How to Plant Morning Glory in Hanging Basket?

Introduction

Morning glory is a beautiful flowering plant. It belongs to the family Convolvulaceae. Morning glory is known for its large, trumpet-shaped flowers. People commonly use it to decorate gardens, fences, and trellises. Growing morning glory in hanging basket can add color and beauty to your garden.

Choosing the Right Hanging Basket

1. Selecting the Appropriate Size and Material

When picking out a hanging basket for your morning glory, size matters. The basket should be large enough to accommodate the plant's root system. You should choose a basket at least twice the size of the 7 gallon pot.

The material of the hanging basket also plays a crucial role. Plastic hanging baskets are lightweight and durable. However, they tend to retain more moisture. On the other hand, wire baskets allow for better airflow and drainage. But they may be prone to rusting over time.

2. Ensuring Proper Drainage for Healthy Root Growth

Excess water can cause the roots to rot without adequate drainage. This leads to the death of the plant. Choose a basket with multiple holes at the bottom to ensure proper drainage. Line it with a layer of mesh or coffee filters before adding soil.

Furthermore, consider using a potting mix specifically designed for hanging baskets. They are lighter and allow better air circulation around the roots. Add a layer of gravel or small rocks at the bottom of the basket before adding soil to further aid in drainage.

Selecting Morning Glory Varieties

1. Popular Morning Glory for Hanging Baskets

Heavenly Blue: This variety produces large and sky-blue flowers with a white throat. It can grow 10 feet in height.

Grandpa Ott's: This variety has deep purple flowers with a bright pink throat. It can grow up to 12 feet tall and is known for its prolific blooming.

Split Second: This variety has unique double flowers with a deep pink and white color combination. It is a compact grower, reaching only 4-5 feet in height.

2. Considering Color Combinations and Growth Habits

Complementary colors: Consider pairing complementary colors for a visually striking display. For example, blue and orange or purple and yellow.

Contrasting growth habits: Choose varieties with different growth habits to add dimension and interest to your hanging basket. For example, a fast climber and a compact grower.

Balance: Make sure to choose varieties that are similar in size and vigor. Ensure they grow evenly in your hanging basket.

Gathering Essential Supplies

1. High-Quality Potting Mix

Look for one that is specifically formulated for container gardening. These mixes tend to be lighter and better draining than traditional garden soil. Avoid using heavy or compacted soils. This can lead to waterlogged roots and stunted growth.

2. Fertilizers to Promote Blooming

Provide morning glories with the right nutrients will help encourage more flowers. Look for a slow-release fertilizer that is high in phosphorus. This nutrient promotes blooming. You can also opt for a liquid fertilizer to use throughout the growing season.

3. Sturdy Hooks and Hanging Mechanisms

Choose heavy-duty hooks that can withstand the weight of a fully grown morning glory. Make sure they are securely attached to a strong structure. For example, a beam or post. Additionally, ensure your hanging basket is made of durable materials and has proper drainage holes.

Preparing the Hanging Basket

1. Adding a Layer of Pebbles for Improved Drainage

First, add pebbles at the bottom of the plastic hanging baskets. This will prevent water from pooling. Make sure to cover the entire surface evenly.

2. Filling the Basket with Potting Mix

Next, fill the hanging basket with potting mix. Choose a high-quality potting mix that is specifically formulated for hanging baskets. This will provide your morning glories with the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy.

3. Creating a Central Well for Planting

Once the basket is filled with potting mix, create a central well in the middle of the basket. You can plant your morning glory seeds or seedlings in it. Make sure the well is deep enough to accommodate the roots of your plants.

How to Plant Morning Glory in a Hanging Basket?

1. Proper Seed Depth and Spacing Guidelines

When planting morning glory seeds, follow the correct depth and spacing. The recommended depth for planting seeds is about 1/4 inch deep in the soil. If you’re using a hanging basket, use a lightweight potting mix that will allow proper drainage. After placing the seeds, gently cover them with soil and water lightly.

You should plant morning glory seeds at least 6 inches apart from each other. If you’re using a large hanging basket, you can plant multiple seeds to fill it up. This will give your morning glory plants enough space to grow and spread their lovely blooms.

2. Transplanting Seedlings with Care

If you’re planting seedlings instead of seeds, make sure to handle them with care. Gently remove the seedlings from plastic pots for plants. Loosen up the roots before planting morning glory in hanging basket. Make sure to plant at the same depth as they were in their original containers. Water lightly after transplanting.

3. Watering Techniques for Establishing Roots

Water is crucial for establishing strong and healthy root systems in morning glory plants. Water in the morning or evening when the sun is not too harsh. If you’re using a hanging basket, check for proper drainage and adjust your watering accordingly.

Providing Support for Climbing

A. Installing Trellises or Vertical Supports

When planting morning glories in hanging baskets, it's important to plan ahead for their climbing nature. Install trellises or vertical supports in the basket before planting the seeds or seedlings. This will help avoid disturbing the plant's roots later on. Ensure a strong and stable structure for them to climb on.

B. Training Morning Glory Vines for Vertical Growth

In order to train your morning glory vines for vertical growth, gently guide them towards the trellis or support structure as they grow. You can use plant ties or soft string to secure the vines in place and encourage upward growth. Regularly check and adjust the ties as needed. Prevent any damage to these vines.

C. Regular Pruning to Encourage Bushier Growth

Regularly prune them to promote bushier growth in your morning glory plants. This will help redirect their energy towards lateral growth rather than just vertical growth. Use sharp pruning shears to trim the tips of the vines. Remove any dead or damaged leaves. This will also prevent your plant from becoming too top-heavy and ensure a more balanced appearance.

Watering and Feeding Routine

A. Watering Schedule

You should consider the climate when choosing a watering routine. Morning glories thrive in warm weather. They require more frequent watering in hot, dry climates. In moderate temperatures, a thorough watering once or twice a week should suffice.

B. Fertilizer and Application Frequency

When feeding morning glory plants in hanging baskets, choose a well-balanced fertilizer that is high in phosphorus. This will encourage blooming and vibrant flower color. Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season for optimal results.

C. Monitoring Soil Moisture Levels

Morning glory in hanging basket prefer consistently moist soil, but do not tolerate standing water or soggy conditions. Check the soil regularly and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

Remove any dead or damaged leaves or flowers from your morning glory plant. This will promote new growth and keep your plant looking its best.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Addressing Pests and Diseases

Aphids, slugs, and spider mites can susceptible morning glories in hanging baskets. Regularly inspect your plants and remove any pests by hand to prevent infestations. You can also use natural remedies such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Act quickly if your morning glories show signs of disease. For example, yellowing leaves or black spots. Remove the affected parts of the plant and dispose of them immediately. If the issue persists, you may need to use a fungicide specifically designed for morning glories.

2. Managing Overcrowding and Competition

Morning glories grow quickly and vigorously. They can easily overcrowd other plants in a hanging basket. To prevent this, regularly thin out the vines by removing weaker or tangled growth. You can also plant companion plants that have similar growing conditions and won't compete for resources.

3. Recognizing Signs of Nutrient Deficiency

Address the issue promptly if your morning glories in hanging baskets show signs of nutrient deficiency. For example, stunted growth or yellowing leaves. Poor soil quality or inadequate fertilization can cause this.

Consider using a slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for flowering plants. Ensure your morning glories have the nutrients they need to thrive.

Conclusion

By properly growing morning glories in hanging baskets, you can enjoy its vibrant blooms all summer long. With the right care, you will have a beautiful and colorful addition to your outdoor space.