How to Plant Flowers in a Window Box

If you’re planning to plant a window box, there are a few things you’ll need to know. The size of the window box must be at least eight inches wide and deep. You can make your own box using 1-inch boards, and then secure it with galvanized or brass screws. For extra security, drill several holes for drainage. Plants will grow well in window boxes, provided they’re watered regularly.

Window boxes need bright natural light in order to grow well. Even in urban areas, supplemental lighting can help the plants survive the winter. The shorter days, drafts from open windows and low humidity from heating systems can all pose challenges to plants, including window boxes. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to make your window box an oasis during these winter months. Here are some easy steps to get you started! And good luck!

When planning a window box planting plan, choose hardy perennials. Begonia, phlox subulata, and petunias are hardy perennials that thrive in window boxes and can be used throughout the year. Plantings such as geraniums, coleus, and sweet potato vine are especially hardy in usda zones three through nine. If you’re in a shaded location, choose an inch-high plant that cascades over the edge of the window box.

The next thing you’ll need to decide when window boxes planting is which plants to use. Remember that your window box won’t be the same size as your other outdoor plants! Some plants will quickly outgrow their containers, while others will stay small and require more maintenance. When in doubt, ask your local nursery for suggestions. They’ll be able to help you decide which plants will fit your window box perfectly. But don’t forget to choose the right herb or flower, and you’ll be glad you did!

A few easy-care plants include the trailing petunias, the ethereal lobelia plant, and the licorice plant. While the latter two plants require weekly deadheading, trailing petunias require only minimal care. Mexican Fleabane, another easy-care perennial, has tiny starry white daisies. These flowers bloom for months and add an extra splash of color to your window box.

When you’re ready to plant your window box, be sure to invest in a liner. It’s important to ensure that the planter liners you choose have holes for drainage. The liners should also be able to be removed easily if you need to change the plants inside. If you don’t want to remove the flower box, you can always buy a new one. If you’re unsure of how to install a liner, you can use coco liners. However, be sure to buy a window box insert that fits the size of your plant trough.

When choosing what plants to plant in your window box, choose those that don’t need a lot of maintenance. Decide whether you want a bright show of color or a soft touch in a shady corner. A white plastic window box will allow the flowers to stand out, while the soil should fill about three inches below the top. An excellent choice for color in a window box is the Impatiens, a small flower with a beautiful display. Choose salmon, pink, or fuchsia colors for the most impact.