Morning glory flowers can indeed be used in hanging baskets, and they can create a stunning display when allowed to trail gracefully down over the sides of the container. One of the benefits of using morning glories in hanging baskets is that they can add a touch of charm and color to your outdoor space, even if you don’t have a large garden or yard.
When selecting morning glory varieties for your hanging baskets, it’s important to choose ones that are well-suited to container gardening. Look for compact or trailing varieties that won’t grow too tall or become too unruly for the confines of a hanging basket. Some popular choices for container morning glories include ‘Heavenly Blue,’ ‘Grandpa Ott,’ and ‘Flying Saucers.’
To plant morning glories in a hanging basket, start by selecting a basket that is at least 12 inches in diameter to allow enough space for the plants to thrive. Fill the basket with a high-quality potting mix that is well-draining but retains moisture. Make sure the basket has drainage holes to prevent water from pooling and causing root rot.
Before planting the morning glory seeds or seedlings, soak them in water for a few hours to help with germination. Once they’ve soaked, plant the seeds or seedlings in the potting mix, following the recommended spacing guidelines for the specific variety. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, and gently water the basket.
Morning glories prefer full sun but can tolerate a bit of afternoon shade. Hang the basket in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If you don’t have a suitable sunny spot, consider placing the basket in an area with bright indirect light.
As the morning glories grow, they will begin to trail down over the sides of the hanging basket, creating a beautiful cascading effect. You may need to gently train the vines to encourage them to grow in the desired direction. Tying them to a trellis or using small clips can help guide their growth.
It’s important to provide regular care for your morning glory hanging basket. Water the plants when the top inch of soil feels dry, being careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize the plants every two weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.
One lovely way to enhance the beauty of morning glory hanging baskets is to pair them with other climbers, such as the moonflower vine. While morning glories open their blooms in the morning, moonflowers open later in the day, creating a wonderful contrast and adding interest to your hanging basket display.
Morning glories can be a fantastic addition to hanging baskets, bringing vibrant colors and a touch of nature to any outdoor space. With proper care and attention, these beautiful flowers will thrive and provide a stunning display for you to enjoy.
