Top 10 Stunning Plants for Hanging Baskets

7. Nasturtium: The Edible Pop of Color I Never Knew I Needed

Let me tell you about nasturtium—because if you’re like me and used to think flowers were just for looking at, this little plant is going to blow your mind.

I first came across nasturtiums at a farmer’s market in Seattle when a vendor handed me a flower to taste. Edible? Really? But one bite later, and I was hooked—not just on the peppery flavor, but on the idea that something so pretty could also be snackable.

Fast forward to last spring, and I planted my very first nasturtiums in a hanging basket. And guess what? They became one of my favorite additions all season long.

Edible Flowers That Aren’t Just a Gimmick

Yes, nasturtiums have edible flowers—and leaves, and even seed pods! They’ve got a mild, peppery kick, kind of like arugula.

I started tossing the petals into salads, using them as garnish on charcuterie boards, and even pickling the seed pods like capers (okay, once… and it was weirdly good).

If you’re into food and drinks or love hosting friends for brunch, these are perfect for blending beauty and function without trying too hard.

They add such a fun, colorful twist—literally and figuratively—to any meal or gathering.

Easy Peasy, Even for Clumsy Gardeners Like Me

Here’s the best part: nasturtiums are self-seeding and easy to grow from seed, which means you don’t need a green thumb to get them thriving.

I literally threw some seeds into my basket in early spring and forgot about them. A few weeks later, vines were popping out like magic. No fancy fertilizer, no daily watering—just sun, soil, and a little patience.

And because they reseed themselves, I found a few surprise sprouts this year where I didn’t even plant them. Nature’s free gifts, folks.

Sun-Loving and Totally Low-Maintenance

Nasturtiums do best in well-drained soil and full sun, which made them perfect for my west-facing balcony that turns into a sauna by midday.

I paired mine with a few herbs like thyme and sage, and let me tell ya—it looked like something straight out of a home decor magazine.

They don’t like wet feet, so make sure your basket has good drainage. Don’t overwater them either—they’ll actually bloom better if the soil is on the drier side.

A Burst of Warmth in Any Space

One of the things I love most is how much personality nasturtiums bring. With their bold orange and yellow blooms, they instantly brighten up any setting.

Whether you’re decorating for a dinner party, spicing up your balcony, or just want a cheerful pop of color, nasturtiums deliver.

I even used them in a bridal shower bouquet once (shoutout to Pinterest) and got so many compliments. Who knew a flower that tastes like pepper could also look like a dream?

So if you’re someone who loves mixing style with substance—whether it’s through cooking, gardening, or event planning—nasturtiums should definitely be on your list.

Next up? We’re diving into sweet potato vine, that fast-growing foliage star that adds drama and depth to any basket. It’s seriously one of the easiest ways to level up your hanging garden. Ready to see what it can do? Click “next” below! 🌿