What are the best plants for hanging baskets in the shade? It’s the dream of every gardener to have a gorgeous and healthy garden. One popular way to beautify a home garden is through hanging baskets. They can brighten up a dull corner, add some color to a fence, or even decorate your balcony. But, the biggest challenge gardeners face is being able to grow plants in the shade. However, that’s by no means impossible! In this blog, we’ll take you through some of the best plants for hanging baskets in shade and how to care for them.
Best Plants for Shade Baskets
The selection of plants that can thrive in shady conditions is limited, but it’s still diverse enough to create beautiful hanging baskets. Here are some of the best plants for such conditions:
Fuchsias
Fuchsias are among the most popular plants for hanging baskets in shade. They come in a huge variety of colors, from bold purples to light pinks. To keep them healthy, they need regular watering and moist soil.
Impatiens
Impatiens are a bright and cheerful addition to any hanging basket. They come in a variety of colors, from vibrant reds to delicate pinks. To keep them healthy, they need regular watering and moist soil.
Begonias
Begonias are easy-to-care-for plants that are ideal for hanging baskets. They come in a variety of colors, from bright pinks to soft yellows. To keep them healthy, they need regular watering and moist soil.
Ivy
Ivy is a classic plant for hanging baskets. It comes in many varieties, from deep green to variegated colors. To keep it healthy, like with most shade loving plants, it needs regular watering and moist soil.
Spider Plants
Spider plants are a popular choice for hanging baskets in shade. They come in several varieties, from bright green to variegated colors. To keep them healthy, as with all shade loving plants they need regular watering and moist soil.
Pothos
Pothos are one of the most popular plants for hanging baskets in shade. They come in a variety of colors, from bright green to yellow-variegated. To keep them healthy, they need regular watering and moist soil.
Boston Ferns
Boston ferns are an easy-to-care-for hanging basket plant that thrive in shady conditions. To keep them healthy, as with most shade lovers, they need regular watering and moist soil.
Asparagus Ferns
Asparagus ferns are a popular choice for hanging baskets in shade. They come in several varieties, from bright green to variegated colors. To keep them healthy, they need regular watering and moist soil.
English Ivy
English ivy is a classic plant for hanging baskets in shade. It comes in several varieties, from deep green to variegated colors. To keep it healthy, it needs regular watering and moist soil.
These plants are guaranteed to add some color and interest to your space, even if it lacks sunlight.
Best Pot for Hanging Shade Loving Baskets
The best type of pot for hanging baskets in shade is one that drains well. This is because plants grown in the shade are more susceptible to mold and fungal growth due to the excess moisture in the soil. Hanging baskets made of porous materials like woven wicker or wire are ideal, as they allow air to flow freely through the soil, reducing the chance of mold and disease.
Soil type for Plants in Shade Loving Hanging Baskets
Plants grown in hanging baskets require a well-draining soil mix. Therefore, soil type for hanging baskets should consist of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. Adding a bit of light organic matter like coconut coir or sphagnum moss can also help to retain moisture, which is critical, especially in the shade.
Water Requirements for Shade Loving Plants
Plants in hanging baskets require frequent watering, especially during dry spells. Watering is one of the most important factors in keeping these plants healthy and thriving. But, it would be best if you were careful not to over-water them. The frequency and amount of watering your plants need will depend on the plant species, size of the container, and the weather conditions. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering to prevent over-saturation.
Fertilizer for Shade Loving Plants in Hanging Baskets
Plants grown in hanging baskets require a lot of nutrients, so feed them with a balanced fertilizer that’s rich in nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. You can use a commercial or organic fertilizer every two to four weeks during the growing season. Doing this will ensure your plants are receiving an additional growth boost during the summer.
Happy Gardening!!
In conclusion, the best plants for hanging baskets in shade are those that can thrive without direct sunlight. Proper care of the plants in these conditions is essential, including the choice of pot type, soil mix, and watering requirements. By following the care tips shared above, you can ensure the longevity and health of your hanging baskets, bringing some color and life to your home. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your plant choice and display of hanging baskets; after all, this is one of the best things about gardening!
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