- Which plant varieties work best for hanging displays
- How to properly pot or mount them
- Watering, fertilizing, and pruning tips
- Creative ways to arrange and hang them in business or home environments
Introduction
Hanging and trailing plants are indoor plants with vines or stems that cascade downward, either from baskets, mounted pots, or shelves. Their graceful descent adds natural charm and movement to interiors without occupying floor space.
These plants have become staples in small-space design—whether it’s a cozy apartment, a stylish café, or a modern coworking space. Their popularity owes much to their versatility and the calming, biophilic aesthetic they create.
Beyond stylistic appeal, hanging and trailing plants offer real advantages: they help purify the air, introduce vertical interest, and foster a more peaceful atmosphere. In the sections below, we’ll walk you through how to choose the right varieties for your environment and how to keep them thriving.
Ideal Species for Hanging Baskets & Shelves
Selecting the right variety is the foundation of a healthy and attractive hanging plant display. Here are some beginner-friendly options sorted by light and humidity preferences:
For Bright Indirect Light
- String of Pearls – Succulent look, low water needs
- Spider Plant – Fast-growing, air-purifying
- English Ivy – Classic elegance, fast spreader
For Low-Light Conditions
- Pothos – Extremely forgiving, various leaf colors
- Heartleaf Philodendron – Low maintenance, heart-shaped leaves
- ZZ Raven – Unique dark foliage, drought-tolerant
For Humidity-Rich Spaces (e.g., Bathrooms)
- Boston Fern – Flourishes with moisture
- Hoya – Waxy leaves, occasional blooms
- Tradescantia – Vibrant striping, fast trailing growth
For more plant profiles and help selecting the right fit for your environment, see our Houseplant Types & Selection guide.
Potting & Mounting Methods
Once you’ve selected plants, it’s time to explore potting and mounting options that are both safe and stylish.
Hanging Pot Options
- Macrame hangers – Boho aesthetic, easy to install
- Ceiling hooks – Use for baskets or mounted vessels
- Wall-mounted brackets – Great for layered trailing looks
Choosing the Right Vessel
- Drainage holes are essential to avoid waterlogging
- Size should accommodate root system plus airflow
- Material choices: terracotta (breathable), plastic (lightweight), ceramic (decorative)
Shelf & Wall Setups
- Shelf displays: Let vines trail over shelf edges; secure with bumpers if needed
- Vertical wall planters: Can include grid systems, floating shelves, or repurposed wall ladders
Safety Considerations
Always verify weight tolerance for ceiling hooks or wall brackets. For commercial or public spaces, secure plants firmly to avoid any risk of falling.
Watering & Fertilization
Proper watering and feeding routines are key to healthy trailing plants.
Watering Tips
- Check soil moisture before watering—many indoor varieties prefer to slightly dry out between waters
- Use long-neck watering cans or take pots down for a safe and thorough soak
- Drip trays underneath catch excess water and protect surfaces
Signs of Improper Watering
| Symptom | Likely Issue |
|---|---|
| Yellowing leaves | Overwatering |
| Browning tips | Underwatering or dry indoor air |
| Mold or fungus | Excess moisture and poor airflow |
Fertilizing Best Practices
- Use a diluted, all-purpose liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring through early fall)
- Avoid fertilizing most species during their dormant winter period
Pruning for Fullness & Health
Pruning isn’t just about appearance—it encourages fuller, more vigorous plants and prevents legginess.
Basic Pruning Tips
- Use clean, sharp shears to avoid plant damage or infection
- Trim just above leaf nodes to stimulate new growth
- Avoid removing more than 25% of the plant at one time
Propagation Bonus
Many trailing plants like pothos can be propagated from cuttings. Place trimmed stems in water until roots develop, then pot in fresh soil for a new plant.
Display Inspiration
Displaying these plants creatively boosts your decor while giving them proper growing conditions. Here are a few ideas:
- Office accent walls: Use wall-mounted pockets or grids for hanging greenery
- Kitchen shelves: Let vines dangle over open shelving for a softening effect
- Window frames: Hang baskets near bright, indirect light sources
- Café settings: Rows of macrame plant hangers or corner wall units add cozy charm
Tips for Styling
- Mix leaf textures and shades (e.g., dark green Pothos with variegated Tradescantia)
- Avoid crowding too many species together—give each plant air and light access
- Use stools or benches below plants to catch any dropped leaves or excess water
Beginner’s Picks
If you’re just getting started, these three plants are reliable and low-maintenance:
- Pothos: Thrives in nearly any light, nearly impossible to kill
- Spider Plant: Hardy and quick-growing with fun baby “pups”
- Heartleaf Philodendron: Elegant and easy-going
Troubleshooting Guide
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Yellowing leaves | Too much water or low light | Reduce watering, move to brighter spot |
| Moldy soil | Poor drainage or overwatering | Use well-draining mix, allow soil to dry between waterings |
| Stunted growth | Lack of nutrients | Apply balanced fertilizer monthly |
How to Build This in Make.com
Set up an automation in Make.com to remind yourself (or teammates) to water and fertilize hanging plants based on custom schedules.
- Start a new scenario in Make.com
- Add Google Calendar module: “Watch Events” for plant care dates
- Add Filter: Only include titles like “Water Plants” or “Fertilize Plants”
- Add Slack module: “Send Message” to notify responsible person or team
- Set scheduling: Every morning, check calendar and notify
Conclusion
Hanging and trailing plants allow you to enhance home or commercial interiors vertically—without sacrificing any floor area. The key is to choose plants suited to your light and humidity conditions, use well-draining pots and secure mounts, water consistently, and prune for fullness.
Start small, learn what thrives in your environment, and let your greenery grow with you!
Want help choosing the right plant for your space? Visit our full Houseplant Types & Selection guide.
