Close on a hanging basket of red petunias and pink begonias against a brick house wall

Gardener's SecretsUpdated 23 October 2026

Hanging baskets that last the whole summer

A basket that looks perfect in June and tired by August is usually a feeding problem, not a plant problem. Here's what keeps ours going.

Two hanging baskets of petunias, busy lizzies and trailing creeping Jenny on brackets either side of a front door — Petunias, busy lizzies and creeping Jenny by a front door.

Part 1

Why baskets fade

A hanging basket is a small volume of compost supporting a lot of growth, in full sun, for months. It runs out of feed long before it runs out of growing season. That's the main reason baskets fade by August.

A full hanging basket of busy lizzies, begonias and trailing creeping Jenny on a timber pergola post, with a shed and garden seating behind — Busy lizzies and begonias, still full of flower.

Part 2

Feeding and watering

We feed ours weekly through the season, not just at planting, and water little and often rather than soaking once every few days. In hot spells, a basket in full sun can need watering daily.

Part 3

Deadheading

Deadheading spent flowers keeps the plant putting energy into new growth instead of seed. It takes five minutes and adds weeks to how long a basket looks good.

For plants to fill a bed or border as well, see perennials and bedding.

Ready to choose one?

See what's planted up and ready to hang this season.

Hanging baskets & seasonal colour

Ask us at the nursery

196 Manchester Road, Rixton. Bring your questions about baskets, feeding or anything else in the garden.

Winter hours, until April · Mon to Sat, 9:00am – 4:30pmSundays closed

Plan your visit Call 01925 821002