit your local garden center and notice the shade-loving plants under cover or indoors in the greenhouse. The more hardy full-sun annuals usually line the aisles of the nursery in full view and full sun.
Large hanging basket on a gazebo
Hanging baskets look best when symmetrically designed. An even number of plants, placed in a circular pattern fills in and grows well within a few weeks. Balanced planting within a basket also allows the gardener to rotate the hanging basket for the health of the plant. Mixing and matching different annuals with varying colors and leaf textures only adds character to the planter.
Designing a hanging basket requires considering both height and depth. Create height with a taller annual or foliage annual such as a spike in the center of the basket with a ring of annuals around this focal point. Place trailing plants such vinca vine, petunias or verbena near the edges to encourage the plants to flow over the planter rim for a more finished look. Mixing and matching colors adds variety to your hanging gardens. Blend colors with your regular garden landscape or choose completely different colors to bring attention to the hanging baskets.
