Are you keen to get going on your spring planting but know its slightly too early to do so? How about sorting out some hanging baskets that will erupt in flowers before you’ve even planted your first tomatoes.

Hanging baskets are a great way to liven up any area, whether it’s a large or small space. Suspend them in entrance ways, under verandas, decks and patios.

And what’s really great about baskets is they are super easy to assemble. Grab a basket from your local The Warehouse or Bunnings. Many come with a fitted coconut liner but if not get some sphagnum moss to line it with.  You can also get your seedlings while you’re there or order from our online shop 

Baskets come in wide wire frames, more compact versions of wicker style or solid conical shapes. Whatever you choose I recommend getting a basket/s at least approx 30cm in diameter.

Solid baskets have the benefit of not drying out as quickly. But they don’t allow for you to cascade plants around the sides and base of the basket. Wire ones have a real cottage garden feel.

Coconut liners are solid and ideal for wire baskets with bigger gaps. Using sphagnum moss wouldn’t work on a wire basket as the moss would fall through the gaps.

Some baskets come with a self-watering reservoir which might save you watering for a few days in summer. I like to place an old saucer at the bottom of the basket which acts as a water catcher and helps the basket to retain its moisture.

When assembling your basket, first soak the liner in a bucket of water for five minutes to really help its hydration. Line your basket with the coconut or moss liner. Then fill it almost to the top with lightweight potting soil mix and compost.

An easy trick here is to balance your round basket on an old bucket so it stays flat while you are assembling it.

If you want to get fancy try mixing in some water gel crystals from Bunnings. They retain water in the summer months and help if you miss a day or two of watering.

And now for your plants. Awapuni Nurseries have a vibrant hanging basket mix which features a range of suitable, seasonal flowers. Currently it’s likely to include lobelia, pansy, English daisy, dwarf antirrhinum, viola  and primula. Although this does change with the seasons. You can order online and have them delivered direct to your door.

Try adding plants in the middle that pack a bit of height. Dwarf antirrhinum (also known as dwarf snapdragons) are perfect for this. Or looking for something a bit more practical and close to kitchen? Add some parsley or basil  in the middle and keep your cascading flowers on the edges.

Wondering how many to add to one basket? If it’s 30cm across three to five plants is suitable. Slightly wider and you could easily fit seven. I like a really full basket right from the start so I really pack them in.

Once established hanging baskets require little maintenance other than regular watering – especially during the hot summer months. But right now they won’t need a lot of water.

So, stop waiting for spring to arrive to get back out into your gardens. Spring to it now and plant some baskets.

Happy hanging.