Yes, you really can replant hanging baskets and worn out potted plants for a gorgeous second life this summer.
And there is a much easier and less expensive way than simply placing into a larger container!
By mid-summer, the once beautiful and overflowing hanging baskets purchased in the spring are beginning to fade.
The hundreds of blooms that use to cover the entire plant are now few and far between. And, the few blooms that do appear are anything but bright and cheery.
Even the dark green foliage, stems and shoots are beginning to turn pale, light and yellow.
Unfortunately, it is a fate all too common for most container and hanging basket plants as the summer heat sets in.
And in most cases, it’s not from a lack of water or attention.
Why Baskets And Containers Fail In Mid-Summer
For starters, by the time you purchase plants in the early spring, they have already spent an incredibly long time in their respective containers.
And we are talking months, not just weeks!
In order to get container plants to bloom in the early spring, growers start plants months in advance in greenhouses. Sometimes even as early as December or January.
And although they are healthy, thriving, and blooming when you first pick them up, their roots also have already started to run out of space.
And when that happens, it spells big trouble for the long-term health of your plants.
Signs of Early Trouble – And Why You Need To Replant Hanging Baskets & Containers
The first sign of trouble is the pass-through watering phase.
Meaning, as soon as you water, it all goes right through and out the bottom of the plant in seconds.
It is a tell tale sign that a plant is root bound. And at this point, the plants are no longer able to absorb water or nutrients.
No matter how much or how often you provide them.
In addition, the little soil that is left in the container is now completely void of any nutrients, having long-ago given them up to the plant.
But even though your plants might be suffering, weak and turning pale – it’s certainly no reason to throw them out!
In fact, there is a simple and easy way to give them a huge new life, and bring massive color to your landscape!
How To Replant Hanging Baskets & Potted Plants Into The Landscape For A Second Life
Giving new life to a tired old plant boils down to two simple things. Giving it more space, and fresh, new soil.
Although you could try to find a larger pot or container to replant them in, it can be a lot of work, and quite expensive.
And unfortunately, they usually outgrow that space quickly as well.
So why not pluck them from their crowded space, and replant your hanging baskets and containers directly into your flowerbeds?
It’s quick, easy, and adds a huge burst of color and texture to your landscape in seconds!
How To Replant Hanging Baskets Directly In The Landscape
Begin by removing the potted plant from it’s original container.
Next, break apart the root ball gently, starting from the bottom.
You can usually use your hands for this task, but for some plants, a knife or Hori-hori tool might be needed to cut tight roots free.
When you replant hanging baskets, this step is vital in allowing roots and shoots to spread out into their new surroundings.
Next, dig a hole in the landscape twice the size of the root ball. Add in equal parts of compost and soil back into the hole, setting the base of the plant even with the soil line.
Be sure to water the root’s deeply when re-planting, and cover with mulch to help hold moisture in.
When first re-planting, it is a great time to feed the plant with a little liquid fertilizer to give it an initial boost. (See : The Best Way To Fertilize Hanging Baskets)
You will be amazed at just how quickly the tired plants will come back to life, adding big color to your landscape!
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