4 Reasons Hanging Baskets Struggle – And How To Rescue Them!
With careful maintenance, hanging baskets can recover from many issues and regain their health and beauty. Here are four typical hanging basket issues and how to fix them:
Plant water stress occurs when hanging baskets, especially those in high sunlight and wind, dry up quickly. Weak leaves, dry soil, and stunted development imply drowning.
1. Lack of Water
Check soil wetness often with your finger. When the top inch of soil seems dry, water the hanging basket. Water the root ball until the basket drains. Place a saucer under the basket to catch water and reduce drainage.
Rescue Tip
Due to their small root space, hanging basket plants may deplete soil nutrients faster than ground plants. Insufficient nutrition can cause pale or yellow leaves, stunted growth, and poor flowering.
2. Deficiency of nutrients
Apply balanced water-soluble or slow-release fertilizer to hanging basket plants regularly. Follow fertilizer rates and frequency on the package. For quick nutritional boosts, use liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.
Rescue Tip
As they grow, hanging basket plants may compete for water, nutrients, and sunlight. Overcrowded conditions impede ventilation, raise disease risk, and diminish vigor.
3. Overcrowding
Remove growth or move congested plants to other containers. Prune leggy stems for bushier growth and airflow. Give the surviving plants extra space by repotting the basket with fresh potting mix.
Rescue Tip
Root rot, aphids, spider mites, and fungal illnesses harm hanging baskets. Wilting and death can result from diseases and pests.
4. Pest and Disease
Discolored leaves, webs, and mold should be checked in the hanging basket. Use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or fungicides immediately to control pests and illnesses. Remove and discard severely damaged plant parts to prevent pests and diseases.
Rescue Tip
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