Homebase details the best way to prepare hanging baskets
Depending on the plants in the hanging basket, some need full sun, while others may prefer partial shade, but what they all have in common is that they need to be watered.
In fact, some baskets in the full sunshine may even need watering twice a day during hot weather, according to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
The experts said: “Check baskets every day in summer, watering always unless the compost is wet.
“Drying out is an increasing risk as the plants grow and days remain warm or windy.
“An easy way to check if they need water is to gently lift or nudge the baskets to gauge how heavy they are.”
If the hanging basket feels really light in weight, gardeners should water them more often.
The experts added: “Try to avoid them drying out to the point where plants start to droop (wilting point).
“If they do wilt, you can place a bucket underneath to capture the water that runs off the surface as you water them and return it to the basket.”
This can also save the plant from losing nutrients which they need for flowering. When watering a hanging basket, try to avoid wetting the foliage and flowers, aiming for the roots only.
Don’t miss…
Common gardening mistakes which can ‘weaken’ plants and even lead to ‘death’[LATEST]
Five ‘inexpensive’ tips to revamp garden patios and ‘brighten’ the space up[COMMENT]
I used white vinegar to make my towels fluffy again – how it worked[INSIGHT]
This is because watering the foliage can result in them being crushed or scorched, especially when watering them at the wrong time of day.
To help “retain” water, gardeners can use different tricks when planting their hanging baskets up.
The RHS explained: “Place a small circle of plastic (cut from a margarine tub or similar) in the bottom of the basket before filling with compost to create a saucer that will help stop water running straight out of the bottom.
“Once the basket is filled, place a small empty flower pot in the centre to take the water and allow it time to soak in rather than running off the surface of the compost.”
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
When flowering, deadheading can also encourage the hanging baskets to grow fuller and bushier.
This is because it can help to prevent the plants’ energy going into seed production, rather than more flowers.
To deadhead hanging baskets, simply pinch the spent flower head and remove it, before trimming thicker stems with secateurs.
Flowers positioned in baskets may also have problems flowering if they are being fed without sufficient feeding.
The RHS said: “Water the basket first before using diluted feed. Fed one a week with a liquid fertiliser, although not all composts need feed, check the bag for instructions.”
Source: Read Full Article