Hanging plants are a great way to add some greenery to your indoor space without taking up too much floor or table space. Not only do they purify the air and improve the aesthetic of your home, but they can also boost your mood and productivity. In this article, we'll dive into the benefits of hanging plants for indoors and provide you with everything you need to know to get started.
Table of Contents
Choosing the Right Hanging Plant
With so many options available, choosing the right hanging plant can be overwhelming. When selecting a hanging plant, consider the amount of light your space receives. If your room is low-light, opt for plants like Pothos, Snake Plant, or ZZ Plant that thrive in low-light conditions. If your space receives bright, indirect light, consider plants like Boston Fern, English Ivy, or Dracaena. You should also consider the humidity level in your space, as some plants prefer higher humidity than others.
Types of Hanging Planters
There are many types of hanging planters to choose from, each with its own unique style and benefits. Macramé planters are a popular choice, adding a bohemian touch to any room. Wicker planters provide a natural, earthy feel, while ceramic planters offer a sleek, modern look. You can also opt for self-watering planters, which make caring for your plants a breeze. Consider the material, size, and style of your planter when selecting the right one for your space.
Hanging Plant Care 101
Caring for hanging plants is relatively easy, but it does require some attention. Make sure to water your plants when the soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Most hanging plants prefer to be fertilized during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer. Prune your plants regularly to maintain their shape and encourage new growth. Finally, keep an eye out for pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale.
Common Hanging Plant Problems
Even with proper care, hanging plants can encounter problems. One common issue is yellowing leaves, which can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or too much direct sunlight. Another issue is droopy leaves, which can be caused by a lack of humidity or too much heat. If you notice any pests, treat your plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. If your plant is experiencing root bound, consider transplanting it into a larger planter.
DIY Hanging Plant Projects
If you're feeling crafty, consider creating your own hanging plant project. You can upcycle an old planter or create a unique planter using materials like terracotta pots, twine, and moss. You can also create a living wall by attaching small planters to a wooden board or trellis. Get creative and have fun with it!
Hanging Plant Arrangements
Creating a beautiful hanging plant arrangement is all about balance and harmony. Consider grouping plants with similar textures and colors together. You can also create a themed arrangement, like a tropical oasis or a rustic garden. Don't be afraid to experiment and try out different arrangements until you find one that works for you.
Tips for Hanging Plants in Small Spaces
Just because you live in a small space doesn't mean you can't enjoy the benefits of hanging plants. Consider using compact plants like Air Plant, Peperomia, or String of Pearls that don't take up too much space. You can also use vertical space by hanging multiple plants from the ceiling or a wall. Finally, opt for planters with a small footprint, like a window box or a hanging basket.
Hanging plants are a great way to add some greenery to your indoor space, purify the air, and boost your mood. With so many options available, it's easy to find the perfect hanging plant for your space. By following the tips and advice in this article, you'll be well on your way to creating a beautiful and thriving indoor garden. Happy planting!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of having hanging plants indoors?
Hanging plants can bring numerous benefits to your indoor space, including air purification, improved mental health, and aesthetic appeal. They can also help to reduce stress and boost productivity. Plus, they're a great way to add some greenery to your home without taking up too much floor space!
Which plants are best suited for hanging baskets?
There are many plants that thrive in hanging baskets, including ferns, ivy, flowering plants like petunias and fuchsias, and herbs like basil and mint. You can also consider trailing plants like English ivy, Boston ivy, or creeping Jenny. Choose plants that have a trailing or vining habit, and make sure they're suitable for indoor growing conditions.
How do I choose the right hanging basket for my plants?
When selecting a hanging basket, consider the size of the plant, the material of the basket, and the drainage system. Look for baskets with good drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil. You can also choose from a variety of materials, such as wicker, plastic, or metal. Make sure the basket is sturdy enough to hold the weight of the plant and soil.
What kind of soil should I use for my hanging plants?
For hanging plants, it's best to use a well-draining potting mix specifically designed for indoor plants. This type of soil will help prevent waterlogging and ensure that your plants receive the right amount of moisture. You can also add some organic matter like compost or peat moss to improve soil fertility.
How often should I water my hanging plants?
The frequency of watering depends on the type of plant, the size of the basket, and the climate. As a general rule, check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it's time to water. Water your hanging plants when the top inch of soil feels dry, and avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.
What is the ideal temperature for hanging plants?
Most hanging plants prefer daytime temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and nighttime temperatures around 55-65°F (13-18°C). However, some plants like ferns and peace lilies prefer warmer temperatures, while others like succulents and cacti prefer cooler temperatures. Research the specific temperature requirements for your plants to ensure they thrive.
How much light do hanging plants need?
Most hanging plants require bright, indirect light, but some can tolerate low light conditions. If you're placing your hanging plants near a window, make sure to filter the direct sunlight with a sheer curtain to prevent scorching. Some plants like Chinese evergreen and pothos can thrive in low-light conditions, while others like African violets and begonias require more light.
Can I hang my plants in a spot with direct sunlight?
While some plants can tolerate direct sunlight, many hanging plants prefer indirect sunlight to prevent scorching. If you must hang your plants in a spot with direct sunlight, make sure to provide some shade, especially during the peak sun hours. You can use a sheer curtain or a UV-filtering window film to filter the intense sunlight.
How do I fertilize my hanging plants?
Fertilize your hanging plants during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to prevent burning the roots. You can also use a fertilizer specifically formulated for indoor plants. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season (fall and winter) when plant growth slows down.
How often should I prune my hanging plants?
Prune your hanging plants regularly to maintain their shape, promote healthy growth, and encourage blooming. Remove any dead or dying leaves or stems, and trim back long vines to encourage branching. Prune your plants during the growing season, and avoid pruning during the dormant season.
Can I propagate my hanging plants?
Yes, many hanging plants can be propagated through stem cuttings, leaf cuttings, or division. Take 4-6 inch stem cuttings from the tips of the vines, remove lower leaves, and plant them in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm until roots develop. You can also propagate plants like spider plants and begonias through leaf cuttings.
How do I prevent pests from infesting my hanging plants?
Check your plants regularly for signs of pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Isolate infested plants, and treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Keep your plants clean, and avoid overwatering, which can attract pests. You can also use sticky traps or yellow traps to capture flying pests.
What are some common diseases that affect hanging plants?
Common diseases that affect hanging plants include root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. These diseases are often caused by overwatering, poor air circulation, and high humidity. Treat fungal diseases with fungicides, and remove infected leaves or stems to prevent the spread of the disease.
How do I repot my hanging plants?
Repot your hanging plants every 1-2 years to provide fresh soil and a larger pot if necessary. Choose a pot that is only one to two sizes larger than the original pot, and use a well-draining potting mix. Prune the roots gently to encourage new growth, and water well after repotting.
Can I hang my plants outdoors?
Yes, you can hang your plants outdoors in a shaded area, but make sure to acclimate them to outdoor conditions gradually. Start by moving your plants to a shaded outdoor area for a few hours a day, and gradually increase the time. Avoid direct sunlight, strong winds, and extreme temperatures.
How do I protect my hanging plants from frost?
Bring your hanging plants indoors before the first frost, or move them to a frost-free area like a garage or greenhouse. If you can't bring them indoors, cover them with a frost blanket or sheet to protect them from frost damage.
Can I hang my plants in a bathroom?
Yes, hanging plants can thrive in a bathroom, especially those that prefer high humidity like ferns and peace lilies. Just be sure to provide good air circulation, and avoid placing your plants near the shower or bathtub to prevent water splashing.
How do I clean my hanging plants?
Gently dust your hanging plants with a soft-bristled brush or a clean cloth to remove dirt and debris. You can also use a gentle leaf shine or a mixture of water and mild dish soap to clean the leaves. Avoid using harsh chemicals or strong cleaning products that can damage your plants.
Can I hang my plants in a kitchen?
Yes, hanging plants can thrive in a kitchen, especially those that prefer bright, indirect light like herbs and flowering plants. Just be sure to keep your plants away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and cooking fumes that can damage your plants.
How do I deal with hanging plant maintenance?
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your hanging plants healthy and thriving. Check your plants regularly for signs of pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies. Water, fertilize, and prune your plants as needed, and repot them every 1-2 years.
Can I hang my plants in a bedroom?
Yes, hanging plants can be a great addition to a bedroom, especially those that prefer low light conditions like Chinese evergreen and pothos. Just be sure to keep your plants away from direct sunlight, and avoid placing them near air vents or heating sources that can dry out the air.
How do I choose the right hanging plant for my lifestyle?
Consider your lifestyle, the amount of light and care you can provide, and the space you have available when choosing a hanging plant. If you're busy, choose low-maintenance plants like succulents or air plants. If you have a lot of natural light, choose plants that prefer bright conditions like flowering plants or herbs.
Indoor Plant Care A-Z
Adiantum Fragrans
Aechmea Blue Rain
Aechmea Fasciata
Aeschynanthus Marmoratus
Aeschynanthus Radicans Gesneriad
African Mask
African Spear
African Violet
Air Plant
Alocasia Amazonica
Alocasia Araceae
Aloe
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera Barbadensis
Angel Wings Cactus
Anthurium Andraeanum
Anthurium Crystallinum
Arabian Coffee
Areca Palm
Aroid Palm
Arrowhead Ivy
Arum Lily
Asparagus Densiflorus 'Sprengeri'
Asparagus fern
Asparagus Setaceus
Aspidistra Elatior
Asplenium Antiquum
Asplenium Nidus
Athyrium Filix-Femina
Austrailian Ivy Tree
Austrocephalocereus Dybowskii
Austrocylindropuntia subulata
Azalea Plant
Baby Doll Ti
Baby Rose
Baby Tears
Baby Toes
Baby's Tears
Bamboo Palm
Banana Palm
Banana Plant
Banana Tree
Barbados Aloe
Begoniaceae Maculata
Bengal Fig
Benjamin Tree
Benjamin's Fig
Beringin
Bilbo Cactus
Bird Of Paradise
Bird's Nest Fern
Bird's Tongue Flower
Birds Nest Fern
Blue Pothos
Blue Rain Bromeliad
Blue Rain Plant
Blue Sansevieria
Blue Torch Cactus
Bonsai Ficus
Boston Fern
Boston Fern
Boy Flower
Brighamia insignis
Bromeliad
Buddha's Hand
Bunny Cactus
Burrageara Orchid X Oncidium
Burro's Tail
Butterfly Palm
Cabbage on a Stick
Cabeça-branca
Cactus
Caladium Lindenii
Caladium Magnificum
Calathea
Calathea Marantaceae
Calla Lily
Cambria
Cambria Orchid
Canna Leaved Strelitzia
Cape Jasmine
Cape Primrose
Cast Iron Plant
Cathedral Cactus
Cathedral Plant
Cereus Peruvianus
Ceropegia Woodii
Ceropegia Woodii 'Marlies'
Chain of Hearts
Chain of Pearls
Chamaedorea Elegans
Chinese Ape
Chinese Money Plant
Chinese PLant
Chinese Taro
Chlorophytum Comosum
Christmas Cactus
Christmas Kalanchoe
Cladophora
Cladophora Ball
Climbing Asparagus
Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum
Coffea Rubiaceae Arabica
Coffee Bean
Coffee Plant
Common Purslane
Common Yucca
Cordyline Fruticosa
Corn Plant
Crab Cactus
Crane Flower
Crassula Arborescens
Crassula Hobbit
Crassula Ovata
Croton
Crystal Anthurium
Ctenanthe
Ctenanthe Pilosa Golden Mosaic
Curly Locks Cactus
Curtain Fig
Cycas Revoluta
Cylindrical Snake Plant
Date Palm
Day Flower
Delicious Monster
Devil's Ivy
Devil's Tongue
Devils Backbone
Dieffenbachia Araceae
Donkey's Tail
Dracaena
Dracaena Fragrans
Dracaena Fragrans Golden Coast
Dracaena Fragrans Janet Craig
Dracaena Fragrans Steudneri
Dracaena Magenta
Dracaena Marginata
Dracaena Sanderiana
Dragon Plant
Dragon Scale Alocasia
Dragon Tree
Dumb Cane
Dwarf Arrowhead Vine
Dypsis Lutescens Chrysalidocarpus
Easter Cactus
Elephant Bush
Elephant Ear
Elephant Yucca
Emerald Palm
English Ivy
Entangled Hearts
Epiphyllum Anguliger
Epiphyllum guatemalensis
Epipremnum Aureum
Epipremnum Aureum Neon
Epipremnum Pinnatum
Epipremnum Pinnatum Aureum
Eternity Plant
Euphorbia Enopla
Euphorbia Trigona
Euphorbia Trigona Rubra
Eves Pin Cactus
False African Violet
False Shamrock
Ficus Benghalensis 'Audrey'
Ficus Benjamina
Ficus Elastica
Ficus Elastica 'Ruby'
Ficus Ginseng
Ficus Microcarpa
Fiddle Leaf Fig
First Aid Plant
Fishbone Cactus
Five Holes Plant
Flaming Katy
Flaming Sword
Flamingo Flower
Flamingo Lily
Flamingo Plant
Florist Kalanchoe
Flowering Cactus
Freckle Face
Freckle Plant
French Peanut
Friendship Plant
Garden Ivy
Garden Rose
Gardenia Jasminoides
Giant Bird Of Paradise
Golden Cane
Golden Neon Pothos
Golden Pothos
Goldfish Plant
Guiana Chestnut
Guzmania
Guzmania Bromeliaceae
Happy Leaf Pothos
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hawaiian Ti Plant
Haworthia
Haworthia Rafiki
Heart Leaf
Hedera Helix
Hedera Helix Variagata
Hedera Hibernica
Heptapleurum Actinopyllum
Hobbit Jade
Horrida Plant
Horse's Tail
House Plant Cuttings For Propagation
Hoya Carnosa
Hurricane Plant
Hylotelephium Sieboldii
Hypoestes Phyllostachya
Inch Plant
Irish Ivy
Jade Plant
Jade Plant
Java Fig
Java Tree
Java Willow
Jelly Bean Plant
Jungle Boogie
Jungle Bush
Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana
Kalanchoe Delagoensis x Daigremontiana
Kleinia stapeliiformis
Korean Rock Fern
Lace Fern
Laceleaf
Lady Fern
Lake Ball
Lamb's Tail
Lemon Geranium
Leopard Lily
Lipstick Plant
Little Hogweed
Love Plant
Lucky Bamboo
Madagascar Jasmine
Maidenhair Fern
Malabar Chestnut
Malayan Banyan
Maranta Kerchoveana
Maranta Leuconeura
Maranta Marisela
Mason Congo Sansevieria
Measles Plant
Medicinal Aloe
Medicine Plant
Mexican Breadfruit
Milk Barrel Cactus
Miltonia Orchid
Ming Aralia
Mini Philo
Mini Swiss Cheese Vine
Missionary Plant
Mistletoe Cactus
Money Plant
Money Tree
Monkey Jars
Monstera
Monstera Adansonii
Monstera Deliciosa
Monstera Minima
Moss Ball
Moss Rose
Moth Orchid
Mother In Law's Tongue
Mother Of Thousands
Musa
Musa Basjoo Tropicana
N'Joy Pothos
Nemantanthus Gregarius
Nematanthus gregarious
Neon Devil's Ivy
Neon Pothos
Nepenthes Alata
Nephrolepis Exaltata
Never Never Plant
Night Blooming Cactus
Octopus Tree
Odontoglossum Orchid
Oilcloth Flower
Old Man Cactus
Oncidium Orchid
Opuntia Microdaisy Albata
Orchidaceae Phalaenopsis
Oxalis Triangularis
Pachira Aquatica
Pancake Plant
Pansy Orchid
Parasol Plant
Parlor Palm
Parlour Palm
Pass-it-along Plant
Passiflora Caerulea
Passionflower
Patio Rose
Peace Lily
Peace Lily
Peacock Plant
Pearl and Star Plant
Pelargonium Zonal
Peperomia Deppeana × Quadrifolia | Peperomia Tetraphylla
Peperomia Polybotrya
Peperomia Prostrata
Peruvian Apple Cactus
Philodendron
Philodendron 'Monkey Mask'
Philodendron Hederaceum
Philodendron Minima
Philodendron Scandens
Phoenix Canariensis
Pickle Cactus
Pickle Plant
Pilea Depressa
Pilea Mollis
Pilea Peperomoides
Pilocereus Azureus
Pincushion Euphorbia
Pink Jelly Beans
Pink Pork and Beans
Pink Splash
Pink Violet
Pitcher Plant
Polka Dot Begonia
Polka Dot Plant
Polyscias Fruticosa
Polystichum Tsussimense
Portulaca Umbraticolata
Portulacaria Afra Mediopicta
Pot Belly Fig
Pothos
Prayer Plant
Provision Tree
Purple Rain Plant
Purple Shamrock
Purple Wood Sorrel
Rabbit Ears Cactus
Rabbit's Foot
Rabbit's Tracks
Radiator Plant
Raindrop Money Plant
Raindrop Pilea
Rattlesnake Plant
Red Rhipsalis Cactus
Red Rubber Plant
Rhapidophora Tetrasperma
Rhipsalis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Heteroclada
Rhipsalis Horrida
Rhipsalis Occidentalis
Rhododendron Inga
Ric Rac Orchid Cactus
Ric-Rac Cactus
Rosa
Rosary Plant
Rosary Vine
Rough Fern
Rubber Plant
Saba Nut
Sago Palm
Saint Barbara's Sword
Saint Paulia
Saint Paulia
Sansevieria Ehrenbergii
Sansevieria Trifascia
Sansevieria Trifasciata
Sarracenia
Satin Pothos
Savannah Geranium
Schefflera Arboricola
Schlumbergera Bridgesii
Scindapsus Pictum Argyraeus
Scindapsus Pictus
Sedum Morganianum
Sedum Rubrotinctum Variegata
Senecio
Senecio Herrianus
Senecio Rowleyanus
Senecio Stapeliiformis
Shark Fin Plant
Shark's Tooth Philodendron
Silver Dollar Plant
Silver Jade Plant
Silver Pothos
Silver Vase
Small-Leaved Fig
Small-Leaved Rubber Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Tongue
Spanish Moss
Spathiphyllum
Spathiphyllum wallisii
Spear Sansevieria
Spider Plant
Spider Plant
Spiderwort
Spineless Yucca
Split-leaf Philodendron
Spotted Begonia
Star Plant
Stephanotis Floribunda
Stick Yucca
Stranging Fig
Strelitzia Alba
Strelitzia Nicolai
Strelitzia Reginae
Streptocarpus Saxorum
String of Beads
String of Hearts
String of Pearls
String of Tears
String of Turtles
Strings
Surprise Miltoniopsis
Sweetheart Plant
Sweetheart Plant Brazil
Swiss Cheese Plant
Swiss Cheese Vine
Sword Fern
Syngonium Erythrophyllum
Syngonium Nephphytis
Tailflower
Tears Pilea
Thanksgiving Cactus
Ti Leaf
Tiger Tooth Philodendron
Tillandsia
Tillandsia Ionantha
Tradescantia Albiflora
Tradescantia Commelinaceae Multiflora
Trailing Jade
Tropical Laurel
Tropicana Palm
Trout Begonia
True Aloe
Trumpet Lily
Trumpet Pitcher Plant
Trumpet Plant
Turtle Strings
UFO Plant
Umbrella Tree
Urn Plant
Variegated Chain of Hearts
Variegated Entangled Hearts
Variegated Laurel
Variegated Rosary Plant
Variegated Rosary Vine
Variegated Rubber Plant
Variegated String of Hearts
Vriesea splendens
Vuylstekeara Orchid
Wandering Dude
Wandering Jew
Wax Plant
Weeping Fig
Weeping Laurel
Whale Fin Plant
White Bird Of Paradise
White Crane Flower
White Flowered Wild Banana
Wild Banana
Wild Cape Banana
Yellow Palm
Yucca Elephantipes
Zamioculcas Zamiifolia
Zantedeschia
Zanzibar Gem
Zebra Basket Vine
Zebra Cactus
Zebra Lipstick Plant
Zebra Plant
Zebrina Pendula
Zigzag Cactus
Zuzu Plant
ZZ Plant
ZZ Plant
Harley Jennings
Harley Jennings is a renowned indoor plant expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience working with some of the UK's top botany and garden centers. Harley's passion for indoor plants blossomed early in his career, leading him to become a trusted authority in the field. He has spent years nurturing plants, researching the best care practices, and sharing his extensive knowledge with fellow plant enthusiasts.
Harley is the author of the comprehensive guide "The Complete Guide to Indoor Plant Care," where he combines his wealth of experience with a deep love for greenery. This guide provides readers with everything they need to know about indoor plants, from selection and placement to watering, feeding, and troubleshooting common issues.
In addition to his writing, Harley plays a pivotal role in the development of the Botanic Beam app, a revolutionary tool that offers plant lovers a wealth of information in one convenient place. The app simplifies plant care, providing tailored advice, reminders, and expert tips to help users create thriving indoor gardens.
Outside of his professional life, Harley enjoys urban beekeeping, finding a unique connection between nurturing plants and supporting local ecosystems. His relatable, down-to-earth approach makes him a favorite among both novice and experienced indoor gardeners. Whether through his guide or the Botanic Beam app, Harley Jennings continues to inspire and educate, helping people transform their homes into green sanctuaries.