Hanging Basket Care Tips
Hanging Basket, Patio Pot or Window Box care is not difficult, but it is specific. Your arrangement is “contained” so it requires you to provide water and food to nourish. Unlike plants in the ground which can send their roots deep in the earth looking for water, container plants need your diligence to keep them healthy, growing and blooming.
Make sure you have an arrangement that is suitable to your conditions (sun, shade, wind). Assess when your plant requires water; in most cases container arrangements in the sun will require daily watering. Shade arrangements may need water less frequently. Water thoroughly and deeply and until the container feels heavy and water drips from the drainage hole. If the plant is too dry, water will run out quickly. In this case the soil is stressed and has shrunken form the side of the pot allowing the water to run out quickly. Water it then re-water a short time later when the soil has relaxed and expanded. If possible, water in the morning so your arrangement is fully hydrated going in to the heat of the day.
If using liquid or water soluble fertilizer, fertilizer is required at least every two weeks. If using slow release pellets, reapply mid-summer. Be sure to not fertilize when the soil is dry as the fertilizer may burn the roots. Dampen first with clear water, then use fertilized water.
Environmental factors providing intense extremes like frosty nights, cool winds or relentless heat can damage your arrangement. Be aware of weather conditions and set down out of wind or sun or inside overnight if needed to protect.
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