Most hanging baskets require some kind of liner. Without one, the gaps between the sticks would allow soil to fall straight through the bottom. That’s why most store-bought baskets use coconut fiber liners, moss liners, or plastic inserts to keep everything contained. But instead of buying one, she chose a much simpler solution. Leaves. Large leaves were gathered and carefully layered around the inside of the basket, overlapping slightly as they went.
One by one, they covered the bottom and sides, creating a natural barrier between the basket frame and the soil that would eventually be added. The idea was surprisingly effective. Not only did the leaves help keep the soil in place, but they also blended perfectly with the rustic appearance of the basket itself. Rather than looking like an added component, the liner felt like a natural extension of the design. And perhaps best of all, it cost absolutely nothing.
The entire basket was still being made from materials that could be gathered around most gardens and yards. By the time the last leaf had been tucked into place, the project looked remarkably complete. All that remained was filling it with soil and discovering whether the homemade basket could actually function as a real planter.