Hanging baskets are a great way to add instant charm and color to your outdoor spaces. Whether cascading with petunias, fuchsias, or trailing ivy geraniums, they bring life to porches, patios, and balconies.
As the summer heat rises—especially in the southern states—these vibrant displays can quickly fade if not given the care they need. But with a little attention and consistency, your hanging baskets can stay healthy and beautiful all season long. Here are a few essential tips to help your baskets beat the heat.
Water, Water, Water
In the height of summer, consistent watering is critical. Hanging baskets dry out faster than in-ground plants due to air circulation around the container and the sheer number of thirsty plant roots packed into a small space. Here is what you need to do.
Make it part of your daily routine in hot climates and during heatwaves: In southern regions or during heatwaves, watering every day, sometimes twice a day, is a must. Using a watering wand to reach your baskets makes this task easier. Water thoroughly: Always water until it runs out of the bottom of the basket. Rehydrate dried-out baskets: If the soil has dried out completely, take the basket down and soak the base in a bucket of water until the soil is fully saturated again. This ensures moisture reaches the plant roots, not just the surface.
Watering Wand
Feed Them Regularly
With frequent watering comes a downside—nutrients get washed away. Without replenishment, your plants can suffer from weak growth and fewer blooms. Using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, feed your plants every one to two weeks.
Jack’s Classic Blossom Booster 1.5 lbs
Deadhead to Encourage New Blooms
Deadheading—or removing spent flowers—not only tidies up your plants but also encourages them to produce more blooms. Using snips or your finger, gently cut or pinch off dead or faded flowers just above the nearest healthy set of leaves or bud. Doing this every few days keeps your basket looking fresh and encourages continual flowering.
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