When it comes to creating a beautiful and bountiful window box garden, selecting the ideal holder is key. The right window box and mounting system allows you to maximize the limited space and reap the benefits of colorful blooms or fresh herbs and veggies. Here are some top tips for choosing window boxes and holders that will help your plants thrive.

Select Ideal Length, Width, Depths For Window Boxes

Window boxes come in a variety of lengths, depths and widths. Consider the size of your window when selecting a box. Standard lengths are usually 18-24 inches, but 30-36 inch boxes work well for larger windows. Depth should be at least 6 inches for adequate root space. Width depends on your specific needs and window size, but 8-12 inches is common.

Match Window Box Style to Architecture

Complement your home’s architecture and style with an appropriate window box. For example, ornate vintage boxes for Victorian homes or sleek modern planters for contemporary spaces. Consider material and color as well that fits your aesthetic.

Allow For Proper Drainage

Make sure your window boxes and holders allow for drainage holes in the bottom to prevent soggy soil and root rot issues. Some self-watering window boxes feature built-in water reservoirs to help maintain moisture levels without getting too wet.

Consider Material Like Galvanized Metal, Plastic, Wood

Window boxes come in a variety of materials such as weather-resistant woods like cedar, pine or redwood. Durable plastics like polyethylene don’t rot. Or choose galvanized metal boxes and holders designed to withstand outdoor elements. Consider longevity, maintenance needs, and visual appeal.

Weight of Soil And Plants

Factor in the weight of soil, water and plants when selecting window box planters. Plastic and galvanized steel can handle heavy loads better than wood. Make sure brackets and hooks are rated for sufficient weight capacity.

Convenience and Cost

Plastic and metal window boxes are typically more affordable than wood varieties. Plastic may be lightweight and easy to install. While wood offers a classic look. Determine what’s most convenient and cost-effective for your specific needs and budget.

Mount Securely With Sturdy Brackets, Hooks, Shelves

Properly mounting your window boxes is critical for both safety and success. Sturdy galvanized steel or aluminum brackets designed specifically for window boxes provide safe, secure support. Individual hooks or hanging rods also work. For smaller boxes, mounted window box shelves or ledges simplify installation.

Position For Optimal Sunlight

Mount window boxes in locations that will receive maximum sunlight – at least 6 hours per day. Flowering plants and vegetables need sun to thrive. East or west facing locations are ideal for ample light.

Allow For Water Overflow

Make sure window boxes are mounted so excess water can drain safely away from windows, walls and foundations. This prevents water damage to structures while still accommodating overflow.

Choose Drainage Method – Holes, Trays, Reservoirs

Proper drainage prevents wet soil and root rot. Built-in drainage holes in window boxes are essential for water to flow out. Plastic trays or liners can catch excess moisture while elevating plants above waterline. Self-watering window boxes feature water reservoirs to evenly distribute moisture.

Match Plants’ Watering Needs

Consider matching drainage method to the watering needs of your specific plants. For example, tomatoes require consistent moisture, so a reservoir system may be ideal. Succulents prefer drier soil, so drainage holes without reservoirs work better.

Prevent Dripping on Windows and Walls

Select a drainage method that directs water away from siding, windows and foundations. Avoid constant moisture on structures. Drainage spikes can divert water flow out and away from the house.

Use Soil, Fertilizer Suited For Container Gardening

The right potting mix makes all the difference for window boxes. Use a quality soil blend designed specifically for containers, not heavy garden soil. The mix should be lightweight, fast-draining, and nutrient-rich to support plants in a limited space.

Regular Feeding

Container plants need more frequent fertilization than in-ground gardens. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every couple weeks according to product instructions to replenish nutrients.

Moisture Absorbing Polymers

Consider mixing moisture absorbing polymers like polyacrylamide crystals into the soil mix. This helps retain water and nutrients longer between waterings.

Pick Sun Loving Flowers, Herbs, Veggies For Window Boxes

Selecting the right plants is key to creating a thriving window box garden. Choose varieties that need full sun and tolerates heat, like petunias, marigolds, geraniums, and many herbs. For edibles, opt for compact tomato, peppers, bush beans, or radish.

Factor in Mature Size

Review mature size for plants and allow adequate space. Avoid crowding as plants grow. Taller flowers in back, short in front creates a layered look.

Include Trailing Varieties

Incorporate trailing plants with cascading stems to soften edges and maximize space. Sweet potato vine, creeping Jenny, and ivy spill beautifully over sides.

Arrange Heights, Colors, Textures For Pleasing Look

A thoughtfully arranged window box has visual appeal and balanced composition. Combine plants of different heights, colors, and textures for interest. Place taller anchors in back, trailing plants in front.

Repeat Colors

Repeating and complementing colors creates a cohesive look. For example, groupings of purple and yellow blooms. Varied foliage textures like feathery ferns contrast bold leaves.

Focal Points

Use striking plants like colorful coleus or unique herbs as focal points to draw the eye. Dramatic contrasts also grab attention, like silvery foliage against dark green.

Water Regularly But Avoid Overwatering Plants

Consistent watering is crucial for container plants. Check soil moisture daily and water when top few inches become dry. Early morning irrigation allows plants to absorb moisture before hot sun. Overwatering can be just as damaging as underwatering.

Soil, Weather, Plant Factors

Consider soil type, weather conditions, and types of plants when establishing watering schedule. For instance, sandy mixes need more frequent watering than moisture retaining amended soils. Adjust as needed.

Self-Watering Options

Self-watering window boxes with built-in reservoirs require less frequent irrigation. Drip irrigation systems also help maintain optimal moisture levels for container plantings.

Deadhead Faded Flowers, Prune Overgrown Foliage

Regular deadheading and pruning keeps window boxes looking their best. Remove spent blooms to encourage new flowers. Cut back gangly growth to improve air circulation and light penetration.

Clean Up Foliage

Trim off yellow, wilted leaves and foliage. This improves overall appearance and plant health. Prevent pests and diseases by removing debris.

Pinch Back Stems

Pinching off tip growth promotes bushier, compact plants versus leggy excess growth. Pinching also delays flowering for continuous bloom.

Following these key tips and tricks for selecting ideal window boxes, mounting them securely, and caring for the plants will lead to a gorgeous floral display. Proper planting, watering, and maintenance keeps your window box garden thriving with beauty all season long.

When creating a stunning window box display, one of the most important choices is selecting the right material for the boxes and holders. The material affects durability, longevity, appearance and maintenance. Here are some top options to consider for your window boxes to help keep plants thriving season after season.

Consider Material Like Galvanized Metal, Plastic, Wood

Today’s window boxes come in a variety of materials, each with their own advantages and considerations. Three of the most popular choices are galvanized metal, plastic, and wood.

Galvanized Steel Boxes

Galvanized steel is a great option for window boxes and holders. The galvanized coating helps prevent rust and corrosion, even in wet conditions. Steel boxes are very strong, durable and weather-resistant. They tend to be lightweight for easy mounting yet can support heavy soil, plants and water without sagging. Galvanized steel window boxes can last for many years with minimal maintenance required.

Plastic Window Boxes

Plastic is another common material for modern window boxes. Options like polyethylene plastic are lightweight, making installation a breeze. Plastic boxes also won’t rot or decay like wood can. They resist cracking and last for years outdoors. Plastic window boxes come in many designer colors to match your home. The material is affordable and requires little upkeep. Just watch for potential fading over time.

The Traditional Wood Box

Wood remains a classic choice loved for its traditional decorative charm and natural beauty. Redwood and cedar are naturally resistant to rot and insect damage. With proper treatment and sealing, wood can endure seasons outside. But it does require more maintenance like re-staining periodically. Wood also can warp or crack over years. Yet its timeless appeal keeps wood a popular window box option.

Matching Box Material to Architecture

Consider complementing your home’s existing aesthetics when selecting window box materials. For instance, metal boxes pair nicely with contemporary houses while wood exudes that cottage charm. Let your personal style inspire your choice.

Comparing Durability and Costs

Factor in durability and lifespan when weighing material options. Generally plastic and galvanized steel last longer than untreated wood before needing replacement. They also tend to be the more economical choices. But don’t rule out wood just yet, especially for a classic detailed look.

The material you choose for window boxes and holders impacts your planting options, maintenance needs, and overall curb appeal. Consider galvanized steel, plastic or wood based on climate, expected longevity, weight needs, and visual style preferences. Select wisely and your window boxes will thrive for many seasons!

Mount Securely With Sturdy Brackets, Hooks, Shelves

Decorating your home with beautiful plants and flowers can be an extremely rewarding hobby. But if you want to get the most out of your floral displays, especially in a window box or planter, it’s crucial to mount and secure them properly. A sturdy foundation allows your plants to thrive and prevents accidents. Follow these 7 tips to safely and securely mount your window boxes, planters, shelves, and racks this season.

1. Choose High-Quality Brackets

The brackets you select to mount your window boxes will make all the difference. Look for heavy-duty steel or cast iron that can support the total weight. Measure the width of your boxes first to ensure a perfect fit. Brackets approximately 6 inches wide on each side tend to work well for standard window boxes. Make sure any decorative finishes are protected from moisture and rust resistant.

2. Opt for Permanent Installation

For the most secure foundation, permanently installing brackets directly into the wall or sill is ideal. This may require some drilling or masonry work, so consider hiring a professional if you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself. Lag bolts screwed deep into studs or masonry anchors cemented into brick or concrete will keep your brackets sturdy and immovable for years.

3. Reinforce With Right-Angle Brackets

Right-angle brackets provide extra reinforcement when permanently installing window box brackets. Use them to anchor the brackets to the wall at a 90-degree angle. Position them high enough so your window box will hang below. This added support helps distribute the weight and withstand inevitable jostling and weather elements.

4. Use Railing Hooks Properly

Railing planter hooks offer a quick and easy way to hang baskets and boxes on balconies. But it’s important to use them correctly to prevent accidents. Opt for large, bolted hooks rather than smaller hooks that simply hook over the railing. Distribute the weight across multiple hooks. And make sure your railing is securely installed into the building structure to begin with.

5. Select Durable Shelving

Wall-mounted shelves are great for displaying potted plants. For durability, choose brackets and shelving made of wrought iron, steel, or solid wood. The shelf material should be at least 3/4 inches thick to prevent sagging. Measure the area first and buy shelves that will fit properly between brackets. This prevents sagging and allows weight distribution across the entire shelf.

6. Use Appropriate Hardware

Always use mounting hardware that is designed for the material you’re installing into. Plastic anchors don’t provide enough strength for heavy window boxes, for example. Instead use expanding masonry anchors for concrete or brick. For wood studs, use exterior-rated screws that are long enough to penetrate at least 1 inch into the studs. Following manufacturer instructions for drilling pilot holes and avoiding cracking/splintering.

7. Check Condition Frequently

Once your window boxes, planters, shelves and brackets are securely installed, don’t just set it and forget it. Make it part of your regular maintenance to check for signs of loosening, corrosion, cracks, or other deterioration. Periodically inspect where brackets meet the wall or sill. Refasten any loose screws or bolts. Address any issues immediately to prevent accidents and keep your plants safe.

With the right hardware and some basic DIY skills, you can mount window boxes and shelves for plants that are both beautiful and secure. Choose brackets and hooks sturdy enough for the load, reinforce with right-angle brackets, use durable shelf material, and employ appropriate mounting hardware for the surface. Follow these tips and your floral displays will thrive safely this season.

Choose Drainage Method – Holes, Trays, Reservoirs

Proper drainage is one of the most critical elements for healthy plants in containers and window boxes. Without an effective way to drain excess water, roots suffocate and plants suffer. As you set up your boxes and planters this season, give drainage some strategic thought. Holes, trays, and reservoirs all have pros and cons to consider.

Drill Drainage Holes

Drilling several holes directly in the bottom of a window box provides the most basic drainage. This traditional method allows excess water to quickly flow out. But it can also lead to messy drips on walls or windows below. Plus you lose some control – during heavy rain, the box may drain too quickly and not retain enough moisture.

Insert a Drainage Tray

Lining your window box with an interior drainage tray helps control water flow while protecting walls and windows from drips. Look for trays made from plastic, recycled composites, or other non-degrading materials. Make sure the tray fits snugly and covers any existing holes. This creates a reservoir for excess water until it evaporates or you empty it.

Create a False Bottom

False bottoms create temporary reservoirs to hold extra water while elevating the soil above any holes. Set pavers, stones, or pebbles in the bottom before adding soil. The gap between the false bottom and real bottom provides drainage space. Just be sure the soil above doesn’t get so compacted that water can’t permeate down.

Use Absorbent Fillers

Mixing materials like perlite, vermiculite, pumice, or coconut coir into the soil improves drainage by creating air pockets for excess moisture to permeate down. Absorbent polymers that absorb then slowly release water are another option. Using fillers means you can get away with fewer holes.

Elevate With Pedestals

Elevating window boxes an inch or two above the bottom with blocks, bricks or plastic pedestals creates a drainage gap underneath. Excess water can drip out but air also circulates better. Just be sure the box is level and sturdy so it doesn’t tip.

Angle Box Downward

Installing window boxes on a very slight downward angle allows gravity to pull excess water toward the outer edge. Small blocks under the back edge easily creates this pitch. Just a 5 degree angle is enough for improved drainage. But go too steep and soil and plants can shift.

Use Multiple Methods

Combining drainage strategies often provides the best results. For example, drilling holes in the bottom then elevating boxes on pedestals. Or lining boxes with trays and using absorbent soil fillers. Experiment to see what works best for your specific conditions and preferences.

Providing an effective drainage system takes some strategic planning but is worth the effort for healthy window box plants. Holes, trays, false bottoms, soil fillers, elevation, and angled installation all help prevent excess moisture. Test different methods this season to control drainage and nourish your plants.

Use Soil, Fertilizer Suited For Container Gardening

The soil and fertilizer you use in window boxes and planters is different than what works best right in the ground. Container gardening has unique needs. Follow these tips to choose the right soil and fertilizer to help your plants thrive in boxes and pots.

Select Fast-Draining Soil

Since overwatering is a prime concern with containers, a fast-draining soil is essential. Look for mixes described as lightweight, moisture-wicking, or containing perlite, vermiculite, coco coir, or sand. You can make your own by mixing potting soil with compost and materials like perlite.

Add Organic Matter

While container soil needs to drain well, some moisture retention is still important. Adding compost, worm castings, or well-rotted manure provides organic matter to help hold a bit of water and nutrients. Aim for about 30% amendments mixed into potting soil.

Consider Soilless Mixes

Soilless potting mixes using ingredients like peat moss, perlite, vermiculite or coconut coir are common for containers. With no real soil, they are lightweight, drain exceptionally well and reduce potential diseases. But plants depend completely on you providing nutrients.

Fertilize At Planting

When first planting, incorporate a slow-release granular fertilizer into the soil mix according to label rates. This provides nutrients for the entire season. Organic options like compost teas or fish emulsion also work.

Use Targeted Container Fertilizers

Look for fertilizers specifically formulated for containers, hanging baskets and window boxes. They supply key nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium that may be deficient in soilless mixes. Controlled-release options work well.

Fertilize Weekly

In addition to fertilizing at planting, you’ll likely need weekly fertilizing to replenish nutrients that leach out with watering. Choose a diluted liquid fertilizer to apply by hand or through drip irrigation systems.

Watch for Nutrient Deficiencies

Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and other signs of trouble likely indicate a nutrient deficiency. Determine which element is lacking based on symptoms and amend the soil or use a fertilizer containing that nutrient.

Getting the soil and fertilizer right is crucial for thriving container plants. Fast-draining mixes, soil amendments, targeted fertilizers, and vigilant feeding keeps boxes lush. Experiment this season to find the optimal blends.

Pick Sun Loving Flowers, Herbs, Veggies For Window Boxes

One of the keys to success with window boxes is selecting plants that thrive in full sun. Positioned on the exterior of homes, window boxes get blasted with intense sunlight and heat. Pick flowers, herbs and veggies that love these conditions for maximum growth and blooms.

Marigolds

Cheerful marigolds are a quintessential window box flower. Available in a rainbow of colors, they bloom continuously in sun. French and African marigolds are both heat and drought tolerant once established.

Petunias

Few flowers can match the flower power of petunias in window boxes. Wave, milliflora and multiflora varieties spill beautifully. Choose heat tolerant, sun-loving supernovas and crazy tunias.

Geraniums

Classic zonal or ivy leaf geraniums are perfect for window boxes in full sun. They bloom profusely in every color except true blue. Deadheading spent blooms encourages more flowers.

Lavender

The delicate beauty and scent of lavender is a welcome addition to window boxes. English lavenders thrive in hot, alkaline soil and baking sun. They attract pollinators too.

Herbs

Rosemary, thyme, sage, oregano, parsley and basil all flourish in sunny window boxes. Plant them alone or combine for an edible mix. Be sure to water when dry.

Cherry Tomatoes

Small-fruited and determinate cherry tomatoes produce well in window boxes. Try varieties like Sun Gold, Sweet Million or Red Pearl. Keep them watered and fertilized.

Peppers

Compact pepper plants like hot peppers, sweet bell peppers and ornamental varieties are great for window boxes. Choose smaller cultivars and hot-weather types.

Lettuce

Leaf lettuces and salad greens thrive in partial sun windows. But heat-tolerant varieties like oak leaf, arugula, and New Zealand spinach grow in full sun boxes.

Maximize your window boxes this sunny season. Stick with proven winners like marigolds, geraniums, petunias, herbs and more that thrive in the hottest conditions.

Arrange Heighths, Colors, Textures For Pleasing Look

A beautiful window box garden requires more than just throwing together a random mix of plants. Take time to intentionally arrange your window boxes for a stunning aesthetic. Play with plant heights, colors and textures to create an appealing and polished look.

Go For Vertical Interest

A common mistake is planting everything at the same height. For more dimension, use trailing plants, taller upright plants, and medium growers. For example, have ivy spill over the edges, add tall snapdragons behind, and position primrose in front.

Use Focal Points

Draw the eye to specific points by using striking plants like bright geraniums, purple fountain grass or colorful coleus. Surround with lower growers. Or elevate desired focal plants on mini trellises or small pedestals.

Repeat Colors

Tie the arrangement together by repeating colors throughout. For example, go for a blue theme using salvia, lobelia, morning glories and pansies. Or repeat the use of contrasting colors like orange and purple.

Transition Colors

Transition between colors smoothly by choosing plants with similar or adjacent hues on the color wheel, like red, orange and yellow. This creates a cohesive blended effect.

Contrast Shapes

Pair plants with distinctly different foliage shapes and growth habits for added interest. Try spiky grasses with large broad hosta leaves. Or combine round cabbage with spindly fern fronds.

Mix Textures

Contrast glossy, smooth leaves like begonias with fuzzy lamb’s ear. Combine feathery ferns with succulents or herbs for varied visual textures and dimensional interest.

Consider Scent

Add fragrance to your window box with sweet alyssum, roses, lilies, lavender, lemon thyme and other scented plants.

With some planning and strategic plant choices, your window boxes can become a real work of art. Play designer to create stunning displays this season that stop passersby in their tracks.

Water Regularly But Avoid Overwatering Plants

Window box plants need consistent moisture but are also prone to overwatering. Mastering the right watering rhythm is key to preventing flooded roots or desiccated, stressed plants. Follow these tips to hydrate your window boxes perfectly.

Water In Morning

Water first thing in the morning so plants have a full day for foliage to dry out. This prevents disease. Avoid evening watering that leaves plants damp overnight.

Install Drip Irrigation

Automate watering with inexpensive drip irrigation kits. Timers and slow drips prevent overwatering and provide consistent moisture. You can also add water soluble fertilizer.

Use Soaker Hoses

Soaker hoses are another easy automation option. Lay the porous hoses along the boxes and plants get hydrated slowly without runoff waste.

Water Until Drainage

Water thoroughly until you see water draining from the bottom of boxes. This hydrates entire root zones. But don’t let plants sit in water.

Add Water Retention

Amend soil with materials like coir and gels that hold moisture longer so boxes don’t dry out as quickly between waterings.

Feel Soil Before Watering

Check soil moisture with your finger an inch below the surface before watering. Only water when the top layer feels dry. Overwatering leads to root rot.

Adjust for Weather and Plants

During hot, dry stretches plants need more frequent watering. Harvested veggie boxes may need daily moisture. Established plants are more drought tolerant.

Check For Wilting

Notice when leaves start to droop and wilt so you don’t miss signs of underwatering. Then saturate soil thoroughly.

Consistent moisture keeps window boxes lush, but too much water causes major issues. Master the right rhythm with tips like morning watering, irrigation systems, drainage checks and observations of soil and plants.

Deadhead Fade Flowers, Prune Overgrown Foliage

Window box gardening requires ongoing maintenance like deadheading spent blooms and pruning back overgrown plants. Stay on top of these tasks for optimal health and appearance. Here are some key tips for grooming your window boxes throughout the season.

Deadhead Flowers Weekly

Make weekly deadheading – removing faded flowers – a habit. This promotes more blooms. Snap off spent flowers on annuals and perennials. Cut back spent flower spikes on lavender and catmint.

Shear Back Leggy Annuals

Bushy growth slows and annuals get leggy mid-season. Give them a rejuvenating shear by cutting back extra-long stems and flower stalks by one third to one half.

Thin Overcrowded Seedlings

Newly sprouted veggies and flowers often emerge too thickly. Thin seedlings out for optimal growing room. Snip extra sprouts at soil level.

Pinch Back Herbs

Pinch or snip the top two sets of leaves on herbs to encourage bushy growth. Do this regularly on basil, oregano, parsley and more.

Stake Leggy Plants

Tall flowers and top-heavy plants need staking assistance. Install smaller stakes or cages when first planting to support maturing plants.

Cut Back Spent Veggies

As you harvest lettuce, kale, spinach and other quick-growing veggies, cut the spent plant entirely back to the soil to make room for new growth.

Remove Wilted Leaves and Stems

Promptly clip off any yellowed, wilted or rotten leaves and stems to prevent disease spread. Discard diseased plant material.

Staying on top of grooming keeps window boxes looking their best and plants productive. A little weekly pruning and deadheading goes a long way.

Overwinter Tender Plants Or Preserve With Straw, Burlap

As autumn settles in and temperatures start to drop, it’s time for gardeners to begin thinking about overwintering options for tender plants. Annuals, perennials, bulbs, and small shrubs that can’t withstand freezing temperatures will need some extra protection to make it through the winter months. Using insulating materials like straw and burlap can help shield plants from cold damage.

Straw and burlap make excellent overwintering mulches because they provide insulation while still allowing airflow. This prevents crown rot and other fungal diseases that can occur when plant crowns stay wet. Here are some tips for using straw and burlap to overwinter tender plants:

Clear Away Debris

Before mulching, clear away any fallen leaves, dead stems and debris from around the base of the plants. This prevents pests and diseases from overwintering in the mulch and attacking plants in spring.

Water Thoroughly

Give plants a thorough watering before applying protective mulch. Well hydrated plants better withstand freezing and thawing of the soil around their roots.

Add Mulch

Pile loose straw or burlap around the base of plants, up to 12 inches deep for more tender varieties. Leave some space open near the crown to allow airflow and prevent rotting. The mulch should completely cover any exposed roots or crowns.

Consider Wire Hoops

For large perennials or shrubs, insert wire hoops around the plants before mulching. This helps support the weight of heavy mulch and prevent it from compressing or collapsing onto the plants.

Check Moisture

Check the mulch regularly over the winter, especially after heavy rains or snow. Add additional material if the existing mulch becomes saturated or compacted.

Remove in Spring

When spring arrives, gradually remove the protective mulch from around recovering plants. Take care not to damage any new growth starting to emerge.

Provide Sun Exposure

After uncovering plants in spring, avoid shocking them by immediately exposing them to full sun. Allow them to adjust to sunlight gradually to prevent sun scald.

Assess Damage

evaluate plants for any dieback or winter damage once new growth resumes. Prune back dead sections as needed to stimulate vigorous regrowth.

Using these techniques, gardeners can successfully overwinter even very tender plants in cold winter climates. A thick blanket of straw or burlap maintains adequate insulation and humidity around plant crowns and roots. Just be sure to remove the mulch in early spring so plants can resume active growth.

For an even higher level of protection, consider adding a layer of greenhouse plastic over the straw or burlap. Some gardeners build small enclosures out of wood strips and plastic sheeting to create a sheltered microclimate around vulnerable plants. Just be sure not to seal them up completely – some airflow is still needed to prevent diseases.

Overwintering success depends on many factors like the plant variety, your climate conditions, and weather fluctuations. Pay close attention to your overwintered plants in late winter and early spring. Check for signs of life and be prepared to uncover plants as soon as they start sending up new growth. With the right overwintering methods, your tender plants can make it through the cold months and flourish again next season.