Plantshed Blog

Hang in There! Our Top Picks for Hanging Plants

Hang in There! Our Top Picks for Hanging Plants

Author: C. W.

A little serenity, a touch of the great outdoors, and plenty of abundant greenery? Yes, please! Those are just a few reasons hanging plants are so great — and they also save room and utilize the highly underused vertical space in the home. If you’ve always wanted to add plants to your household but couldn’t find a simple way to implement them, you can easily do so — and make quite an impact — by adding one of these amazing hanging plants.


Hanging Green English Ivy

The beauty of the English Ivy is evident at a glance. With its plethora of triangular, almost heart-shaped leaves, it beckons you with its beauty. Vining plants are typically known for their ability to grow at a speedy rate and produce thick greenery, and this hanging plant is no different.


The first step is to hang the basket in optimal lighting. The English ivy performs best in bright light from an indirect source. Avoid spaces that are situated too close to vents or doors, as a blast of cool air could threaten their integrity. Avoid direct light, which can cause burns and premature failure. The ideal space is generally shaded but features daily light exposure.


When you feel the soil start to dry out, it’s time to water — but not too much or too little. Water when the first inch of soil feels dry, but avoid oversaturating, as that could cause leaves to dry out and lose their color. You should also fertilize this hanging plant at least once every couple of months. Take the time to detach any dead leaves to prevent decay.


Finally, help your English ivy thrive in cooler temperatures, so something under 70° Fahrenheit is appropriate.



Hanging Staghorn Fern

A hanging staghorn fern is the ultimate conversation piece. It’s eye-catching thanks to its wide, relaxed fronds that seem to sway in the air. It’s a tropical beauty that adds a statement to any area of the home, provided that area has enough bright, indirect lighting. Aim for up to seven hours a day.


Another key to the staghorn fern’s growth is humidity. Hanging it in the bathroom or kitchen is one way to achieve that. To water, submerge the entire plant in water for at least a minute until the roots are completely wet. Let it drip dry, then hang it back up. You can do this at least weekly when it’s warm and arid outside, and every couple of weeks when it cools down.


Watch for signs of damage, like darkening fronds that begin to look black or brown. This is usually an indication that the plant is too moist; use that as your guide to determine how frequently to water it. If the fronds start to wilt, however, that’s a sign that there’s not enough moisture.



Hanging Hoya

What’s more appealing to a busy homeowner than a plant that requires very little maintenance? The hanging hoya is an apt choice for anyone who doesn’t have too much time on their hands but wants to add a touch of greenery to their home. The hoya is a flexible choice because it easily adapts to nearly any environment.


Partial sunlight is generally acceptable, although a hint of direct light is also preferable. You don’t have to worry about dry air; low humidity levels will not cause damage to this tolerant plant. But you do need to water it when it dries out, and to add at least a quarter of a teaspoon of fertilizer at least monthly for each gallon of water you apply.


Problems are rare, but oversaturated soil can cause fungal diseases that speed up decay rates. This wax plant is also vulnerable to mealy bugs, or minuscule white insects. Direct water at the bugs to eliminate the pests, but follow with something natural, such as neem oil spray, to prevent further infestations.



Hanging Spider Plant

If you’re all about low-maintenance living, the hanging spider plant is for you. True to its name, it features miniature plants, known as “pups,” that resemble little spiders. This plant prefers moderate lighting, but from indirect exposure. Too much heat and exposure to sunlight can cause the leaves to burn.


Check the soil regularly to make sure that it’s moist and promote proper growth. Dry soil will weaken the plant’s integrity, so watering at least once a week is a good idea — just make sure the substance isn’t oversaturated. After about a year, you can transition to occasional watering instead.


When pups form, you can detach them and plant them to create an entirely new plant! Make sure they’re at least two inches wide before removal. If you notice that the leaves appear brown, simply snip them off to prevent more extensive damage. With proper care, this traditional choice will add classic appeal to your home.