Growing Lily of the Valley in Hanging Baskets for Charming Spring Displays

Lily of the valley is a classic spring-blooming perennial loved for its graceful, arching foliage and abundant, sweetly fragrant white bell-shaped flowers. While traditionally grown in flower beds and planters, did you know you can also cultivate this charming plant in hanging baskets?

Suspending pots of lily of the valley enables you to appreciate their beauty at eye level and take in their lovely scent. Hanging basket displays also spotlight the flowers and cascading foliage while containing spread Elevating the planters can help deter slugs and snails too

If cared for properly, lily of the valley thrives beautifully in suspended pot displays. The key is using the right strategies when selecting, planting, and caring for them in hanging containers.

Benefits of Growing Lily of the Valley in Hanging Baskets

There are several advantages to displaying lily of the valley in hanging planters

• Hanging baskets spotlight the dainty blooms and lacy foliage at the perfect height for close-up admiration.

• Allows placement in areas like patios, porches, or near entryways to enjoy their sweet perfume.

• Cascading leaves and flower sprays create a beautiful, wispy overflowing effect.

• Containing them in a hanging pot prevents aggressive spread from taking over garden beds.

• Elevating planters deters slugs and snails compared to ground planting.

• Flexible for moving containers to optimize sunlight exposure as needed.

• Enables convenient access for planting, pruning, deadheading spent blooms, etc.

Choosing the Best Hanging Baskets for Lily of the Valley

Select your hanging pot and components carefully to keep lily of the valley thriving:

• Choose a basket at least 12-14” wide and 10-12” deep to provide ample room for growth.

• Ensure the planter has sufficient drainage holes, or add extra holes if needed.

• Include a drip tray to catch overflow water and protect surfaces below from stains.

• Opt for baskets with sturdy hooks, chains, or eyelets for secure hanging.

• Use a quality potting mix, not dense garden soil, which is too heavy.

• Incorporate peat moss or compost for moisture retention and nutrition.

• Add a thin layer of gravel at the bottom for enhanced drainage.

Caring for Lily of the Valley Grown in Hanging Baskets

Caring for lily of the valley planted in hanging containers is relatively easy. Just be attentive to their needs:

• Water 1-2 times daily to keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.

• Apply diluted liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during spring and summer.

• Prune off spent blooms promptly to encourage reblooming.

• Remove yellowing leaves and trim trailing stems as needed for shaping.

• Check soil moisture daily and water early to avoid foliar diseases.

• Move basket to a shadier spot if leaves brown or curl from excessive sun.

• Bring hanging baskets indoors before first frost if not winter hardy in your zone.

Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Lily of the Valley in Hanging Baskets

Follow these tips for successfully growing lily of the valley in suspended pot displays:

Choose Healthy Plants

Select young but established lily of the valley plants with plenty of roots and some leafy growth. Avoid tiny divisions or sparse plants.

Prepare the Hanging Basket

Rinse a 12-14” hanging basket and line bottom with gravel. Fill 3⁄4 with quality potting mix amended with compost or peat.

Plant in the Container

Dig holes large enough to fit root mass. Place crowns at soil level and backfill with mix. Gently tap to settle. Water thoroughly.

Hang in an Ideal Spot

Place baskets in morning sun only or bright indirect light. Near an entryway or patio is perfect to enjoy the fragrance.

Provide Ongoing Care

Check soil daily, water when dry on top. Fertilize monthly. Remove spent blooms promptly. Trim to shape as desired.

Tips for Maximizing Enjoyment of Lily of the Valley Hanging Baskets

• Plant at least 3-5 sizable divisions in each basket for fullness. Space 4-5” apart.

• Hang in locations protected from hot afternoon sun which can scorch leaves.

• Use potting mix that retains moisture but also drains well. Incorporate peat or compost.

• Water early in the day to keep soil consistently moist. Lily of the valley dislike drying out.

• Apply diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during active growth to nourish plants.

• Bring hanging baskets indoors before frost if lily of the valley is not hardy in your gardening zone.

• Divide rootbound plants every 3-4 years in fall to rejuvenate and increase blooms.

Common Questions About Growing Lily of the Valley in Hanging Baskets

How many plants do you need per hanging basket?

Start with at least 3-5 good sized divisions in a 12” basket. Space them 4-5” apart to allow for growth.

Should they be grown in full sun or shade?

Lily of the valley does best with morning sun only or dappled shade. Too much hot afternoon sun can burn leaves.

What is the best soil mix and fertilizer?

Use a quality potting mix that retains moisture but also drains freely. Incorporate peat moss or compost for nutrients. Fertilize monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength during growth.

How often do they need to be watered?

Check soil daily and water when the top inch becomes dry. Lily of the valley prefers consistently moist soil. Prompt drainage prevents root rot.

How cold hardy are they in hanging baskets?

Most tolerate cold down to zone 3 or 4 but hanging pots are more prone to freeze damage. Move containers indoors before frost if concerned.

With the right care and conditions, lily of the valley thrives beautifully in hanging pot displays. The cascading foliage and prolific blooms create a romantic look, while the heavenly fragrance can be enjoyed up close.

Incorporate hanging baskets overflowing with lily of the valley into your garden or outdoor living space this spring for a charming decorative accent. The sweetly scented flowers and graceful greenery are sure to delight.