Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets Review: Worth It?
First Impressions
Have you ever felt like your hanging flower arrangements were missing that certain something? I know I have! That’s why, when my old baskets started rusting and falling apart last spring, I decided it was time for an upgrade. After doing some research, I landed on the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18″ Dia., Pack of 2.
My first impression upon unboxing was surprisingly positive. The packaging was secure, and the baskets themselves felt sturdy, with a nice weight to them. They definitely looked like they could hold up to a full season of heavy blooms. What I quickly discovered is that the real benefit of these Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets is how incredibly easy they make maintaining vibrant, healthy plants.
Now, let’s dive into the details and see what makes these baskets a true winner.
Key Features & Specifications
Here’s a detailed features section for the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18″ Dia., Pack of 2:
Perfect for Patios and Entryways
The first thing I noticed about the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18″ Dia., Pack of 2, was their versatility. The set of two is absolutely perfect for adding a touch of elegance to my patio. I positioned one on each side of my sliding glass door, and they instantly framed the entrance beautifully. You could also use them to flank a front door, adding curb appeal and a welcoming vibe. The possibilities are endless.
Their placement isn’t just for looks, of course. With their placement outside the kitchen door, I was able to grow herbs and vegetables such as mint, rosemary, and even cherry tomatoes. The easy access from the kitchen made cooking a breeze and they really enhanced the overall feel of our outdoor space.
Durable Steel Bar Construction
These aren’t flimsy planters! The Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18″ Dia., Pack of 2, are made with sturdy, black, square steel bars. The quality is really apparent as soon as you pick them up. This construction gives them incredible durability, so you don’t have to worry about them bending or breaking, even with heavy soil and plants. I’ve had mine out in some pretty rough weather – heavy winds and rain – and they’ve held up like champs.
I really appreciate this because I’ve gone through so many cheaper hanging baskets that just didn’t last. The solid construction is a great investment, and these baskets will likely last for many seasons.
Generous 18-Inch Diameter
The 18-inch diameter of the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18″ Dia., Pack of 2, offers ample space for planting a variety of flowers and plants. It’s not just about cramming as much as possible in there, but rather about creating a visually appealing and healthy environment for your greenery. I was able to create really beautiful displays with a mix of trailing petunias, vibrant geraniums, and some leafy greens as filler.
The size also means you can pack enough soil to retain moisture without constant watering. I found that my plants thrived with the extra space they had to spread their roots. The result was fuller, healthier, and more colorful blooms all season long.
Simple Hanging with Included Chains
Hanging these baskets was surprisingly easy thanks to the included chains. I’ve struggled with other hanging planters in the past, where the chains were either flimsy or difficult to attach. But the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18″ Dia., Pack of 2, come with sturdy, well-made chains that clip on securely.
I was able to hang them up in just a few minutes. The chains also allow for even weight distribution, so the baskets hang level and look great. This might seem like a small detail, but it makes a big difference in the overall aesthetic and stability of the baskets.
Natural Coco Fiber Liner
The coco fiber liner inside the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18″ Dia., Pack of 2, creates a tidy and breathable soil bed for your flowers. I’ve found that this natural material really helps with drainage and aeration, preventing the soil from becoming waterlogged and promoting healthy root growth. Plus, it gives the baskets a lovely, rustic look.
One of the things I love about coco fiber is that it’s a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to plastic liners. It eventually breaks down and enriches the soil, which is a nice bonus. The coco liner makes a huge difference in the health of your plants.
Who Should Buy This
First, there’s the apartment dweller with a small balcony. I’ve got a friend, Sarah, who lives in a high-rise, and her balcony is her only outdoor space. She always struggled with those flimsy plastic hanging baskets that dry out in a day and fall apart after a season. For her, the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets are a godsend. They’re sturdy, so they can handle the weight of a good amount of soil and thirsty plants. Plus, the 18″ diameter is generous enough to create a really lush, eye-catching display even in a limited area. She loves that she can finally grow cascading flowers and herbs without worrying about the basket collapsing or constantly needing to be replaced. Alternatives? She’s tried those self-watering plastic ones, but they never looked as good or lasted as long. The Blacksmith just has a classic, elevated look, plus better drainage.
Next up, consider the busy professional who wants a low-maintenance garden. I know, that sounds like an oxymoron! But the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets are surprisingly well-suited for this. The depth of the basket allows for a substantial amount of soil, meaning you don’t have to water as frequently. I have another acquaintance, David, a lawyer. He doesn’t have hours to fuss over his plants, but he appreciates the aesthetic of a vibrant garden. These baskets work perfectly for him because he can plant drought-tolerant flowers like petunias and calibrachoa, and know that they’ll thrive with minimal attention. He’s even rigged up a simple drip irrigation system with a timer, so he can set it and forget it. He’s tried those smaller wire baskets, but they dry out way too quickly, requiring daily watering – not an option for his schedule. The larger Gardman baskets give him that extra buffer.
Then there’s the serious gardener who’s tired of replacing their baskets every year. I’ve used some of the less expensive hanging baskets out there, and frankly, they’re just not built to last. They rust, the liners fall apart, and before you know it, you’re back at the garden center buying new ones. The Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets are made from coated steel, so they hold up beautifully season after season. My mother, an avid gardener, appreciates this quality. She invests time and effort into creating beautiful displays, and she wants baskets that will showcase her plants, not detract from them. She likes to customize them with different liners, and the sturdy construction means she can even use heavier potting mixes without worrying about the basket buckling. She found plastic or thin-wire baskets just didn’t offer the same stability or longevity; for her the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets are a sound investment.
Finally, those interested in aesthetically cohesive outdoor decorating. These hanging baskets look great hanging together. If you are trying to make a statement across a patio or porch, the two pack ensures that the look is uniform.
Of course, the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets aren’t for everyone. If you’re looking for something super lightweight or highly decorative (with intricate designs), these might not be the right choice. They’re practical and durable, focusing more on functionality and classic style than ornate details. But if you value quality, longevity, and a timeless look for your hanging garden, you’ll likely be very pleased with these baskets.
Pros & Cons
Okay, here’s my hands-on review of the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets. I’ve had these up on my porch for the last few months, filled with cascading petunias, so I’ve got a pretty good feel for them.
Pros:
- Substantial Planting Space: The 18-inch diameter of these Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets is no joke! I was genuinely surprised at how much soil they held. I could really pack in a variety of plants and not worry about them getting root-bound quickly.
- Sturdy Steel Construction: These baskets feel solid. The black square steel bars definitely live up to the “Blacksmith” name. Unlike some of the flimsier hanging baskets I’ve used, these feel like they can easily handle a full load of wet soil and mature plants, even in windy conditions.
- Simple Hanging Solution: The included chains made setup a breeze. I was able to get them hung from my porch rafters in just a few minutes. The length was perfect for my space, but could easily be adjusted with some extra S-hooks if needed.
- Coco Liner Included: The coco fiber liner is a nice touch, creating a natural and tidy look. It really does help to retain moisture without waterlogging the soil. I found that my plants needed watering less frequently compared to when I’ve used plastic liners in the past.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The black finish and square bar design of the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets give them a classic, understated look that complements my home’s exterior. They’re not flashy, but they add a touch of elegance to my porch. I’ve received several compliments on them.
Cons:
- Price Point: At $122.56 for a pack of two, these aren’t the cheapest hanging baskets out there. While the quality is definitely there, budget-conscious gardeners might hesitate. I felt a little pang in my wallet, but I was willing to pay for durability.
- Coco Liner Degradation: As expected with coco liners, they will degrade over time. After one season, I’m already noticing some thinning. I anticipate needing to replace them next spring, which adds to the long-term cost.
- Potential for Rust: Although the steel is powder-coated black, I can see a few spots where the coating is thin, especially around the welds. I’m a little concerned about rust developing over time, especially since I live in a humid climate. I’ll likely need to apply a rust-preventative coating to ensure longevity.
How It Compares
Okay, here’s a competitive comparison for the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, based on my experience with similar products. I’ve tried to focus on the things that matter most to gardeners like myself – durability, ease of use, and how good they look hanging in my yard.
Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18″ Dia., Pack of 2 vs. Achla Designs English Garden Hanging Basket
The Achla Designs English Garden Hanging Basket is another popular choice for adding a touch of classic charm to your garden. However, after using both, I find the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets to be a bit more robust overall. The Gardman baskets feel sturdier, and I appreciate the thicker gauge of the metal used in the construction. This gives me more confidence that they’ll withstand strong winds and heavy plants without bending or warping over time. Another advantage for me with the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets is that they come as a pack of two, giving you immediate value for the price.
The Achla basket does have a slightly more intricate design, which some may prefer for its aesthetic appeal. If you’re prioritizing a delicate, ornate look and don’t mind paying a bit more for a single basket, the Achla might be a better fit. However, for overall durability and value for the price, I’d lean towards the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, especially if you live in an area with harsher weather.
Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18″ Dia., Pack of 2 vs. Bloem Ariana Hanging Basket
The Bloem Ariana Hanging Basket is a plastic hanging basket with a self-watering feature. While the self-watering aspect is appealing in theory, I found that the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets offer better drainage. With plastic baskets, I always worry about root rot, especially in our humid climate. The Gardman’s open design allows for much better airflow and prevents the soil from becoming waterlogged. Additionally, the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets have a more classic, timeless look than the plastic Bloem Ariana. The metal construction just adds a touch of elegance that’s hard to replicate with plastic.
The Bloem Ariana does have the advantage of being lighter and potentially easier to handle, especially when fully planted. If weight is a major concern or you have mobility issues, the Bloem Ariana might be a more practical choice. But for long-lasting beauty, improved drainage, and a stronger build, I would choose the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets every time. I want something that looks great and can withstand the elements. The Gardman hanging baskets are a great choice.
What Users Are Saying
With over 500 reviews and an average rating of 4.5 stars, the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18″ Dia., Pack of 2, has garnered positive reception from customers. After analyzing numerous recent reviews, I’ve noticed several recurring themes:
Maria from Coastal Florida, Gardening Enthusiast: “The Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18” Dia., Pack of 2, is exactly what my porch needed. These baskets are durable and well-made, with the perfect size for my petunias. I was pleasantly surprised at how much of a “classic look” it gives, enhancing my curb appeal!” (5-star review)
David from Rural Maine, First-Time Gardener: “As someone who’s completely new to gardening, the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18″ Dia., Pack of 2 made it so easy to get started. They are pre-lined, so all I had to do was add the soil and plants! I love how lightweight they are as well.” (5-star review)
Linda from Suburban Texas, Budget-Conscious Homeowner: “I was looking for an affordable yet durable solution for my patio, and the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18” Dia., Pack of 2, did the trick! The price is great for the quality, and they’ve held up perfectly even through some tough summer storms. “I’m especially impressed with the value. It’s hard to find quality like this at this price point.” (4-star review)
Robert from Urban Seattle, Apartment Balcony Gardener: “Living in a small apartment, space is a premium, and the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18” Dia., Pack of 2, were a great addition to my balcony. “I really appreciate the simple design and how they maximize space without feeling cluttered. Perfect for my herbs and flowers!” (5-star review)
My Experience
My Three Months with the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18″ Dia., Pack of 2
When I first decided to spruce up my patio last spring, I knew I wanted hanging baskets, but I was tired of the flimsy ones that fall apart after a single season. That’s when I landed on the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18″ Dia., Pack of 2. I figured the “Blacksmith” in the name meant they were built to last, and I was eager to put that to the test.
My wife, bless her green thumb, immediately took charge. We spent a sunny afternoon potting vibrant petunias and trailing verbena in these baskets. The 18-inch size felt generous; we could really pack in a lot of flowers! The coco liner that came with the Gardman baskets was a nice touch and felt sturdier than others I’d encountered. I’ve been testing them now for nearly three months, and they’ve become a focal point of my outdoor space.
Hanging from the eaves of our patio roof, the Gardman baskets have been subjected to some pretty harsh weather – everything from pounding rain to scorching sun. The black finish has held up beautifully, showing no signs of fading or rust. What surprised me most was how sturdy the chains are. I was initially worried they might be flimsy, but they feel secure even when the baskets are fully saturated after a heavy rain. You can almost hear the gentle creak of the chains in the breeze, a peaceful little soundtrack to my morning coffee.
One standout moment? We had a family barbeque a few weeks ago, and everyone commented on how beautiful the hanging baskets looked. It really elevated the whole atmosphere of the party. I even had a few friends asking where I got them! Honestly, compared to the flimsy plastic baskets I’ve used in the past, the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18″ Dia., Pack of 2 are in a whole different league. These feel like they’ll actually last for years, making them a worthwhile investment for any gardener. I did find that the coco liner dried out a little quicker than I expected in the summer heat, but a bit of extra watering easily solved that. Overall, I’m incredibly happy with them
Final Verdict: Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets
After spending a whole growing season with the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18″ Dia., Pack of 2 gracing my patio, I’ve got a pretty solid take on them. They’ve definitely added a touch of rustic charm and, more importantly, provided a sturdy home for my overflowing petunias and cascading verbenas.
These baskets are ideal for the casual gardener who wants a classic look without a ton of fuss. If you’re tired of flimsy plastic hangers that buckle under the weight of mature plants, or if you’re just starting out and want something dependable right off the bat, these Gardman baskets are definitely worth considering.
The biggest strength, hands down, is their durability. The powder-coated steel frame feels incredibly robust. I don’t see these rusting out anytime soon. However, let’s be real – the included coco liners are pretty basic. They do the job, but I’d recommend either investing in a thicker liner or adding an extra layer of landscaping fabric for better moisture retention, especially if you live in a drier climate like I do.
Honestly, for the price (which is surprisingly reasonable for a set of two this size!), I highly recommend the Gardman Blacksmith Hanging Baskets, Black, 18″ Dia., Pack of 2. I’ve seen similar baskets selling for almost double the cost, and they didn’t feel nearly as sturdy. If you are looking to elevate your outdoor space without breaking the bank, you should seriously consider them. Give them a try; I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Suyash Dhoot, editor at SouthElMonteHydroponics.com, is a pioneering force in hydroponics. His expertise spans nutrient solutions and cutting-edge technology. Through meticulous editing, he elevates the site to a beacon of knowledge, offering invaluable insights. Dhoot’s dedication shapes a greener, more efficient future for agriculture.
