Summer hanging baskets are tricky to keep going through the winter because of the wind and cold, wet weather so many people empty out the old plants and soil and put away their hanging baskets in the autumn but there is an alternative to this.
Instead of planting baskets with delicate winter annuals why not try planting compact evergreen plants instead. Variegated sedge and bronze and purple-leafed ajuga will look amazing in a winter hanging basket and will last throughout the winter months.
To prevent the hanging baskets becoming waterlogged through the winter, use a porous liner such as a green fibrous synthetic one or several layers of plastic netting along with an open textured peat free compost or bark chippings.
When planting it is best to pack the plants in closely so that their root balls are touching which will give a much better display as the plants grow. Try using a variety of different shapes of hanging basket as there are many to choose from. Conical baskets look spectacular for Christmas when planted up with trailing ivy and small, variegated holly trees. Sprayed fir cones mounted on wire can be added to the baskets for a real Christmassy feel.