Hanging baskets are a delightful way to add a splash of colour and texture to any outdoor space, from balconies and patios to front porches. Not only do they elevate the aesthetics of your home, but they also offer a practical solution for gardening in limited spaces. In this guide, we'll explore the best plants for your hanging baskets, ideal choices to plant right now, and selections that will keep your outdoor space vibrant from now until the end of summer. Be sure to visit your local Thompson's branch to shop our extensive range of hanging baskets and accompanying plants.
The Best Plants for Hanging Baskets
The secret to a thriving hanging basket lies in selecting the right plants. When choosing, consider their growth habit, care needs, and how they'll complement each other in terms of height, colour, and texture. Here are some top recommendations:
- Petunias: A perennial favourite, petunias offer a cascade of colour throughout the summer. They're available in a vast range of colours, from soft pastels to vibrant hues.
- Fuchsias: Ideal for slightly shaded positions, fuchsias boast elegant, bell-shaped flowers. They're perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your hanging arrangements.
- Begonias: With their rich, vibrant colours and tolerance to partial shade, begonias are another excellent choice for hanging baskets.
- Lobelia: This plant's delicate flowers and trailing habit make it an excellent filler, adding depth and contrast to your basket.
- Geraniums (Pelargoniums): Known for their resilience and colourful blooms, geraniums are a go-to for a sun-drenched spot.
Top 3 plants for hanging baskets
To ensure your hanging baskets flourish, timing is key. Here are some top picks to plant right now:
- Surfinia Petunias: These are specifically bred for their trailing growth, making them an instant hit for an impactful hanging basket.
- Verbena: With its clusters of small, vibrant flowers, verbena adds texture and depth. It's also known for attracting bees and butterflies, adding life to your garden space.
- Calibrachoa: Often referred to as "million bells," these plants resemble miniature petunias and are prolific bloomers, offering a dense display of colour.
Plants for Long-Lasting Display
For a hanging basket that remains vibrant from now until the end of summer, consider these enduring performers:
- Ivy (Hedera): Ivy’s trailing foliage provides a lush, green backdrop throughout the season, making it an excellent base for your hanging basket.
- Bacopa: With its cascading stems and multitude of white or pale blue flowers, bacopa is a resilient choice that blooms continuously.
- Nasturtiums: Not only do they offer bright, peppery blooms, but nasturtiums also have edible flowers, adding a dual-purpose element to your hanging baskets.
Visit Your Local Thompson's Branch
At Thompson's Garden Centres, we're passionate about helping you bring your gardening visions to life. Our extensive range of hanging baskets and plants ensures you'll find the perfect combinations to suit your style and space. Our knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer advice and support, helping you select the best plants for your needs and providing tips on how to care for them. Visit your local Thompson's branch today to explore our selection and start creating your own stunning hanging basket displays. Let Thompson's be the beginning of a beautiful summer filled with vibrant colours and enchanting outdoor spaces.
