Keep Your Planters & Hanging Baskets Looking Good

Keeping those beautiful hanging baskets looking good doesn't take a lot of time and it isn't necessary to work on them often. All it takes is a little pruning from time to time to keep them blooming and full. For all of you that purchased hanging baskets back in April and earlier this month it's about time to get those scissors out and do a little clipping to keep your plants looking nice and full and with lots of flowers. In fact, when you do this periodic pruning you will have many more flowers than if you don't do this maintenance. Randomly cut back the longer stems from 2 - 4".

Most gardeners are afraid to trim their plants because they are not sure how to do it or where to begin. It is really not that critical where the pruning cuts are made but it is a good idea to make the cuts close to a node (where a leaf or bud can be seen along the stem of the plant). It is very difficult to cause serious damage to your "annual" plants when you trim them. And, if by chance you do make an error, it isn't the end of the world, remember the plants are growing and will soon cover the pruning you are doing in a short time. After some experience you will truly enjoy the results.

The two key factors in keeping your planters and hanging baskets looking good in addition to the trimming is watering and feeding.
• Watering- When it comes to watering it is necessary to let the container soil dry down some to allow the proper level of oxygen in the root zone. Remember, roots can drown (rot) if they are kept too wet for too long of a period. On the other hand they should not be allowed to completely dry out. A little "wilt" between waterings is ok but not a too severe.
• Feeding- The best way to keep your hanging basket thriving is to provide a constant source of nutrients. This can be done by feeding your hanging baskets or container gardens a couple of times a week with a water soluble fertilizer like Jack's or Miracle Gro. However, the easiest way to provide a steady diet for these plants is by using a controlled release fertilizer like Osmocote. One application will last the entire summer. In addition, a supplement of a Jack's type of fertilizer once a month is a good practice.

Here's to one of the best growing seasons you have ever experienced. Send your gardening questions to: info@meadowview.com and we'll do our best to assist you.

Meadow View Growers

34 years of growing for you

www.meadowview.com.

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