Guide to creating vibrant hanging baskets for your summer garden

With the sun shining and outdoor spaces becoming the focal point, it's the perfect time to inject some vibrant hues into your patio, small balcony or front door area. What's more, hanging baskets are a breeze to look after and they don't encroach on valuable ground space, which means there's still plenty of room for that quaint bistro set for when the sunshine beckons and it's time for a refreshing drink.

Julian Palphramand, plant expert at British Garden Centres, has provided a step-by-step guide to crafting a stunning hanging basket that will flourish throughout the summer season.

Selecting Your Plants for Summer. The key to preparation is picking the right plants.

Palphramand suggests consulting with specialists to pick out bright, eye-catching flowers that are ideal for hanging baskets.

"Some excellent choices include petunias, fuchsias, lobelia, and geraniums, which are known for their ability to thrive in the sunny summer weather and will add a delightful burst of colour to your outdoor space."

"All you need is a wall, or fence to hang from! ".

Creating Your Basket. When putting together a striking hanging basket, it's crucial to use a variety of trailing, upright, and filler plants....

This approach is often called the Thriller, Filler and Spiller technique, Palphramand notes. "Trailing plants, such as trailing petunias or bacopa, can elegantly cascade over the edges, adding a graceful touch to the arrangement."

"Upright plants, like geraniums or fuchsias, not only provide height, but also contribute to the overall structure of the basket."

To achieve a lush and full look, Palphramand says it's advisable to fill any gaps with filler plants such as lobelia or verbena. "This combination results in a visually appealing and well-balanced hanging basket display that will wow in your garden."

Planting. Remember to line the basket if necessary, and fill it with high-quality, multi-purpose compost.

"You can add water-retaining granules to help maintain moisture, which is crucial for hanging baskets that tend to dry out quickly," notes Palphramand.

"It's also a good idea to mix in a slow-release plant food to provide consistent nutrients to your plants over the season."

He continues: "Start by placing the thriller plants in the centre of the basket. Then, add filler plants around the central ones. Finally, position the spiller plants near the edges, so they can cascade down."

When planting, Palphramand says to make sure to firm the compost around the roots and water thoroughly to settle the plants in place.

Designing. Creating a visually stunning garden involves more than just planting your favourite flowers.

"A well-thought-out colour scheme is essential for a cohesive look," highlights Palphramand. You might opt for complementary colours like purple and yellow for a vibrant contrast, or soft colours such as pink, purple, and blue to evoke a sense of calm."

He emphasises that texture and form are just as crucial as colour. "Incorporating plants with varied leaf textures and unique flower shapes can add layers of visual interest."

"Additionally, the arrangement of your plants can significantly impact the garden's overall feel symmetrical designs lend a formal, structured appearance, while asymmetrical layouts offer a more natural and relaxed vibe."

To ensure your hanging basket remains a stunning feature throughout the summer, proper maintenance is key:

"Regular watering is crucial, especially during hot spells as containers tend to dry out quicker," Palphramand advises.

"Removing dead flowers and any wilted or yellow leaves will help the plants to keep blooming. Also, remember to feed your plants every few weeks to ensure they have the nutrients they need for healthy growth."

When it comes to positioning, choosing the right spot for your plants is essential based on their light needs.... "It's important to note that while most summer flowering plants thrive in full sun, some may prefer partial shade, but your local garden centre team will be able to assist with this," Palphramand notes.

"Ensure the hanging basket is securely fastened using appropriate hooks or brackets to withstand potential strong summer breezes," he continues.