Expert: nick mccann - 5/3/2008

Question
I have a large east facing picture window in my living room that heats up from the sun every summer morning. I would like to plant and hang some nice looking containers from the eaves somewhat close together, maybe slightly staggered, to provide some shade from the heat. I will have a drip system to take care of the watering. Can you suggest some vines or trailing plants, as well as fillers that would be somewhat bushy to accent the container?

Answer
Hi Joan, I would start with any of the philodendron varieties, morning sun is perfect for them; then maybe add Pothos and a wandering Jew; I would fill in with maybe some geraniums, or your preferance of annuals (any of which will grow fine in these containers), just don't get carried away and put too many in, a few will go a long way as they get bigger and will add color. The good thing, is it is an east window, because a west window would cook these plants. Don't make the mistake of getting too small a hanging container, you will need the deeper root space for putting in more then one plant per container, and line the bottom with a little drainage material and use Miracle grows moisture retaining potting medium. :) good luck Nick