Hanging baskets are a great way to liven up decks, patios, walkways and other bare areas around the yard and house. They also provide a way for growing fresh tomatoes in small spaces, such as apartment complexes or condominiums, where even a small garden is unpractical.
Unlike large tomato varieties that require staking, even when they are grown in containers, cherry and grape tomato varieties grow well in hanging baskets, allowing their vines to trail over the edges. These lightweight tomatoes do not require stalking and require little training or care.
Planting Tomatoes in Hanging Baskets
Choose a hanging planter that is large enough to accommodate the tomatoes and has excellent drainage. Ideally, baskets should a minimum of 9 to 12 inches to provide enough room for the plants to expand. Hanging baskets come in a variety of styles and materials:
- Wire Baskets ~ wire basket planters provide excellent drainage. They are commonly used for decorative hangers and come in a variety of styles. Line the basket with coconut fiber or moss before planting the tomatoes.
- Plastic Baskets ~ plastic hangers are often the least expensive type of basket. Plastic planters provide the least amount of drainage; however, you can drill additional holes in the bottom and sides to provide extra drainage.
- Wicker Baskets ~ Wicker is attractive and provides good drainage, especially if you add a coconut fiber or moss liner. However, these are not the most economical hangers. Over time, weather, soil and water erode the wicker. You can prolong the life of wicker baskets by emptying and drying them between planting seasons.
- Homemade Baskets ~ homemade hanging baskets provide an opportunity to involve children in the growing the process and teach them about recycling. You can use any number of materials and decorate plastic water bottles or old containers, turning them into hanging baskets. (See Homemade Hanging Baskets with Recycled Materials for more information.)
Start the tomato plants indoors or use purchased transplants. Fill the hanging basket with a well-draining, high-quality potting soil. Plant the tomato plants in the hanging baskets when they are well established and sturdy.
Caring for Hanging Tomatoes
Hang the baskets outdoors around the house, off fence posts, on decks or around the yard on wrought iron poles. Choose a location with full sun where they will be undisturbed by children, pets and high winds.
Water the soil often. Unlike garden-grown tomatoes, well-draining baskets are difficult to over-water. Where temperatures are high, water the plants daily and allow the extra water to run through. Pick the tomatoes as they ripen to encourage a new growth.
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Malysa Stratton Louk - Malysa Stratton Louk is a freelance writer, journalist & photographer in the Pacific Northwest. View her full profile for more ...
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