Monroe County Master Gardener Association

Last Summer I visited Krones Conservatory to see their Butterfly exhibit.  Within the Exhibit there were these baskets at various levels and heights filled with flowers.  I knew this was something I wanted to try in my garden.  I have a few areas that need height.  I’ve been searching since then for these holders.  Still haven’t found the exact ones that are shown here, in the photos.  However, I found some online that are very similar.  The basic difference is the pole.  These use a 4×4 instead of an adjustable round pole.  I certainly will use this method in my garden this summer.  If anyone is interested in these as well, you can find them at http://www.gardenartisans.us/borderandpatiocolumns.aspx.  There are some great photos there of the kits used.  If you click on the section at the top “Pamela Crawford’s Side Planting Container Gardens” you will be re-directed to another page.  This shows her planting some of the baskets.  For a full PDF Tutorial click on “View Planting Demos here”. (about midway down).  This PDF can be saved for future warm weather.   Kits are available for purchase there.  If you’re handy you can make your own.   The ground spikes can be found at a home improvement store. They are in with deck materials.  I actually purchase 4 of them for my arbor but never used them.   The 4×4 material can also be purchased there.  Just cut them to the various levels and paint them.  The ones included in the kit are black, however I suggest you add bright color on the posts for interest.  An alternate wood block or metal block can be  used to clamp the basket to the top of the post and stabilize it.  I also thought plexiglass may work well for this.  It would be less noticeable  Then you just need some  U shape clamps to hold the wire basket in place or the large staples you hammer in. These are located in plumbing & electrical section of the store.  They use these for holding wire, conduit and pipes in place.  We can’t do a lot of outdoor gardening now, so it’s a great time to plan and prepare.  I plan on using those 4 spikes this coming Spring.  Enjoy your planning.