Making a window planter box is a fun and inexpensive way to add a splash of color to your home. Here are the steps to make a basic window planter box:
1. Choose a size. Window planter boxes range in size and can be selected to fit almost any window size. Generally speaking, planter boxes should be roughly six to eight inches taller than the window sill they are sitting on.
2. Select material. Popular materials for window planter boxes include wood, ceramic, rimu and composite. Consider selecting a material that is suitable for the environment in terms of temperature and weather patterns.
3. Prepare the frame. Constructing the box frame out of wood will give it extra strength and durability. Cut 4 pieces of your chosen material into equal length for the planter box frame. Connect the frame with wood screws and wood glue.
4. Paint or stain the planter box. Select a paint or stain which is conducive to the environment it will be exposed to. For example, outdoor planter boxes that will be exposed to most rain and harsh climates should be treated with a sealant to prevent rot.
5. Install the window planter box. Place the planter box outside the window sill and attach with nails or screws. Generally, two screws per side should hold it. Additionally, you can use galvanized washers to hold the screws in place.
6. Fill with soil. To keep the box sturdy, it is important to fill the planter box with a soil and fertilizer mix. Water the soil to make it moist before adding plants. Plant your chosen flowers, herbs or vegetables according to their size.
7. Water the plants. Depending on the size of the planter box and the environment for which it is installed, you may need to water the plants daily. Additionally, check the soil quality and make sure the plants have sufficient sunlight.
With some patience, skill and creativity you can make your own window planter box. Not only will it look lovely, but it will provide a place for you to watch nature in the comfort of your home.
How do you make a flower box under a window?
Making a flower box under a window is a great way to add a decorative touch to your home and make the window look more inviting and beautiful. Here are the steps to make a flower box under a window:
1. Measure the distance from the window sill to the ground. This will be the depth of the flower box.
2. Use pressure-treated wood, cedar, or composite material, to make the flower box. Cut the pieces for the sides, the floor, and the front according to your measurement.
3. Assemble the pieces using screws or nails.
4. Place the flower box underneath the window.
5. Line the flower box with landscaping fabric to prevent soil erosion, and then fill the flower box with soil.
6. Plant the flowers, herbs, or vegetables of your choice. Be sure to give them enough space to grow.
7. Water the plants and ensure that the soil is moist, but not soggy.
8. Mulch the flower box to help keep the soil moist and free of weeds.
You can now proudly enjoy your flower box under your window!
What do you put in the bottom of a window box?
The bottom of a window box should be lined with a plastic mat such as roofing paper or a heavy-duty plastic sheet. This will help protect the planter box and supports from water damage. Once the waterproof liner is in place, add enough potting soil to fill the box two-thirds of the way.
This will help provide ample space for roots to grow and absorb moisture. Make sure to mix in a slow-release fertilizer prior to adding the plants so they can start to draw nutrients from the potting soil.
After adding the plants, cover the roots with additional soil to secure them in place. Finally, top off the soil with a thin layer of mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
What is the wood to use for window boxes?
The best wood to use for window boxes is cedar. Cedar is a durable, rot-resistant wood that holds up well against the elements and does not require a lot of maintenance. It can also be painted or stained to match the house or desired aesthetic.
Cedar window boxes are also lightweight and easy to install. Other good woods to consider include redwood and cypress. These woods are also resistant to decay and will last longer than many other woods.
Pine and fir are not good choices because they are not as durable and will require more maintenance. Redwood or cedar have the advantage of not needing to be stained or painted as often, so if you want to keep the natural color of the wood, these two types are the best option.
How many plants should be in a window box?
The number of plants that should be in a window box really depends on the size of the box, the types of plants you want to use, and personal preference. Generally speaking, you should choose types of plants that will fit in the planter without them getting too crowded or root-bound.
Typically, three to four plants should look good in a window box that is around 14” long. If your window box is longer, then you may be able to get away with more plants. You’ll also want to consider the height of the plants – if you opt for taller plants such as petunias or verbena, you will likely only need two to three plants for a full look.
If you choose smaller plants, you may be able to squeeze in more. It is important to space the plants out to allow for adequate airflow and light absorption. That being said, there is no hard and fast rule when it comes to the number of plants in a window box – ultimately it is up to personal preference and the size of the box.
How much soil is needed for a window box?
The amount of soil required for a window box will depend on the size of the window box and the type of plants you are growing. A general estimate for a window box is between 2-3 cubic feet or 64-96 quarts.
You should take into consideration the space available and make sure to leave some extra room for root growth. If the soil is a mix of coco coir, vermiculite and peat moss then you should also add 5-10 gallons of compost to improve drainage and nutrient levels.
Additionally, you may want to top off the soil in the window box with a 1 inch layer of mulch to help with moisture retention and temperature regulation.
What is the timber for planter boxes?
The timber for planter boxes can vary depending on the desired size, budget, and desired level of durability. Cedar is a popular choice, as it is naturally rot-resistant, weather-proof and insect-resistant.
Pine is an economical choice but tends to be less durable than other woods. Redwood is also a great option, as it is naturally rot and insect resistant. If you are looking for minimal maintenance, composite or plastic lumber is a great option, as it is designed to resist fading, rotting, and warping.
It is also available in a variety of colors and styles so you can easily find a material that works with your existing home decor. Ultimately, some experimentation may be necessary in order to determine which timber will provide the desired level of durability for your planter boxes.
What are planter boxes made of?
Planter boxes can be made from a variety of materials, ranging from durable plastic to more natural materials such as wood, stone, and even ceramic. Depending on the needs of the gardener, different materials will provide different benefits.
Plastic planters are a great choice for gardeners who want something lightweight and easy to move around. They are usually inexpensive and come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. Although plastic planters can crack or discolor in extreme temperatures, they are highly weather resistant and don’t require a lot of maintenance.
Wood planters are beautiful and one of the more traditional choices. They are usually made of cedar, mahogany, or redwood, although other woods like teak can be seen. Although wood planters need to be treated occasionally and require more maintenance, they can last much longer and have a classic look and feel.
Stone planters are a long-lasting and attractive addition to any garden, despite the fact that they are heavy and more expensive. They come in a variety of natural colors and textures, and will only look better with age.
Ceramic planters can be an elegant and eye-catching addition to any garden, as they come in a variety of designs, colors, and shapes. They’re easy to clean and don’t need to be treated. However, caution must be taken since most ceramic planters will be vulnerable to frost and freeze damage.
Can I use pressure treated wood for planter boxes?
Yes, you can use pressure treated wood for planter boxes. Pressure treated wood is typically used for outdoor structures that are exposed to the elements, such as decks, fences, play sets, and gazebos.
This wood has been infused with chemicals that prevent decay and help the wood to last for several years. Planter boxes are often exposed to the elements and need extra protection, so pressure treated wood is a great choice.
It can help to keep out pests like insects and animals, and can prevent water damage. It is important to be aware that some pressure treated woods may contain chemicals that could be toxic. To be safe, it is advised that you apply a protective sealant to your planter box to prevent any of these materials from leaching into your soil.
Many types of sealants are available, so it’s best to consult a professional to decide which sealant is best for your plant box.
How long will untreated wood last outside?
Untreated wood can last for quite some time outside, depending on the type of wood and the conditions in which it is stored. High-grade wood like cedar, redwood, or cypress can last over thirty years, with little to no maintenance.
Lower-grade wood, such as pine, fir, or poplar, will last for a shorter amount of time, often around five to fifteen years. Proper maintenance, including painting, staining, sealing, or waterproofing, can significantly extend the lifespan of the wood by several years or decades.
Wood stored in a dry area, out of direct sunlight, will last longest. Additionally, correct construction of the wood, such as deep grooves or kiln drying, will also ensure a longer lifespan.
Can you use treated lumber for a planter?
Yes, you can technically use treated lumber for a planter. However, it is not necessarily the best or safest choice for the plant and those who will be handling or consuming it. Treated lumber typically contains substances like chromated copper arsenate (CCA) or ammoniacal copper quaternary (ACQ).
These substances are used to protect the wood from weathering, insects, and fungal decay. While these chemicals help to make it more durable in outdoor conditions, they can also be hazardous to plants, animals, and people, as they can be absorbed into the soil and exposed to whoever is handling the lumber.
In addition, pressure-treated lumber is not ideal for use as a planter because it tends to warp, rot, and crack over time, and the chemicals that it is treated with may cause color changes, staining, or leaching in the soil.
For these reasons, it is generally best to use non-treated lumber for a planter or another type of non-wood material entirely.
Should window boxes be as wide as the window?
When it comes to window boxes, there is no hard and fast rule as to how wide they should be in relation to the window. However, in general it is recommended that window boxes should be slightly wider than the window they are mounted on.
This allows the box to extend outward and gives it a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. Additionally, having a wider window box allows for more plants, flowers and foliage to be incorporated into the design which can be visually appealing and add to the character of the home.
If you opt for a window box that is too narrow for the window, it won’t be able to accommodate more than a few plants and can look out of proportion. Ultimately, the size and width of a window box should be dependent on the size and shape of the window and be meant to complement it.
How do I choose the right size window box?
When choosing a window box the primary consideration should be size. You will want to choose a window box size that is proportionate and aesthetically pleasing to your window and home. Measure the window area and then determine how large of a box you need based off of the measurements.
Also, consider the weight of the window box. Some can get quite heavy when filled with soil and plants, so ensure that you buy a box that won’t be too heavy for your window sill. Additionally, the material of the window box is a factor in the durability of the window box.
Different materials such as metal, wood, resin, PVC, and polyethylene can all be used. Lastly, look at the color options of window boxes so that the box complements the windows, roof, and exterior of your home.
