Turn a Basket into a Fall Planter (Without Losing Soil!)
Baskets make gorgeous fall plantersโthey add rustic charm and showcase mums, pansies, kale, and even trailing ivy. The problem? They arenโt exactly built to hold soil and water. Without a little prep, youโll have a mess on your deck or patio. But with a few clever tricks, you can transform almost any basket into a sturdy, stylish container that lasts the whole season. ๐๐ญ๐๐ฉ ๐: ๐๐ก๐จ๐จ๐ฌ๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐ข๐ ๐ก๐ญ ๐๐๐ฌ๐ค๐๐ญ * Look for sturdy woven baskets or market baskets with strong handles. * Avoid flimsy or very shallow baskets, since theyโll collapse under damp soil. ๐๐ญ๐๐ฉ ๐: ๐๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ญ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐๐ฎ๐๐๐๐ฌ๐ฌ The secret to preventing soil leaks is lining. Here are a few options: * Coconut Coir Liner โ breathable and holds moisture. * Landscape Fabric โ easy to cut and allows drainage. * Plastic with Drainage Holes โ a plastic bag or sheet cut to fit, with holes punched in the bottom. ๐๐ญ๐๐ฉ ๐: ๐๐๐ ๐๐ซ๐๐ข๐ง๐๐ ๐ * Place a layer of pebbles, broken pottery, or pinecones in the bottom. * This prevents soggy soil and helps roots stay healthy. ๐๐ญ๐๐ฉ ๐: ๐
๐ข๐ฅ๐ฅ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ง๐ญ * Add high-quality potting mix, filling about two-thirds of the basket. * Tuck in your favorite fall flowers or foliageโmums, asters, ornamental cabbage, and trailing vines are perfect. * Firm the soil gently around roots and water well. ๐๐ญ๐๐ฉ ๐: ๐๐ญ๐ฒ๐ฅ๐ & ๐๐ข๐ฌ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐๐ฒ๐ญ * Position your basket planter on your porch, steps, or patio table. * Pair with pumpkins, gourds, or lanterns for that cozy autumn vibe. โ
Bonus Tip: If your basket isnโt weatherproof, consider slipping a plastic nursery pot (already planted) inside. This protects the basket and makes cleanup easier at the seasonโs end.