Do you have a collection of beautiful baskets simply taking
up space or collecting dust? Want to put those baskets to good use? Planting in
old baskets is a charming, inexpensive way to show off your favorite plants.
Using baskets as containers isn’t difficult, but the baskets do need a little
prep before they’re ready for plants. The following article explains how and includes
the best plants for baskets.
How to Make a Basket Planter
Nearly any basket will work. However, sturdy and thick
baskets last longer. You may want to apply a coat or two of clear protective
spray or wood sealant, which will also help the basket last longer. Be sure to
let the coating dry thoroughly before planting.
If the basket is very tightly woven, you may be able to go
ahead and plant. Most baskets, though, need some type of lining added to retain
moisture and prevent loss of soil.
Plastic makes a good lining for planting in old baskets. You
may be able to find a ready-made plastic liner at a garden center or simply
line the basket with a plastic garbage bag. Use a glue gun to secure the edges.
Be sure to cut a few slits in the plastic so excess water can drain.
Sphagnum
moss is another good option – either ready-to-use moss forms or loose moss
that can be packed around the inside of the basket.
If you’d like a more rustic appearance, you can line the
basket with burlap and let the burlap drape naturally over the rim of the
basket. Paper coffee filters work well for small baskets.
Although it isn’t necessary, a handful of plastic shipping
peanuts or shredded bark in the bottom of the basket will enhance drainage.
Planting in Old Baskets
Fill the basket about two-thirds of the way to the top with
good quality, lightweight potting soil. Avoid heavy potting mixes and never use
garden soil, as this will soon become so compacted that plants can’t survive.
Let the fun begin! Your old basket is ready to fill with
your favorite plants. Although it’s possible to plant perennials in old
baskets, most people prefer annuals
that are replaced every spring. This way, you can bring your old basket indoors
for the winter and prolong its life.
What are the best plants for baskets? Here are some ideas to
get you started:
- Annuals: Old baskets look great with a focal point, also known as a thriller. Any tall, eye-catching plant works well, including upright geraniums or dracaena. Surround the thriller with a filler – a mounding plant like petunias or pansies. If your old basket is in a shady spot, begonias or impatiens make good fillers. Lastly, plant a few spillers such as ivy geranium, bacopa, or sweet potato vine around the edges where they can flow over the sides of the container.
- Succulents: Once planted, succulents require very little care. Nearly any succulent plant will work, including hen and chicks or various types of sedum.
- Herbs: Fill your old basket with a few herbs and place it near your kitchen door. Herbs that do well in containers include chives, mint, thyme, and basil.
Using baskets as containers is a great way to showcase your
favorite plants. They also make nice gifts too. Care for plants in baskets just
as you would for those planted in any other type of container.
Do you have a collection of beautiful baskets simply taking
up space or collecting dust? Want to put those baskets to good use? Planting in
old baskets is a charming, inexpensive way to show off your favorite plants.
Using baskets as containers isn’t difficult, but the baskets do need a little
prep before they’re ready for plants. The following article explains how and includes
the best plants for baskets.
How to Make a Basket Planter
Nearly any basket will work. However, sturdy and thick
baskets last longer. You may want to apply a coat or two of clear protective
spray or wood sealant, which will also help the basket last longer. Be sure to
let the coating dry thoroughly before planting.
If the basket is very tightly woven, you may be able to go
ahead and plant. Most baskets, though, need some type of lining added to retain
moisture and prevent loss of soil.
Plastic makes a good lining for planting in old baskets. You
may be able to find a ready-made plastic liner at a garden center or simply
line the basket with a plastic garbage bag. Use a glue gun to secure the edges.
Be sure to cut a few slits in the plastic so excess water can drain.
Sphagnum
moss is another good option – either ready-to-use moss forms or loose moss
that can be packed around the inside of the basket.
If you’d like a more rustic appearance, you can line the
basket with burlap and let the burlap drape naturally over the rim of the
basket. Paper coffee filters work well for small baskets.
Although it isn’t necessary, a handful of plastic shipping
peanuts or shredded bark in the bottom of the basket will enhance drainage.
Planting in Old Baskets
Fill the basket about two-thirds of the way to the top with
good quality, lightweight potting soil. Avoid heavy potting mixes and never use
garden soil, as this will soon become so compacted that plants can’t survive.
Let the fun begin! Your old basket is ready to fill with
your favorite plants. Although it’s possible to plant perennials in old
baskets, most people prefer annuals
that are replaced every spring. This way, you can bring your old basket indoors
for the winter and prolong its life.
What are the best plants for baskets? Here are some ideas to
get you started:
- Annuals: Old baskets look great with a focal point, also known as a thriller. Any tall, eye-catching plant works well, including upright geraniums or dracaena. Surround the thriller with a filler – a mounding plant like petunias or pansies. If your old basket is in a shady spot, begonias or impatiens make good fillers. Lastly, plant a few spillers such as ivy geranium, bacopa, or sweet potato vine around the edges where they can flow over the sides of the container.
- Succulents: Once planted, succulents require very little care. Nearly any succulent plant will work, including hen and chicks or various types of sedum.
- Herbs: Fill your old basket with a few herbs and place it near your kitchen door. Herbs that do well in containers include chives, mint, thyme, and basil.
Using baskets as containers is a great way to showcase your
favorite plants. They also make nice gifts too. Care for plants in baskets just
as you would for those planted in any other type of container.