Lining Materials for Hanging Planters

Moss Lining

• Sphagnum moss and peat moss are common planting materials. They are often used to line hanging planters because they hold water well and allow plant roots to breathe. Moss lining is best for wire hanging planters or hanging planters with drainage holes. Soak the moss in water to moisten it. Then pack a 2-inch layer of moss all around the interior of the hanging basket. Check the layer to make sure there are no holes or thin spots through which soil and water can escape. Finally, fill the planter with potting soil and plant it.

Plastic Lining

• Plastic sheeting offers an insulated, water impermeable lining for hanging baskets. Plastic is ideal for enclosed patios and other areas where dripping water after watering is not ideal. But because plastic liners do not allow any water to escape, they are best for plants that like moist or water-logged conditions. Plants that need well-drained soil will not to well in plastic lined baskets. To line the basket, create a double layer of 1 to 1 1/2 ml non-phytotoxic plastic sheeting. Tuck the edges of the plastic back into the basket to avoid unsightly overhang. Finally, fill the planter with potting soil and plant it.

Line a Hanging Planter with Another Pot

• Many decorative hanging planters do not have drainage holes. This is not good for most plants. The standing water inside the planter will eventually rot your plant's roots. To avoid this problem, plant your plant in a small pot with drainage holes. Then line the bottom of the hanging planter with medium-sized pebbles to one-quarter the depth of the container. Place the pot on top of the pebbles. Then fill in the space between the pot and the hanging planter with sphagnum peat moss to secure it.

Pre-formed Liners

• Many home and garden centers carry pre-formed hanging planter liners. These liners are often made of coir peat, coco peat, or sphagnum peat and are the easiest liners to use. Choose an appropriately-sized liner for your hanging planter's size. Moisten the pre-formed liner in a container of water to allow it to expand to its full size. Then push the pre-formed liner down into the hanging planter. Push it against the interior of the hanging planter to help form it against the edges of the hanging planter. Once its in place, fill the planter with soil and plant your plant.