Gardening is such a rewarding hobby but knowing where to begin can be daunting and can often put people off. My advice would be to start small with a simple hanging basket or window tub which is a fantastic way to add colour and charm to your home. So, if you’re new to gardening, don’t worry, here’s a simple guide to help you choose the right plants and materials, and create your own splendid hanging basket or window tub.
1. Choosing the Right Basket or Tub
When selecting a hanging basket or window tub, it’s important to choose one that fits the space you have. Here are some things to consider:
- Size: Ensure the basket or tub is large enough to hold your plants and give their roots room to grow. Small baskets can get crowded quickly, while large ones may be too heavy for some hooks or rails.
- Material: Hanging baskets come in various materials, such as wire, plastic, or woven. Wire baskets are great for drainage, but they need liners. Plastic baskets are lightweight and often come with built-in drainage. Window tubs are typically plastic or wood and are designed to fit on windowsills or railings.
- Drainage: Make sure the container has holes at the bottom for excess water to escape, as standing water can cause plant roots to rot. If you are planning on making a window tub, don’t forget to place a drainage tray underneath to catch excess water.
2. Choosing the Right Plants
Select plants that will thrive in your local conditions:
- Full Sun Plants: If your hanging basket or window tub will be in a sunny location, go for plants that love sunlight, such as petunias, geraniums, or marigolds.
- Shade-Loving Plants: If your space gets less direct sunlight, choose plants like begonias, impatiens, or ferns.
- Combination Planters: You can mix plants with different heights, textures, and colours. For example, use trailing plants like ivy or lobelia at the edges and taller plants like geraniums or snapdragons in the centre.
3. Preparing the Basket or Tub
Once you’ve selected your container and plants, it’s time to set up:
- Add a Liner: For hanging baskets, line the interior with coco liners, moss, or plastic liners to help retain moisture and keep the soil in place.
- Fill with Soil: Use good-quality potting mix, which is light and drains well. Avoid using garden soil, as it can become compacted and may not drain well in containers.
- Planting: Gently remove the plants from their pots and loosen their roots. Place the plants into the container, making sure their roots are spread out and the plants are at the correct depth. Fill in around the roots with more potting mix, pressing gently to secure them.
4. Caring for Your Hanging Basket or Window Tub
Now that your basket or tub is planted, here’s how to care for it:
- Watering: Containers dry out faster than ground-planted gardens, so check the soil daily. Water when it feels dry about an inch deep. Make sure the water drains properly and avoid letting the plants sit in standing water.
- Fertilizing: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks to give your plants the nutrients they need. Follow the instructions on the label for best results.
- Deadheading: Regularly remove dead flowers to encourage new blooms and keep your plants looking tidy.
5. Hanging or Placing Your Basket
When hanging a basket, choose a sturdy hook or bracket that can support the weight of the basket when it’s wet. Make sure it’s in a location where your plants can get the appropriate amount of sunlight and don’t forget you will need to reach it to water it!
For window tubs, secure them to the windowsill or railing, ensuring they’re stable and won’t tip over in the wind. Plastic ties are good for this and commonly available from garden centres.
Making a hanging basket or window tub doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right container, plants, and care, you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful display of flowers or greenery, no matter your gardening experience. Whether you choose a sunny or shady spot, the process can be a fun and relaxing way to start your gardening journey!