Hanging planters lined with coconut liner and similarly flexible substrate material allow gardeners to insert plants upside down. This creates a lush, trailing arrangement which provides a different look from the traditional upright hanging planter. Certain plants, especially those with trailing branches or vines, are better suited for upside-down planting than others.
Unlike bush tomatoes, which usually grow only to a height of 3 or 4 feet, vine tomatoes form long and lanky branches and can reach a height of up to 8 feet---perfect for planting upside down from the ceiling. Example vine cultivars include the Beefmaster, Better Boy and Sweet 100. These are beefsteak, globe and cherry tomatoes, respectively. When hung upside down, picking the free-falling tomato vines' fruit is easy.
Nasturtiums not only create loose tendrils that reach a length of up to 5 feet, but they also produce large numbers of bright orange, red and yellow flowers. The entire plant is edible and a spicy addition to a garden salad. The flower plant's sun-loving nature and low water needs makes it ideal for hanging planters in full sunlight.
Strictly ornamental, the cool-colored flowers and lush foliage of these sweet-smelling flower plants add splashes of color to any upside-down plant arrangement. Several varieties of trailing begonias are available from garden stores and mail-order nurseries.
Ornamental Sweet Potato
The sweet potato vine is grown for its glossy foliage and easy maintenance. It can be an ideal candidate for the center of your upside-down arrangement as a backdrop for flower plants. You can let the plant grow freely in thin, long tendrils, or pinch the ends of the vines once they reach a desired hanging length to encourage a bushier look.
Ornamental ivies are popular for their quick growth and the iconic color patterns on their leaves. Example cultivars include the Melanie ivy and the Midas Touch ivy. Ivies may overwhelm your hanging arrangement due to their rapid growth and should be monitored carefully and trimmed back as needed.