If you wonder how to water hanging baskets properly to ensure your plants thrive, you might be surprised to know that watering well can make such a big difference to the health of your plants. Hanging baskets and containers can bring a lot of colour and joy to a garden. They're especially good for small spaces where using vertical areas is ideal, they can be full of colourful flowers or edible produce for an extended period from spring to summer with the proper care.
The important part of how to water hanging baskets
Watering plants gives them the moisture they need to thrive, especially when there is little rain. Any plant grown in a container or basket as opposed to directly in the ground, will need more watering because plants soon use up the resources in the compost, and will quickly dry out. Always make sure there are drainage holes, so your plants aren’t sitting in wet compost.
Use rainwater to water hanging baskets
Rainwater is the best way to water your plants and hanging baskets. Try collecting rainwater in water butts to use on your plants as needed.
How to water hanging baskets and retain water
There are a few ways to help retain moisture in baskets and containers:
- Place a plant saucer in the bottom of the liner.
- Using coconut coir liner will help with water retention.
- Using a good quality compost will help to retain moisture. Water retaining crystals may need to be added.
- Or use a compost containing water retention crystals such as Miracle Gro Moisture Control.
Which is best? Morning or night to water hanging baskets?
Mornings tend to be the best time of day to water your garden. Your plants will be able to have a good drink before the hotter days, and also it helps if you have slugs and snails who tend to like moisture and will be out at night time.
How to water hanging baskets with self-watering containers
Lakeside has plenty of watering options on offer for hanging baskets, pots and containers. Call into our shop to see the full range.
