Gardening expert Alan Titchmarsh has shared a simple yet effective method to keep hanging baskets thriving with less water during the summer heat. The key, he says, is adding water-storing crystals to the compost.
Why Hanging Baskets Dry Out Quickly
Hanging baskets are particularly susceptible to drying out because they are suspended in mid-air, exposed to sun and wind on all sides. This increases evaporation, and the limited soil volume means less moisture retention. According to Titchmarsh, the "biggest problem" with hanging baskets is that they dry out rapidly.
Titchmarsh's Solution: Water-Storing Crystals
In a TikTok video on his account @gardeningalantitchmarsh, Titchmarsh demonstrated how to incorporate water-storing crystals into the compost. "You can add them to the compost, sprinkle them in, and work them in with your fingers," he explained. "Once water hits them, they expand and they become a kind of gel. They stop hanging baskets drying out as quickly as they otherwise would." The crystals absorb moisture and slowly release it back to the roots, helping plants stay hydrated longer.
Endorsement from the Royal Horticultural Society
The Royal Horticultural Society also recommends using water-retaining granules to "reduce the amount of times you would need to water." They note that natural alternatives are available, such as Twool Woolly Water Keeper and Ecofective Natural Water Storing Granules.
Additional Care Tips
Despite using crystals, gardeners should still monitor moisture levels. Titchmarsh advises checking the top inch of soil regularly, as hanging baskets require more water than potted plants due to their exposure. The combination of crystals and attentive watering can keep baskets flourishing all season.
