How to Plant and Grow in Cocomoss

Austram originated the combination of container gardening with 100% organic, woven coconut fiber in 1982. We are the originators of the woven cocomoss.  All of our metal planters are hand welded and zinc plated for durability, and a UV inhibitor is added to our powder coat finishes for maximum rust resistance.  We offer many different and unique designs in which to choose—from the basic to the exotic.  All you need to do now is buy the right ingredients and add you tender loving care... but how?

A very general outline follows, but we do recommend that you consult with your garden center professional for local advice.

Tips for growing in Austram

1.  Choose the location for the planter.  Keep in mind that excess water is meant to exit the bottom of the planter.

2.  Choose the size and type of planter to fit your needs.  The most popular size is the 14” diameter hanging planter, but the bigger the planter, the more moisture will be retained in the soil.  This will also allow for growth of your plants.

3.  Choose the plants.  Consider the amount of sunlight your area will receive.  Sunny areas are those that receive 4 or more hours of direct sunlight a day.  The more direct sunlight that sun loving plants get, the faster they grow, the stronger they become, the more abundantly they flower, the more water they require.

Shady areas are those that receive less than 4 hours of direct sunlight per day, spots that receive diffused or indirect light.  Even in a partially shaded location, the brighter the light, the more abundant the flowers.

4.  Choose your color.  Plantings have color themes of either contrasting or complimentary colors.  An example of contrasting colors are red, blue, yellow.  An example of complimentary colors are pink, rose, white.  In contrasting colors, limit yourself to 2 to 4 colors.  When one of these colors is white, the planter stands out in shady areas or with night lighting.

5.  Choose your plant varieties.  Select varieties that provide continuous blooms.  Remember to allow room for growth of your plants.

Planting your Austram Planter

1.  When planting a combination basket, consider using 4 different growth rates in your plants.  By using plants from each grouping, you will create a layering effect that results in a lush fullness as the plants mature.

Center plants are upright plants that are placed in the center of the basket.

Filler plants are compact and spreading.  Place these around the center plant(s).

Corner plants have trailing or outward growth.  Plant these in the corners or around the edge of the planter.

Edge plants mound or trail over the sides complimenting the corner plants.

2.  Choose the soil.  Use a quality, porous soil with a reliable nutrient content.

3.  WATER, WATER, WATER--Austram planters do not retain moisture (which creates root rot), so water well and often.

4.  Fertilize-- Add to the soil at planting time with a slow release which feeds for 23 months, or use a water soluble every 2 weeks or so through the growing season.

5.  Accessorize--Baskets are heavy when planted and watered, so be sure to choose a quality bracket or hook for your planter.  Austram accessories are designed to support our baskets.  Ask your garden center for Austram accessories.

6.  Regular grooming keeps the basket looking picture perfect.  Remove faded blooms and yellowing leaves.  This will allow for more blooms to develop.

7.  ENJOY--Relax and enjoy your creation.