How to Line Large & Unusual Shaped Hanging Baskets: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 10/05/2025

Hanging baskets add a touch of whimsical charm and vibrant color to any outdoor space. But when those baskets stray from the standard spherical shape – think oversized, uniquely sculpted containers, or even repurposed items – the task of lining them for planting becomes a bit more challenging. Perfectly lining these unusual vessels is crucial to prevent soil spillage and ensure the healthy growth of your plants. Forgetting to line them properly can lead to messy drips and frustrated gardeners.

Creating lush, overflowing displays in these larger-than-life containers is easier than you might think. This guide will walk you through a step-by-step process, providing practical advice and techniques for lining any size and shape of hanging basket, no matter how unconventional. Get ready to transform your outdoor space with beautifully planted, uniquely shaped hanging baskets!

Safety Guidelines

  • Always wear gloves when working with moss, coco liners, or any other lining material to protect your hands from splinters or irritants.
  • Ensure the basket is securely hung and stable before you begin lining. A heavy, awkwardly shaped basket can be dangerous if it tips while you're working.
  • Use appropriate lifting techniques when handling heavy materials and filled baskets to avoid injury. Ask for help if needed.

Methods: Overlapping Liner Method for Wide Baskets

Tools Needed

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Liner Placement

    • Place the first piece of liner material into the basket.
    • Position the second piece of liner material, overlapping the first in the center by approximately six inches.
    Position the second piece of liner material, overlapping the first in the center by approximately six inches.Position the second piece of liner material, overlapping the first in the center by approximately six inches.
    Liner Placement

  2. Reservoir Creation

    • Add a polythene liner to the bottom to create a reservoir for water.

  3. Filling and Finishing

    • Add compost and slow-release fertilizer.
    • Fill the basket to the top.
    • Pull lightly on the overlapping liner to create a neat finish.
    • Use garden twine to secure the liner around the rim of the basket.
    Use garden twine to secure the liner around the rim of the basket.Use garden twine to secure the liner around the rim of the basket.Use garden twine to secure the liner around the rim of the basket.Use garden twine to secure the liner around the rim of the basket.
    Filling and Finishing

Tips

  • The overlapping method works well for baskets up to 36 inches.
  • For wider baskets, adjust the overlap as needed.

Methods: Lining Oval or Rod Iron Baskets

Tools Needed

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Positioning the Liner

    • Place the first piece of material down the front of the basket to the bottom.
    • Place the second piece down the back of the basket.
    Place the second piece down the back of the basket.Place the second piece down the back of the basket.
    Positioning the Liner

  2. Securing the Liner

    • Overlap the first piece and tuck it in.
    Overlap the first piece and tuck it in.
    Securing the Liner

  3. Trimming the Liner

    • Trim the excess liner material, leaving 4-5 inches on the oval top.
    Trim the excess liner material, leaving 4-5 inches on the oval top.
    Trimming the Liner

  4. Finishing and Securing

    • Fold the liner over the rim and secure with twine.
    Fold the liner over the rim and secure with twine.
    Finishing and Securing

Tips

  • This method works for baskets up to 56 inches.
  • Adjust the amount of liner material left for the top depending on the basket's width.

Read more: Effortless Hanging Basket Planting: A Step-by-Step Guide

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using the Wrong Liner Material

Reason: Choosing a liner that's too thin, rips easily, or doesn't have adequate drainage holes can lead to root rot and plant death. Heavy, inflexible materials can also make planting difficult.
Solution: Select a liner made of durable, breathable fabric with sufficient drainage holes, sized appropriately for your basket.

2. Improper Liner Placement and Securing

Reason: A poorly secured liner can shift or bunch up inside the basket, restricting plant growth or even falling out, resulting in a messy and ineffective planting space.
Solution: Ensure the liner is evenly distributed within the basket and securely fastened with appropriate techniques, such as twisting excess fabric and tucking it in or using wire to create a secure edge.

FAQs

What type of liner is best for large, unusual shaped hanging baskets?
For large and unusually shaped baskets, a flexible liner like coco coir, landscape fabric, or even a heavy-duty plastic garbage bag (for temporary use) works best. Avoid rigid liners that won't conform to the shape.
How do I prevent my liner from sagging or bunching in a large basket?
To prevent sagging, consider using multiple layers of liner material or a thicker, more supportive liner. You can also add a layer of landscape fabric on top of the liner to create a stable base for your soil. Secure the liner edges to the basket with twist ties or heavy-duty staples if needed.
My basket has unusual drainage holes - how do I manage drainage?
If your basket has poorly placed or unusual drainage holes, you may need to augment drainage. You can create extra holes in the liner itself using a sharp tool or use a layer of gravel or broken pottery at the bottom of the liner to improve water flow before adding soil.