We Specialize in Spectacular Combination Baskets
At Big John's Farm Market & Greenhouse, we create over 16,000 hanging baskets each season, specializing in stunning combination baskets that feature multiple plant varieties working together in perfect harmony. From our signature 18-inch moss baskets with up to 20 plants to classic single-variety displays, each basket is expertly planted and nurtured from late January through Mother's Day to ensure you receive a full, flourishing basket ready to beautify your home.
Available: Mid-April through season end (while supplies last)
Ready to Bloom: Mid April til first frost
What Makes Our Hanging Baskets Special
Grown From Start to Finish
We begin planting in late January, carefully nurturing each basket through its entire growing cycle. By the time you purchase, your basket is already established, full, and ready to thrive at your home.
Basket Sizes & Styles
Single - Variety Hanging Baskets
Combination Hanging Baskets
Our specialty! These expertly designed baskets feature multiple plant varieties working together to create stunning displays with varied heights, textures, and continuous color.
Popular Combination Styles
Ideal Locations for Your Baskets
SHADE TO PART-SHADE (2-4 hours sun or dappled light)
Best Choices:
- All Ferns (Boston, etc.)
- Wandering Jew
- Bridal Veil
- Fuchsia
- New Guinea Impatiens
- Straight Impatiens
- All Begonia varieties (Elator, Waterfall, Bossa Nova, Non-Stop, Dragon Wing)
- Shade combination baskets
Perfect for: North-facing porches, covered patios, under trees or eaves
FULL SUN TO PART-SUN (6+ hours direct sun)
Best Choices:
- Calibrachoa
- Petunias (all varieties)
- Geraniums
- Scaevola
- Lantana
- Portulaca
- Sunpatiens
- Vinca
- Wave Petunias
- Sun combination baskets
Perfect for: South or west-facing locations, open decks, shepherd's hooks in yards, fence brackets
Care & Maintenance
Planting Schedule & Blooming
- We start planting: Late January through February
- Target bloom date: Mother's Day weekend
- Season length: End of April through first frost (typically late October)
- With proper care: Your basket should thrive for 5-6 months
What's Included
Every hanging basket comes with:
- Care tag on basket: General care overview
- Individual plant tags: Specific care for each variety in your basket
- Care information includes: Watering needs, sun requirements, fertilizing schedule
Watering Guidelines
- Shade baskets: Less frequent watering (soil stays moist longer)
- Sun baskets: More frequent watering (dry out faster, especially in summer)
- General rule: Check soil daily in hot weather; water when top inch is dry
- Morning watering: Best time to water for optimal plant health
Fertilizing
- Frequency: Every 2 weeks recommended
- Type: Water-soluble fertilizer for flowering plants
- Result: Encourages continuous blooming and healthy growth
Deadheading & Maintenance
Geraniums: Remove entire spent flower stem at base—encourages new blooms
Petunias: Pull off faded flowers—promotes new flower production
Low-maintenance options: Lantana, Scaevola, Vinca (no deadheading needed)
Trimming Tips:
- If petunias or other plants get leggy/stringy, trim them back
- Cutting back encourages bushier growth from the top
- Don't be afraid to give plants a "haircut" mid-season
- Ask our staff for advice on which plants can be trimmed
Drainage
- All baskets have proper drainage holes
- Never let baskets sit in standing water
- Excess water should freely drain
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit Us To See Our Full Selection
With over 16,000 hanging baskets grown on-site each season, we offer one of the largest and most diverse selections in Northwest Indiana. Our knowledgeable greenhouse staff is always available to help you select the perfect basket for your space and provide expert care advice.