Container gardening has become a popular trend in recent years, offering a convenient and space - efficient way to enjoy the beauty of plants. Among the various container gardening options, creating a sphere hanging basket is not only a fun project but also a great way to showcase your favorite flowers. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of making a sphere hanging basket in just 20 minutes with easy - to - follow instructions.
Before you start, gather all the necessary materials. You will need a wire sphere frame, sphagnum moss, potting soil, your choice of flowers, and some gardening tools such as scissors and a trowel. The wire sphere frame serves as the structure for your hanging basket, while the sphagnum moss helps retain moisture and provides a base for the plants to grow.
First, prepare the sphagnum moss. Soak it in water for about 10 - 15 minutes until it becomes soft and pliable. This step is crucial as it makes the moss easier to work with and ensures that it can hold the soil and plants properly. Once the moss is ready, start lining the inside of the wire sphere frame with it. Use your hands to press the moss firmly against the wire, making sure to cover the entire interior surface of the frame. This layer of moss will act as a barrier between the soil and the wire, preventing the soil from falling out.
Next, it's time to add the potting soil. Fill the moss - lined wire sphere with high - quality potting soil. You can use a trowel to scoop the soil into the frame, making sure to distribute it evenly. The potting soil should be loose and well - drained to provide a healthy environment for the plants' roots to grow. As you fill the sphere, gently pat the soil down to remove any air pockets.
Now comes the most exciting part - choosing and planting your flowers. Select a variety of flowers that thrive in your local climate and have different colors, shapes, and textures. Some popular choices for hanging baskets include petunias, geraniums, and lobelia. Start by making small holes in the soil around the sphere using your finger or a small tool. Carefully remove the flowers from their nursery pots and place the root balls into the holes. Gently press the soil around the roots to secure the plants in place.
Continue planting the flowers all around the sphere, spacing them evenly for a balanced and aesthetically pleasing look. You can also add some trailing plants to the bottom of the sphere to create a cascading effect. Once all the flowers are planted, give the hanging basket a good watering. Use a watering can with a fine - mist nozzle to avoid disturbing the soil and plants. Make sure the water reaches all parts of the sphere, soaking the soil thoroughly.
After watering, find a suitable location to hang your sphere hanging basket. It should be a place that receives the right amount of sunlight for the types of flowers you've chosen. Most flowering plants need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day, but some may prefer partial shade. Hang the basket using a strong hook or chain, ensuring that it is securely fastened.
Maintaining your sphere hanging basket is relatively easy. Regularly check the soil moisture and water the plants when the top inch of the soil feels dry. You may also need to fertilize the plants every few weeks to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. Deadhead the spent flowers regularly to encourage new blooms and keep the basket looking fresh and vibrant.
Container gardening, especially creating a sphere hanging basket, is a rewarding activity that allows you to express your creativity and bring a touch of nature to your living space. Whether you have a small balcony, a patio, or even an indoor area with sufficient light, a sphere hanging basket can add a pop of color and beauty. So, don't hesitate to try this 20 - minute gardening project and enjoy the sight of your blooming flowers in a unique and eye - catching way.
In addition to the basic steps mentioned above, there are some tips and tricks that can enhance the success of your sphere hanging basket. For example, you can mix slow - release fertilizers into the potting soil before planting. This will provide a steady supply of nutrients to the plants over an extended period, reducing the need for frequent fertilizing. Also, consider using a layer of mulch on top of the soil to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
Another aspect to consider is the arrangement of the flowers. You can create a color - coordinated design by grouping flowers of similar colors together or create a more eclectic look by mixing different colors and varieties. Experiment with different combinations to find the one that suits your personal style and the overall aesthetic of your outdoor or indoor space.
As the seasons change, you may need to adjust the care of your hanging basket. In the hot summer months, you may need to water the plants more frequently to prevent them from drying out. During the colder months, if the flowers are not frost - tolerant, you may need to bring the hanging basket indoors or provide some form of protection. By being attentive to the needs of your plants, you can ensure that your sphere hanging basket remains a beautiful and thriving display throughout the year.
Overall, container gardening in the form of a sphere hanging basket is a wonderful way to engage with nature, even if you have limited space. It combines the joy of gardening with the art of design, allowing you to create a unique and charming focal point. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your materials, and embark on this 20 - minute gardening adventure to transform your space with a stunning sphere hanging basket full of beautiful flowers.
