Antonis DeligiorgisWhen it comes to decorating your living space, hanging baskets filled with houseplants can completely transform the atmosphere. They don’t just bring greenery into your home — they create a sense of movement, life, and elegance. In this guide, we’ll walk through six of the best houseplants for hanging baskets, their care tips, and how to style them to maximize both beauty and health benefits.
Why Hanging Baskets Are Perfect for Houseplants
Hanging baskets are a creative way to showcase plants while saving valuable floor space. If you live in a small apartment, or simply want to elevate your indoor décor, these baskets are the answer.
Benefits of Hanging Houseplants
Space-saving décor
No more cluttered shelves or crowded plant corners. Hanging baskets give your greenery a stage without taking up floor or table space.
Better air circulation
Plants hanging off the ground often get more air movement, which helps prevent mold and pests.
Stunning indoor décor element
Hanging plants create vertical layers in your home. This not only looks stylish but also makes your interior design feel complete and inviting. For more inspiration, check out indoor décor ideas.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing Hanging Houseplants
Not every plant is suitable for a hanging basket. Before bringing one home, consider the following:
Lighting requirements
Some hanging plants thrive in bright indirect light, while others do better in shade. Position your basket according to your plant’s needs.
Watering needs
Since water drains more quickly in baskets, you’ll want to choose plants that can handle slightly drier soil, or be prepared for more frequent watering.
Growth patterns and trailing habits
Hanging baskets look best with trailing or cascading plants that spill beautifully over the sides.
Pet and child safety
Some houseplants can be toxic to cats, dogs, or small children. Always check safety before choosing. For safe picks, explore pet-safe plants.
6 Houseplants Ideal for Hanging Baskets
Ready to meet the stars of your indoor jungle? Let’s dive into six houseplants that are practically made for hanging baskets.
1. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
This classic trailing plant adds a touch of elegance to any basket. With its cascading vines and lush green leaves, English Ivy is a timeless favorite.
Care requirements
- Light: Bright, indirect light.
- Water: Keep soil slightly moist but not soggy.
- Maintenance: Occasional pruning keeps vines tidy.
Best placement in your home
English Ivy looks stunning in a living room corner or near windows. It’s also well-loved as a bedroom plant since it improves air quality.
2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Known for its arching leaves and little “spiderettes,” the Spider Plant is one of the most family-friendly houseplants around.
Care requirements
- Light: Bright to moderate indirect light.
- Water: Water weekly; allow soil to dry between waterings.
- Maintenance: Propagate easily by planting spiderettes.
Why it’s family-friendly
It’s a top air-purifying plant, safe for kids and pets, making it perfect for busy parents who want greenery without worry.
3. String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
This succulent looks like a cascade of green beads — perfect for a hanging basket centerpiece.
Care requirements
- Light: Needs bright, direct to indirect sunlight.
- Water: Drought-tolerant; water sparingly.
- Maintenance: Protect from overwatering and frost.
Unique appeal in décor
String of Pearls is an indoor fragrance-friendly plant that doubles as living art with its unusual shape.
4. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
The lush, feathery fronds of the Boston Fern make it one of the most popular hanging basket plants.
Care requirements
- Light: Prefers indirect light.
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist.
- Maintenance: Mist leaves regularly for humidity.
Air-purifying benefits
Boston Ferns are fantastic air purifiers, improving your breathing health indoors. Perfect for a cozy home office or living room.
5. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
A favorite among beginners, the Heartleaf Philodendron has glossy, heart-shaped leaves that cascade beautifully.
Care requirements
- Light: Thrives in low to medium indirect light.
- Water: Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Maintenance: Extremely low-maintenance.
Perfect for beginners
It’s one of the ultimate low-maintenance plants, making it ideal for those new to indoor gardening.
6. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos, also called Devil’s Ivy, is a trailing powerhouse that adapts to nearly any condition.
Care requirements
- Light: Tolerates low to bright indirect light.
- Water: Let soil dry slightly between waterings.
- Maintenance: Prune to control length.
Versatility and low maintenance
Whether you want a lush evergreen houseplant or a stylish living room décor accent, Pothos fits perfectly into any basket.
Tips for Styling Hanging Houseplants Indoors
Styling is where your creativity shines. Hanging baskets are more than just containers — they’re part of your home design.
Choosing the right basket material
Woven baskets bring warmth, while ceramic pots offer a modern touch.
Mixing and matching plant varieties
Pair cascading plants with upright growers for contrast. Try mixing a Pothos with a Boston Fern for texture.
Seasonal care adjustments
Your plants’ needs change with the seasons. Explore seasonal care tips to keep them thriving year-round.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Hanging Houseplants
Even the most enthusiastic plant parents can slip up. Here are mistakes to watch out for:
Overwatering risks
Because baskets drain fast, it’s tempting to water too often. Stick to your plant’s schedule.
Ignoring lighting conditions
Not all hanging spots get enough light. Don’t just hang a basket for looks — think about sunlight.
Forgetting regular pruning
Trailing plants can become tangled and messy. A quick trim keeps them vibrant and neat.
Conclusion
Hanging baskets are a fantastic way to elevate your home décor while keeping your indoor jungle fresh and stylish. From the timeless English Ivy to the low-maintenance Pothos, these six houseplants are perfect choices for baskets. With the right care, styling, and attention, they’ll not only beautify your space but also improve your indoor air and overall well-being. For more plant guides, explore I Love Houseplant for inspiration.
FAQs
1. Which hanging houseplant is easiest for beginners?
The Heartleaf Philodendron and Pothos are the easiest, thanks to their low-maintenance needs.
2. Can I keep hanging houseplants in my bedroom?
Absolutely! Spider Plants and English Ivy are excellent bedroom plants that freshen up your air.
3. Do hanging plants need special soil?
Yes. Use well-draining potting mix, especially for succulents like String of Pearls.
4. How often should I water a Boston Fern in a basket?
Keep the soil consistently moist, and mist the fronds to provide humidity.
5. Are these plants safe for pets?
Spider Plants are safe, but Pothos and Philodendrons are toxic. Always check the cat-safe plants and dog-safe plants lists before buying.
6. Can I mix different plants in the same hanging basket?
Yes, but make sure they share similar light and watering needs.
7. What’s the best place to hang a basket indoors?
Near a bright window with indirect light is ideal. Avoid placing baskets directly above heaters or air vents.