What alternatives exist for commercial basket liners?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Healthy hanging plants can be achieved without the necessity of commercial basket liners. There are eco-friendly alternatives like burlap coffee sacks and moss that will accomplish this while being more sustainable. I have been using these alternatives for many years now; they save money and give new purpose to materials that would otherwise be wasted. Creative design works the same when "eco-friendly" brings together just the right materials for your plants.
Recycled Burlap
- Made from coffee bean sacks available free at roasteries
- Allows excellent air circulation preventing root rot
- Lasts one season before composting in garden beds
- Cut to size and double-layer for better moisture retention
Landscape Fabric
- Use scraps from gardening projects reducing waste
- Provides superior drainage while blocking weeds
- UV-resistant material lasts 2-3 seasons outdoors
- Secure edges with garden staples preventing shifting
Biodegradable Cardboard
- Free material from shipping boxes or packaging
- Layers create insulation against temperature swings
- Lasts 4-6 months before decomposing naturally
- Wax-free corrugated types work best for plant health
Application methods differ by component, immerse the burlap before putting it on to minimize shrinkage, or otherwise. When using cardboard, confuse the litter as though it were overlapping shingles. When using a substitute, I apply jute twine to secure them, as opposed to plastic ties. Lastly, keep in mind that constructed liners from these alternative materials work effectively when the method is applied like a commercial liner.
Moisture management is different with different liners. Burlap requires supplemental watering in hot weather, while cardboard retains more moisture. Sphagnum moss can be added between the layers for thirsty plants. When I use an unconventional liner, I will check soil moisture daily. Your plants are hydrated perfectly with a few modulations.
Seasonal considerations can direct brand material selections. Cardboard is great at the beginning of the fall and in the cooler months, but it will break down quickly under summer rain. Sphagnum moss is better in high humidity, while burlap does better in drier climates. I tend to rotate the materials based on weather patterns throughout all seasons to ensure you receive the utmost in adorableness and protection throughout the year.
Source responsibly for sustainable practices. It is essential to collect burlap from local coffee shops that would otherwise be discarded as waste. Whenever I can use cardboard from deliveries instead of buying new, I will. I try to ethically harvest moss by taking tiny patches that will not affect the moss growth at that site. I teach my clients these sustainable practices during the workshops I lead. Your garden becomes greener with even your conscious choices.
Read the full article: Everything About Hanging Basket Liners
