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Hanging Baskets |
Baskets are made from natural materials, and need a certain amount of care to
maintain their looks and usefulness.
Although they are sturdy, don't overload them.
Baskets need a certain amount of moisture, but don't let them stay in a damp
area.
Mist very lightly once a year or so.
Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Keep them free of dust and dirt.
Protect the basket from grease and food by lining with a napkin. To care for
your Baskets, use a clean, dry, soft bristled
brush like a paint brush. Use a vacuum every now and then to remove the dust
that can collect between splints. Try not to spray or submerge in water. This
applies to stained & natural stained baskets as well as with color weaving.
Store away from air ducts and direct sunlight to keep from getting too dry and
faded.
Preparation:
Choose a hanging basket or pot at least 10 inches in diameter. Anything smaller
will dry out too quickly in warm weather. If you are preparing the soil,
purchase a good quality potting mix. Add some water-absorbing polymer to hold
moisture longer.
Selection:
Choose the right plant for the location. Consider the number of hours of direct
sun, time of day that the plant will receive the sun, and whether the location
is windy or sheltered. Remember that July and August are normally HOT! Hang
fuchsias, pansies, and lobelias early in the season and enjoy them in late
spring and early summer. Replace with more heat- tolerant annuals as summer
warms and those plants look tired. See our Bulletin #254 for specific plant
suggestions.
When to water?
This is the task most critical to the success of your container plants! All
plants do not become dry at the same moment, even if all the same variety and/or
purchased on the same day.
Water when soil is barely moist. Soil just under the surface will feel cool, but
not wet or muddy. Lift up on bottom of hanging pots to see how heavy they feel
when fully watered. You will begin to be able to judge when plants need watering
by the weight of the pot.
Be consistent. Try to check soil at same time each day. And DO CHECK DAILY!
Water early enough to allow foliage to dry by evening. This will reduce fungal
problems.
How much to water?
Water until excess runs from holes in bottom of pot. Use pots without saucers,
or empty saucer 10 minutes after watering or after rain showers. Give the plant
the same amount of water each time; vary only the frequency of watering.
Fertilizing:
Container plants are dependent upon you for food. The frequent watering required
tends to wash nutrients out of the soil quickly. Use Osmocote 14-14-14, or a
water soluble fertilizer like MiracleGro. Follow directions on container, but do
not exceed suggested amounts. More is not better.
If you choose a liquid fertilizer, apply at least monthly through September.
Many people prefer to fertilize weekly to keep plants growing steadily. Follow
weekly directions on container or feed at one-fourth the monthly rate.
Note: Fertilize only when soil is already damp and only when air temperatures
are below 90 degrees |
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