The Best Flowers for a Hanging Basket Arrangement

Hanging baskets add a burst of color and vibrancy to any space, whether on a porch, balcony, or garden. The best flowers for a hanging basket arrangement are those that are low-maintenance, have trailing or cascading growth habits, and thrive in the given light conditions. Choosing the right flowers ensures a lush, long-lasting display throughout the growing season. Here are some of the best flowers for a stunning hanging basket arrangement.

1. Petunias (Petunia spp.)

Petunias are a classic choice for hanging baskets due to their profuse blooming and wide range of colors, including pink, purple, white, red, and even bi-colored varieties. They thrive in full sun and require regular deadheading to encourage continuous blooms. Trailing petunia varieties, such as Wave or Supertunia, spill beautifully over the edges, creating a cascading effect.

2. Geraniums (Pelargonium spp.)

Geraniums are another popular option, known for their bright clusters of flowers and long-lasting blooms. Ivy-leafed geraniums are particularly well-suited for hanging baskets as they have a trailing habit. They require full to partial sun and benefit from regular feeding to maintain their vibrant display.

3. Lobelia (Lobelia erinus)

Lobelia produces masses of small, delicate flowers in shades of blue, purple, white, and pink. It thrives in cooler temperatures and partial shade, making it an excellent choice for spring and fall arrangements. Trailing lobelia varieties drape over the basket, adding an airy, cascading effect.

4. Fuchsia (Fuchsia spp.)

Fuchsia flowers are unique, pendulous blooms that come in stunning combinations of pink, purple, red, and white. These shade-loving plants are perfect for hanging baskets in sheltered areas, such as patios and porches. Regular watering and feeding will keep them blooming throughout the season.

5. Bacopa (Sutera cordata)

Bacopa is a vigorous trailing plant that produces tiny white, pink, or blue flowers. It is easy to care for and works well as a filler plant in mixed hanging baskets. Bacopa thrives in full to partial sun and requires consistent moisture to prevent wilting.

6. Calibrachoa (Calibrachoa spp.)

Often called “million bells,” calibrachoa resembles small petunias and blooms profusely throughout the season. It is available in a variety of colors and grows best in full sun. This trailing plant is ideal for creating a full, cascading effect in hanging baskets.

7. Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritima)

Sweet alyssum is known for its small, fragrant flowers and rapid growth. It works well as a filler plant in hanging baskets, providing a soft, trailing element. Alyssum thrives in full to partial sun and can tolerate light drought conditions.

8. Begonias (Begonia spp.)

Begonias, especially tuberous and trailing varieties, are excellent choices for shaded hanging baskets. They produce beautiful, ruffled blooms in bright colors like red, pink, and orange. Begonias are low-maintenance and can tolerate partial to full shade.

9. Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus)

Nasturtiums are edible flowers that produce trailing vines covered in bright orange, red, or yellow blooms. They prefer full sun and require minimal maintenance. Their rounded leaves add an interesting texture to hanging baskets.

10. Verbena (Verbena spp.)

Verbena is a drought-tolerant plant that blooms throughout the summer. It comes in a variety of colors and has a cascading growth habit. This sun-loving flower pairs well with other trailing plants in a mixed hanging basket.

11. Trailing Pansies (Viola spp.)

Pansies are traditionally known for their upright growth, but trailing varieties are perfect for hanging baskets. They bloom in cooler temperatures and are available in a wide range of colors. Pansies thrive in partial shade and require regular watering.

12. Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’ (Dichondra argentea)

This unique trailing plant features silvery-green foliage that spills gracefully over the edge of hanging baskets. Though it does not produce flowers, its cascading habit adds texture and contrast when paired with colorful blooms.

Tips for a Beautiful Hanging Basket Arrangement

• Choose Complementary Colors: Mix colors that complement each other for an eye-catching display.

• Combine Different Growth Habits: Use a mix of trailing, mounding, and upright plants for a balanced look.

• Ensure Proper Drainage: Use well-draining potting soil and a basket with drainage holes to prevent root rot.

• Water Regularly: Hanging baskets dry out quickly, so frequent watering is essential, especially in hot weather.

• Fertilize for Continuous Blooms: Use a liquid or slow-release fertilizer to keep flowers blooming all season long.

By carefully selecting flowers that suit your climate and light conditions, you can create a vibrant, long-lasting hanging basket arrangement that enhances any outdoor space.