Low-maintenance geranium hanging planters – the ultimate guide

Hanging planters – Planted with colourful geraniums, they will transform your balcony, patio or garden into a blooming oasis. They take up little space, are easy to care for and add colour to your home with their rich red, pink or purple hues. 

Just imagine sitting back and relaxing with a cool drink in your hand and vibrant flowers swaying in the summer breeze above you. No tedious gardening, no complicated maintenance. Just colour, style and that holiday feeling. With a hanging planter of geraniums, you need hardly worry! They’ll look beautiful for months – with minimal effort. 

In this guide find out how to use geraniums in hanging planters to create an outdoor space that looks like something out of a glossy magazine. So let’s get started. Treat yourself to the best summer balcony of your life! 

Key facts at a glance 

• Space-saving displays: Hanging planters of geraniums transform balconies, patios and gardens into blooming oases. Ideal for small outdoor spaces, they create an atmospheric feel without taking up too much space.  

• An easy choice of plant: Geraniums are the perfect pick for hanging planters as they tolerate heat and changing weather well, flower for months and require minimal maintenance.  

• Location and care tips: It’s important to give geraniums a sunny location (at least 4-6 hours a day) for them to thrive. Apart from watering, fertilising and removing wilted flowers and foliage, they don’t need any special care to maintain their lush flowers.  

• Creative design ideas: Hanging planters allow you to create individual, stylish accents, from contemporary, to Mediterranean, to urban jungle. 

Table of contents 

Why hanging planters? Your outdoor space needs them!
The best plants for low-maintenance hanging planters 
How to position your geranium hanging planter correctly  
Easy-care & always in bloom: How to keep your hanging planter looking great  
DIY & upcycling: hanging planters as design features  
Styling tips: How to make a statement hanging planter 
Common challenges & clever solutions  
First aid: when your hanging planter’s geraniums look limp 
Frequently asked questions about hanging planters 

Why hanging planters? Your outdoor space needs them! 

Balcony, patio, garden or entrance area look unappealing, but you don’t want big pots? Balcony or patio hanging planters bring lush blooms to eye level without taking up valuable space. They are perfect for small outdoor spaces or outside displays that need more style with less effort. 

More than just decoration – hanging planters make all the difference 

Suspended flowers stand out. They make a statement, create a welcoming atmosphere and transform any corner, no matter how plain. And the best part? Because they’re not on the ground, there is plenty of room for furniture, a barbecue or a lounge area. 

Why geraniums are the perfect choice 

Not every summer flower is at home in a hanging planter. Geraniums (botanical name: Pelargonium) are made for it! They can withstand summer heat, rain showers and bloom from the start of the summer season until the first frost, without the need for constant watering or maintenance. While other flowering plants wilt in extreme weather conditions, geraniums grow vigorously, even in hanging planters, their vibrant flowers falling in lush cascades to bring colour and joy all summer long.  

And they adapt to your style: bright pink for a wow effect, classic red for a Mediterranean feel or subtle white for an elegant patio – you choose. No wonder they have been decorating balconies, gardens and windowsills across Europe for generations. 

Longevity, style & tradition – the perfect combination 

High-quality European geraniums are not only hardy, but also versatile. 

✔ They bloom for months and will last even longer with the right care.  
✔ They suit all styles, from modern to romantic.  
✔ They bring a touch of tradition to your balcony or garden.  
➡️ All about the history of the beloved geranium 

Now you know why a hanging planter is a great addition to your outdoor decor. But which plants produce the most beautiful flowers? Here are the best choices for floating  planters! 

The best plants for low-maintenance hanging planters 

A hanging planter needs plants that grow vigorously, flower for months and require little maintenance. Trailing geraniums (Pelargonium peltatum) are perfect for this. Their long, flexible stems grow up to 1.5m long, with flowers appearing in dense cascades from May until the first frost. If you prefer a more compact look, you can plant zonal geraniums (Pelargonium zonale) in hanging planters. They grow upright and are often used in combination with perennials. Scented and butterfly geraniums and other special varieties also make good plants for hanging displays. It is unusual, however, to plant regal pelargoniums in a hanging planter. On the other hand, why not? Just give it a try. 

👉 Here’s a step-by-step guide to planting geraniums in a hanging planter! 

What size should the planter be? 

Geraniums need room for their roots. The container should be at least 20cm in diameter, preferably more if there is more than one geranium. The larger the volume, the better the soil retains moisture. This means less watering and healthier plants. 

Long life & good looks – the right colour choice 

Geraniums come in many different colours. But which one will look best in your hanging display?  

🎨 Clean & contemporary: White geraniums create a simple, elegant look.  
💃 Mediterranean & vibrant: Deep red geraniums add a southern flair.  
💗 Romantic & playful: Pink and purple shades look soft and dreamy.  

For even more versatility, combine several hues to create exciting contrasts or go for multi-coloured geraniums. For example, red and white look fresh, pink and purple are harmonious, and combinations of white and ornamental leaf geraniums add a touch of elegance. 

Does a geranium hanging planter need companion plants? 

Geraniums look great on their own. You can even combine different varieties to great effect. They can also be enhanced with companion plants. Geraniums and these plants complement each other very well: 

• Verbena (Verbena Hybrid) – bright flowers all summer long.  
• Water hyssop (Bacopa) – delicate flowers for an airy look.  
• Blue Daisy (Brachyscome) – small splashes of colour for contrast. 

Now it’s all about the right place! In the next section, learn how best to position your planter to get the most out of it. 

How to position your geranium hanging planter correctly  

Flowers are blooming, greenery is sprouting, but where is the best place to put your hanging display? Balcony, patio or entrance area? The right location determines how well your geraniums will grow, how easy they’ll be to care for and how they will look. The right location means more flowers, less maintenance and maximum impact. 

Sunny spot or shady corner? Where geraniums really thrive 

Geraniums love light. They should receive at least 4-6 hours of sunlight a day. In general, the more sunlight they receive, the more profusely they will flower.  
✔ Geraniums will happily tolerate a south- or west-facing position. There’s plenty of sun here and geraniums will feel right at home.  
✔ East-facing – morning sun is enough for vigorous growth.  
❌ North-facing spot – too dark, flowers will not bloom. 

Balcony, terrace or entrance area: where does a hanging planter work best? 

A splash of floral colour at eye level – no matter where you place it, a hanging display is an attention grabber. But not every spot is the same. With the right position, it becomes a real showstopper and is still easy to maintain. 

• Balcony: Perfect for small spaces! Hang your planter from the ceiling. Make sure it doesn’t hit the walls when the wind picks up.  
• Patio: Here you have room for brackets or hooks on the wall or canopy. Enhance seating areas or combine hanging planters with containers of upright plants. Tip: Place them near your favourite seating area, so you can always enjoy the view.  
• Entrance area: A hanging planter by the door welcomes guests with colour. For a special effect, choose flowers in shades that match your front door. 

Tip: Strong wind? Secure your hanging planter with a second hook!  
➡️ Find more creative ideas for hanging arrangements here! 

Hanging planters with & without drilling holes 

Hanging displays are a fantastic way to brighten up your outdoor space with trailing plants such as geraniums. Depending on the conditions and your personal preferences, you can choose between different mounting methods, both with and without drilling.  
💪 Durable & stable 
✔ Ceiling hooks with wallplugs: provide a secure hold and are perfect for balconies and patios. Make sure the ceiling can support the weight of the planted container, by using heavy-duty wallplugs.  
✔ Metal wall brackets: ideal for entrances and facades. They provide a sturdy mount and a decorative way to display your hanging planter. Make sure the material is rustproof (e.g. stainless steel) if the bracket is to remain outside permanently.  
🔄 Drill-free alternative  
✔ Freestanding hanging planter stands: adaptable and perfect for patios. Make sure the stand is stable enough, otherwise it may blow over in the wind. 
✔ S-hook or carabiner: If you have a roof or pergola, you can suspend a hanging planter with a sturdy S-hook or carabiner.  
Tip: Consider the watering height! A hanging display that can only be reached with a ladder makes watering and maintenance difficult. Chest height or slightly above is ideal for irrigating your plants comfortably. 

How do you calculate the load capacity of the fixing you are using? 

Hanging planters quickly become heavy with moist soil, plants and water. An average planted hanging display can easily weigh 5-10kg. Always check your hanging system can safely support this weight. It’s always better to choose a stronger hook! 
Your hanging planter looks perfect. Now all you need is the right know-how to keep it blooming for months on end. A few simple tricks will help you get the most out of your plants. Minimum effort, maximum blooms! 

Easy-care & always in bloom: How to keep your hanging display looking great  

The stems are bursting with flowers, lush green between bright red, pink or purple – this is what a hanging planter should look like! To keep it that way for months on end, it doesn’t need much care, just a few simple tricks.  

Watering, fertilising and a little attention is usually enough to keep it healthy. It’s important that water can drain away easily. Containers without an outlet hole should have a drainage layer of expanded clay or gravel and should be hung in a location out of the rain to prevent waterlogging. Standing water can quickly cause root rot and damage your geraniums. 

Watering correctly: How to keep your hanging planter moist for longer 

The biggest problem with hanging planters? Water just runs through because there’s no tray, so the soil can dry out quickly on hot days.  
The trick is to water slowly. Don’t pour it all in at once, but give a small amount first, wait a while and then pour more. This gives the soil time to absorb the water. If your planter doesn’t have a drainage hole, make sure it doesn’t hold water. Don’t allow excess moisture to remain after watering, as this can cause the roots to rot.  
Completely dry? The water will just run off. There’s only one solution: submerge it. Carefully remove your hanging planter and place it in a tub of water for 10 minutes. This allows the soil to reabsorb the moisture. Next time, remember to water earlier. Keep the soil moist at all times, but never wet. Even easier: use hanging planters with a water reservoir.  
➡️ All you need to know about watering geraniums 

Fertiliser – the key to months of blooms 

Flowering needs energy. Without nutrients, blooms will fade quickly. To make things easy on yourself, add a slow-release fertiliser directly to the soil when you plant. You won’t need to do anything for weeks. Alternatively, liquid fertiliser every week or two will give you plenty of flowers.  
Tip: Always feed onto moist, never bone-dry, soil. Moist compost allows the nutrients to go straight to the roots without burning them.  
➡️ All you need to know about fertilising geraniums 

A sea of flowers without work: self-cleaning geraniums & pruning 

Self-cleaning geraniums shed spent blooms on their own. No cleaning, no intervention. Just let them grow and enjoy. Ask your nursery for the right varieties. 
All other geraniums need a bit of care. Simply break off faded flowers and yellow leaves with two fingers (hold the stem at the leaf node and break it off with a quick snap). This boosts flowering.  It helps zonal geraniums, in particular, to produce new flowers quickly. Small action, big impact!  
These simple tricks will keep your hanging planter in full bloom for months on your balcony or patio with very little effort. 
➡️ More geranium care tips 

Your hanging planter is almost perfect. But how can you make it even more unique? Here are some creative DIY ideas to add a personal touch. 

DIY & upcycling – hanging planters as design features 

Using the right material, you can create different styles to suit your balcony, patio or garden. How about these design ideas using geraniums? 

Minimalist & Modern: metal frames or concrete-look hanging planters with a metal chain look sleek and high-end, especially when combined with white plants for an elegant look. 
Natural & cosy: Rattan or wooden hanging planters blend harmoniously into a green setting. Ideal if you want your outdoor space to look relaxed and homely. 
Warm & Mediterranean: Clay or terracotta pots work wonderfully with classic red or pink geraniums and transform your home into a Mediterranean dream. 
Playful & individual: upcycling ideas like old teapots, buckets or lampshades will make your hanging planter a real eye-catcher. Extra cool: Use an old birdcage turned upside down as a hanging planter, filled withcolourful trailing geraniums! 
Tip: Materials can be mixed and matched beautifully. A chunky wooden frame with a pot of geraniums in it and a modern metal chain to hang it on? It works! A concrete-look bowl in a softly falling macramé hanger? The perfect mix of modern and boho. 
Want more? Click here for more hanging planter ideas! 

DIY & upcycling: Not a fan of crafting? You don’t have to be! 

Does DIY sound like a glue gun and hours of work? Forget that! Today it’s all about creating stylish, unique pieces with simple means. Not off-the-shelf plastic, but something with character, just the way you want it. 

🎥 Step by step: DIY leather hanging planter. Watch the video now!

Styling tips: How to make a statement hanging planter 

Hanging planters can look spectacular or like a randomly hung flowerpot. The difference? The right position, colours and accessories can make them the focal point of your outdoor space. 

The most common styling mistakes and how to avoid them 

❌ “My hanging planter looks a bit lost.”  
✔ Use height to integrate it into the room! Don’t hang your planter in isolation but combine several at different heights. This creates dynamism. 
❌ “My hanging planter doesn’t go with the rest of my balcony.”  
✔ Look for contrasts & materials. A colourful hanging display against a dark wall or a rattan basket in a clean environment makes a statement. 
❌ “Somehow it doesn’t look right.”  
✔ Stick to one style. Too many materials, colours or shapes look chaotic. Recurring elements and coordinated colours create harmony. 
❌ “It’s missing something.”  
✔ Add matching outdoor accessories. Fairy lights, rugs or matching furniture will integrate your hanging planter into a harmonious balcony or patio design. 

🎥 Need more inspiration? Check out our video with creative hanging planter ideas!

Three styles perfect for today’s trends 

1. Modern & minimalist – clean & stylish 

Less is more: clean lines, muted colours and a tidy appearance give the hanging planter an elegant and timeless look. 

• Container: Metal or concrete-look in black, white or anthracite.  
• Plants: White geraniums combined with silvery foliage (e.g. liquorice plant, Helichrysum petiolare).  
• Accessories: Geometric wall bracket, string of warm white LED lights, sleek outdoor lounge furniture. 

Tip: Set the scene with your hanging planters! A dark wall behind them enhances the minimalist look. 

2. Homely & Mediterranean – holiday at home 

Warm colours and natural materials create a relaxed feel.

• Container: Hanging terracotta pots or woven baskets.  
• Plants: Red geraniums, combined with fragrant lavender (Lavandula) or lemon thyme (Thymus citriodorus).  
• Accessories: Lanterns, wooden furniture with sunny yellow cushions, a small side table with decorative olive jars and fresh herbs. 

Tip: Suspend several hanging planters at different heights. This has a relaxed, informal effect and creates a real holiday feel. 

3. Urban jungle – a green oasis in the city 

For those who live in the middle of the city but still want to be surrounded by nature. 

• Containers: Hanging macramé pots or upcycling ideas such as old metal baskets.  
• Plants: Trailing geraniums, why not combine them with green-leaved sweet potatoes?  
• Accessories: Outdoor rugs in earthy tones, wooden furniture and large flowerpots on the floor for even more greenery. 

Tip: In summer, combine hanging displays with tall plants on the ground. This enhances the jungle look. 

Let’s move on: What problems can you expect with hanging planters and how can you solve them? Here are the best tips for healthy, thriving plants! 

Common challenges & clever solutions  

Everything looks perfect. Then suddenly the leaves turn yellow, the flowers dry up or the plant looks limp. Don’t panic! It happens to everyone. Almost all hanging planter problems can be solved quickly with a few little tricks. 

1. Why do my plants dry out even though I water them? 

The problem: a densely planted hanging display dries out more quickly than other containers. The water often just runs through without being absorbed by the soil. If the soil is completely dry, the water will even just run off. Also, plants in peat-free compost need to be watered more often than those in peaty soil. 

The solution: 

✔ Pour slowly, in doses. Give a splash of water, wait, then another splash.
✔ Test the soil: If it’s completely dry, submerge the planter in a bucket of water for 10 minutes.
✔ Use containers with water reservoirs to prevent it from drying out. 

Bonus tip: Check your plants morning and evening to see if they need watering, and water if necessary. 

2. My geraniums are not flowering. What’s the problem? 

The problem: geraniums only bloom if they have enough light, water and nutrients. Too little sun or the wrong fertiliser can slow growth. The result is lots of foliage but few flowers. 
The solution: 
✔ Check the location: At least 4-6 hours of direct light a day are needed.  
✔ Use the right fertiliser: Not just nitrogen! This will stimulate the leaves but not the flowers. Always use a complex flowering balcony plant or geranium feed, according to the package instructions.  
✔ Remove dead flowers regularly to allow the plant to put energy into new buds. 
Bonus tip: Self-cleaning geraniums save you the hassle of pruning. Ideal if you’re short of time. 

3. How can I tell when my hanging planter needs fresh compost? 

Good quality potting compost will last a whole season. However, if you are overwintering your geraniums in hanging displays, be sure to repot them in the spring. Fresh soil will allow the roots to grow again. The old compost has been exhausted. 
Tip: Use peat-free compost – good for your geraniums and the environment! 

4. Heat & constant rain: how to keep your flowers alive 

The problem: the sun beats down, then it rains again for days on end. Summer can be tough on plants. Geraniums are hardy, but even extreme weather conditions can be tough on them. Too much heat dries out the soil, too much moisture can cause roots and flowers to rot. 
The solution: 
✔ In very hot weather, water in the morning and evening so the moisture doesn’t evaporate immediately.  
✔ On very hot days, when you can’t water enough, hang your planter in shade or partial shade for a short time.  
✔ If it rains continuously, move your planter to a sheltered place. 
Extra tip: A drainage layer of expanded clay at the base of the pot, combined with an outlet hole, allows excess water to drain away quickly. A must for healthy roots! 

First aid: when your hanging planter’s geraniums look limp 

1. Dried out, loose and dehydrated soil? 

Immediate action: Immerse your planter in a bucket of water for 10 minutes to rehydrate the soil. 
Then: Continue with your normal watering regime. 

2. Flooded after heavy rain? 

Immediate action: Pour off excess water. 
Then: Place your hanging planter in a protected spot to allow the soil to dry. If necessary, repot in fresh compost and move the plants to a different planter with drainage holes. 

3. Yellow leaves & poor growth? 

Immediate action: Strengthen plants with balcony plant food. 
Then: Check your hanging planter is getting enough sun. Change its location if necessary. Check for pests and diseases and treat, if necessary. 

4. Too cold for vigorous growth? 

Immediate action: Move your planter to a warmer, more sheltered spot, preferably indoors or against a wall out of the wind. 
Then: Only hang outside when temperatures are consistently above 12°C. Cool nights? A fleece or protective cover will help. 

➡️ More on frost and cold

Frequently asked questions about hanging planters 

Which plants are best for outdoor hanging planters? 

Without a doubt: geraniums! They are made for hanging displays. They bloom for months, are easy to care for and can withstand both heat and rain. Trailing geraniums (Pelargonium peltatum) are ideal. Their long stems grow elegantly downwards, filling both the planter and vertical space with lush flowers. 

How often should I water my hanging planter? 

Water daily on hot days and every two to three days in cooler weather. It’s important to water slowly, so the liquid doesn’t simply run off. If the soil is already dried out, a 10-minutes soak in water will help rehydrate it. 

Which compost is best for hanging planters? 

Geraniums need loose, nutrient-rich soil with good water retention. Specialist geranium or balcony plant compost is ideal as it holds water but is still permeable. 

How do I look after my hanging planter in winter? 

If you want to overwinter your geraniums, cut them back before the first frost and place them in a bright, cool place (5-10°C). They will only need a little water. Alternatively, you can empty your hanging planter in spring and simply replant it or buy a ready-planted one. This will save you time and effort. 

What’s the difference between a hanging planter and a hanging basket? 

The difference between a hanging planter and a hanging basket is mainly in the design and the plants. A hanging planter is a classic pot which can be hung and is made of plastic, ceramic or metal, usually with a closed base or drainage hole. It is ideal for trailing plants and is easy to suspend. 
A hanging basket is a wire frame (the basket) with a coconut fibre or moss insert. This means it can be planted all around, including the sides, giving it a lush look. However, it dries out more quickly than a hanging planter. Hanging baskets are particularly popular in English gardens. 

Can I design my own hanging planter? 

Yes, you can get creative if you want to make your own hanging planter. DIY versions made from macramé, wood or repurposed items such as buckets or baskets are really popular. With a little skill, you can create a unique hanging planter that works perfectly with your own garden or balcony. 

What is the difference between a hanging planter and a plant pot holder? 

The difference between a hanging planter and a plant pot holder is in its placement and function. A hanging planter is one that is attached to hooks with chains or ropes. It is ideal for hanging or trailing plants. Many hanging planters have a drainage hole to allow excess water to drain away. A  plant pot holder – also known as a plant pot cover, on the other hand, is a decorative container in which a normal plant pot is placed, to cover it up. It usually doesn’t have a drainage hole, so no water will run out – ideal for indoor use. While a hanging planter holds plants in the air, a plant pot holder/cover stands firmly on the ground and is mainly for aesthetic purposes. 

What are hanging planters made of? 

Hanging planters come in many different materials, which affect not only their appearance but also their durability and maintenance. Here are some common types and their characteristics. 
Metal hanging planters: Modern and often simple, these work well in minimalist or industrial settings. They are durable but will rust more quickly outdoors, depending on the coating. Most are designed for indoor use. 
Plastic hanging planters: the cheapest and easiest to maintain option. Plastic hanging planters are lightweight, weatherproof and available in many colours. Ideal for balconies and patios. 
Macramé hanging planters: These handmade cotton rope designs add a natural boho look to outdoor spaces. You can place a planter that suits your taste in the macramé net. Often handmade. 
Metal hanging planter and flowerpot: A combination of metal frame and matching pot, often sold as a set. They are sturdy and stylish, especially in modern gardens. As they are mostly intended for indoor use, there’s usually no drainage hole in the base. 
Natural hanging planter: These include designs made from rattan, sea grass or jute. They look really good in a naturalistic garden. 
Woven hanging planter: Typically made from willow or rattan, these planters have a rustic look. They are lightweight and durable, but less weatherproof than metal or plastic. 
Wooden hanging planter: These look warm and natural but, to last, they need to be protected from moisture outdoors. 
Hanging planter with metal chain: These models have a sturdy metal chain for hanging and are very durable.