Edible Plants for Hanging Baskets
Herbs:
1. Basil
Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum
Basil, being the number one herb (at least for me 😉), is a delightful choice for a hanging basket. This versatile herb adds a burst of flavor to your dishes. Ensure it gets plenty of sunlight, and give it a regular pruning by harvesting the leaves for bushier growth.
2. Parsley
Botanical Name: Petroselinum crispum
Both flat-leaf and curly parsley do well in hanging baskets. Make sure it gets ample sunlight and follow a consistent watering schedule to promote healthy growth.
3. Mint
Botanical Name: Mentha
Mint is a fantastic choice for hanging baskets. As it’s a vigorous grower, and you can contain it in a small space this way. Don’t forget to introduce yourself to the most fragrant mint varieties here.
4. Creeping Thyme
Botanical Name: Thymus praecox
Creeping thyme is a small perennial herb that covers the ground and is often planted for its ornamental appearance. It will add beauty with its stems spilling down from your hanging basket.
5. Marjoram
Botanical Name: Origanum majorana
Growing marjoram in hanging baskets is a great idea. Its mildly fragrant leaves and delicate flowers not only add charm but also provide a fresh harvest for your cooking.
6. Lavender
Botanical Name: Lavandula
Lavender in hanging baskets infuses your space with a delightful fragrance. Its calming scent and elegant purple flowers make it an attractive addition.
7. Creeping Rosemary
Botanical Name: Rosmarinus officinalis prostratus
Creeping Rosemary, with trailing habit, looks perfect in hanging baskets. For the best growth, provide 5-6 hours of direct sunlight.
8. Cuban Oregano
Botanical Name: Coleus amboinicus
Cuban Oregano leaves smell like carom seeds when crushed; this perennial herb grows best in warm weather and can be an exotic addition to your edible hanging basket garden.
Fruits
9. Cherry Tomatoes
Best Hanging Varieties: Tumbling Tom, Basket Boy Red, Suncherry Premium, Gardener’s Delight, Sakura, and Sun Baby
Cherry tomatoes can be grown in hanging baskets, providing you with a convenient source of fresh, tangy delights for salads and snacking.
10. Strawberries
Best Hanging Varieties: Tristar, Tribute, Mara des Bois, Evie, and Albion
Hanging baskets allow you to grow strawberries, a clever idea for urban gardeners. Go for everbearing or day-neutral varieties instead of June-bearing types.
11. Blueberry
Best Hanging Variety: Midnight Cascade Blueberry
Many people have fond summer memories of sweet and tangy blueberries. You might be surprised to learn that you can grow them in hanging baskets with ease!
Edible Flowers that Can Be Used for Garnishes and in Salads
12. Nasturtium
Botanical Name: Tropaeolum majus
Nasturtium is a beautiful mustard-scented plant with colorful flowers that are full of minerals and vitamins. This easy-to-care-for herb is a great pick for hanging baskets.
13. Calendula
Botanical Name: Calendula officinalis
Calendula in hanging baskets adds a vibrant touch to your garden. These cheerful, edible flowers are not only visually appealing but also perfect for garnishes and herbal teas.
14. Viola (Pansies)
Botanical Name: Viola
These cool-season flowers not only add charm but are also edible, making them ideal for garnishes and salads. Ensure pansies receive adequate sunlight for a stunning display.
15. Marigold
Botanical Name: Tagetes
Growing marigolds in hanging baskets is great to add a colorful display to a small patio and balcony. Ensure well-draining soil and plenty of sun.
Leafy Greens
16. Asian Greens (Pak Choi, Mizuna, Mibuna)
You can grow various Asian greens in a hanging basket as long as you water and feed them right. These leafy veggies can thrive throughout the year, even in winter!
17. Lettuce
Botanical Name: Lactuca sativa
Small lettuce varieties are great for hanging baskets. To prevent bolting in hot weather, position the basket where it gets partial shade during the hottest part of the day.
18. Spinach
Botanical Name: Spinacia oleracea
You can grow regular spinach hanging basket in a cool, shaded spot. Perpetual spinach is an excellent option because it won’t bolt in hot weather and will give you a regular harvest!
19. Swiss Chard
Botanical Name: Beta vulgaris L.
Swiss chard’s colorful stalks and nutritious leaves make it an attractive and edible addition to your hanging garden. Ensure it receives enough sunlight.
Vegetables
20. Cape Gooseberries
Botanical Name: Physalis peruviana
Cape Gooseberries are veggies you can easily plant in hanging baskets. Grow them upside down or like tomatoes, and they’ll spill over the sides of the pot.
21. Eggplant
Botanical Name: Solanum melongena
If you want to grow eggplants in your hanging garden, go for smaller varieties like “Patio Baby” – they require less space and can even grow upside down. These grow only 2-3 inches in size.
22. Peas
Botanical Name: Pisum sativum
Growing peas in hanging baskets is a smart choice because it saves space and keeps them away from ground pests. It’s a tasty green for a small space like a balcony!
23. Zucchini
Botanical Name: Cucurbita pepo
You can grow a single zucchini plant in a large hanging basket. These plants are heavy feeders, so make sure you fertilize them timely for the best growth.
24. Bush Beans
Botanical Name: Phaseolus coccineus
Compact bush bean varieties like “Mascotte” are perfect for baskets. These beans produce tender pods and thrive in full sunlight. Regular harvesting encourages more growth.
25. Cucumbers
Botanical Name: Cucumis sativus
Cucumber can be a great addition to hanging baskets; go with varieties like Patio Pickle and Summer Dance. Dwarf bush varieties grow well and stay compact.
