How to Plant Tomatoes Upside Down in a Hanging Basket

Planting tomatoes upside down in a hanging basket is a great way to save space and grow fresh produce in a small area. Not only does it offer an interesting and unique way to display your plants, but it also helps keep pests and diseases at bay. So, let’s get started with these easy steps to help you plant your tomato plants upside down in a hanging basket.

Choose the Right Basket

The first step is to choose a sturdy and large basket that can hold enough soil and retain water. The basket should be at least 12 inches in diameter and have a depth of 16 to 18 inches. Make sure there are drainage holes so that the soil does not get waterlogged. Additionally, select a location that gets enough sunlight for your tomato plant; six to eight hours of sunlight a day is recommended.

Prep the Basket

Before starting to plant your tomato plant, ensure that the container is cleaned and ready to use. You can use a mixture of equal parts water and bleach to clean the basket. Rinse the container thoroughly with water and let it dry out completely.

Fill the Basket with Soil

Fill the basket with soil, leaving about 2 inches at the top. Make sure to use a well-draining soil mix that contains equal parts of potting soil, perlite, and vermiculite. Gently pat the soil with your hands to make it slightly firm, making sure no large air pockets are left in the soil.

Plant the Tomato Plant

Next, you’ll need to plant the tomato plant. Turn the basket upside down to plant the tomato from the bottom. The stem goes through the drainage hole, and the roots go into the basket. Add a little bit of soil to cover the tomato's roots, and gently tap the soil to settle it around the plant.

Hang the Basket

Finally, it's time to hang the basket. Clip on the hanger to the top of the basket and make sure it’s securely attached. Find a strong and sturdy hook or nail to hang the basket, making sure it's level. Water the plant thoroughly, and you’re done! You can also place a saucer under the basket to catch overflow water.

Conclusion

Planting tomatoes upside down in a hanging basket is an easy and fun way to grow fresh produce at home, even if you have limited space. It’s essential to choose the right basket, prep it well, and use the proper soil mix to ensure the tomato plant can thrive. Follow these easy steps, and you will have fresh, juicy tomatoes in no time.