Hanging Baskets
Hanging Baskets
Numerous tropical and annual bedding plants can be grown successfully in hanging baskets. Hanging basket production enables greenhouse growers to generate income by utilizing space above production benches or floor space and walkways. Hanging baskets can fetch a higher price (on a per plant basis) than small containers or flats and can, therefore, enhance the profitability of greenhouse bedding plant operations. In some instances, growers may devote whole or sections of greenhouses to hanging basket production.
Key Requirements
| Land | Low |
| Labor | High |
| Capital | High |
Take the HortBizQuiz to see how much Land, Labor, and Capital you have for your operation.
Markets
- Direct to Consumer
- Farmer's Market
- Wholesale
- Auction
Pests & Disease
Greenhouse conditions that favor plant growth also favor the rapid build-up and spread of insects and diseases. Caterpillars can be a problem in greenhouses with open sides. A number of greenhouse pests have developed pesticide resistance, so multiple applications of chemicals with different modes of action may be necessary to control many of these problems.
Costs and returns are presented as estimates. They will vary based on your farm and markets.
Costs and returns are presented as estimates. They will vary based on your farm and markets.
Challenges
- A heated greenhouse structure is necessary for producing hanging baskets for the important spring market.
- A high-risk business with significant start-up costs as well as demanding labor and management.
Opportunities
- Consumers showed preference for larger hanging baskets incorporating diverse plants in unique containers.
- Hanging baskets can be a way to utilize overhead space in the greenhouse and add more value of production per square foot.