Garden Blog

Annuals, Pt. 3 of 3

Containers are an excellent way of providing an accent of color around the patio, pool or other areas.

Containers & Hanging Baskets

Containers are an excellent way of providing an accent of color around the patio, pool or other areas. Vines and petunias are some of the most popular container annuals but the possibilities are almost limitless. Plants that hang over or cascade make especially attractive basket items.

When deciding on a basket, consider one that is 10 inches in diameter or larger. A larger basket holds more soil and reduces frequency of watering and fertilizing.

For hanging baskets, always try to place the basket where the plants light requirements are satisfied. Since hanging baskets are exposed to wind and air on all sides, they are especially prone to drying out. To get the best performance from plants in hanging baskets, check the soil regularly for moisture. With all containers, check the moisture by sticking your finger in the soil before you water.

Because they deplete existing nutrients quickly and have no means to obtain more, all plants in containers need to be fertilized with more frequency than annuals planted in the landscape.