Growing Luscious Asparagus Ferns in Hanging Baskets

Asparagus ferns are known for their lush flowing foliage that cascades gracefully in hanging baskets. With the right care these plants can transform any outdoor space into a tropical paradise. In this article, we’ll explore how to grow vibrant asparagus ferns in hanging planters to create a gorgeous, lush display.

Asparagus ferns, also known by their scientific name asparagus aethiopicus or asparagus densiflorus, are not actually ferns at all. They belong to the asparagus family, along with edible asparagus. With their fine, needle-like leaves and arching stems, they resemble true ferns but are actually more closely related to lilies.

Native to South Africa asparagus ferns thrive in warm, humid environments. They grow as perennials in USDA hardiness zones 9-11 but are more commonly grown as annuals or houseplants in colder climates. With proper care these beauties can grow up to 3 feet long indoors.

Benefits of Growing Asparagus Ferns in Hanging Baskets

Asparagus ferns are ideal for growing in hanging baskets for several reasons:

• Their long, trailing stems look spectacular cascading over the edges of a hanging planter. The flowing foliage and arching stems create a beautiful tear-drop effect.

• Hanging in baskets enables the long stems to gracefully drape down. On the ground, the stems would just spread out horizontally along the soil.

• Elevated in a hanging basket, the fern receives better air circulation. Improved airflow prevents fungal diseases.

• Hanging planters provide excellent drainage for these moisture-loving plants. Stagnant water in ground soil could cause root rot.

• Planting in a lightweight hanging basket makes it easy to move the fern into optimal lighting conditions.

Choosing the Right Hanging Basket

When selecting a hanging basket for an asparagus fern, consider the following factors:

• Size – Choose at least a 12-inch wide basket, up to 20 inches for a showstopping mature plant. This gives the stems room to arch over the edges.

• Depth – Aim for at least 6 to 8 inches deep to provide enough soil and moisture retention. Asparagus ferns have extensive root systems.

• Drainage – Excellent drainage is crucial, so look for baskets with multiple drainage holes. Line baskets with sphagnum moss or coco coir liners to retain moisture while still permitting drainage.

• Lightweight – Opt for lightweight plastic, fiberglass, or moss-lined wire baskets that are easy to move around to adjust sunlight exposure.

• Durability – Make sure any metal hanging hardware is rust-resistant and built to handle repeated outdoor use.

Best Soil for Asparagus Ferns

When planting asparagus ferns in hanging baskets, use a lightweight, porous potting mix that drains well and retains some moisture. The ideal soil parameters are:

• Aeration – Look for soil mixes containing perlite, vermiculite, coco coir or bark to maintain air pockets for healthy roots.

• Nutrients – Asparagus ferns grow best in soil with a balanced fertilizer to provide key nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Time-release fertilizer pellets work well.

• Acidity -Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 to 6.5, slightly acidic conditions preferred by asparagus ferns.

• Moisture – The soil should dry out slightly between waterings but not get bone dry. Add water-retaining amendments like peat moss or compost.

A commercial potting mix blended for ferns and orchids contains these ideal properties for asparagus ferns. When transplanting into the hanging basket, you may wish to amend with extra perlite or orchid bark to enhance drainage.

How to Plant an Asparagus Fern in a Hanging Basket

1. Select a young, healthy asparagus fern in a 6 to 10 inch nursery pot with an established root system but room for growth.

2. Choose an appropriate hanging basket 2 to 4 inches larger in diameter than the nursery pot.

3. Fill the clean basket one-third full with moistened, high quality potting soil. Mix in time-release fertilizer as recommended on packaging.

4. Carefully remove the asparagus fern from its nursery pot. Gently loosen any root circles.

5. Place the asparagus fern in the center of the prepared basket. The crown where stems emerge should sit just above the soil surface.

6. Fill the remaining space around the root ball with more moistened soil, pressing gently to remove air pockets. Leave 1 inch below basket rim.

7. Water thoroughly until excess drains from bottom to settle soil. Let excess drainage drip out before hanging.

ideal Growing Conditions for Lush Growth

To maintain lush growth and cascading stems, provide the following growing conditions:

• Light – Bright, indirect light is ideal. Some direct morning sun is beneficial but avoid hot afternoon sun.

• Temperature – Daytime temps between 70-80°F are optimal. Cooler at night. Bring indoors if lower than 50°F.

• Humidity – Mist leaves frequently and grow near other plants to maintain 40-50% humidity.

• Air circulation – Good airflow prevents diseases. Gently turn the basket occasionally.

• Water – Water thoroughly whenever top inch of soil dries out. Allow to drain fully after watering to prevent soggy soil.

• Fertilizer – Feed monthly during growth season with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Prune off any dead, damaged, or unsightly stems to maintain an attractive appearance.

• To control size, cut back long whips and trim stems around edge of basket. New growth will fill back in rapidly.

• Twine excessively long stems back into basket to keep plant compact.

• Watch for pests like spider mites, mealybugs and scale. Wipe away with cotton swab dipped in alcohol.

• To overwinter indoors, cut back to 6 inches and move to bright, 50-60°F location. Limit watering.

Enjoy the Tropical Vibes!

With the right basket, soil, and care as outlined above your asparagus fern will thrive beautifully in a hanging planter. The gracefully draping foliage and tropical look is sure to elevate your porch, patio or indoor space. Relax and enjoy the lush ambience created by these magical ferns!