WINDOW BOXES

Planting tips for window boxes

Window boxes, being long and narrow, cause some gardeners make the mistake of planting a single subject and setting the plants in a row. Try to avoid doing this because it looks too regimented and unimaginative. Aim for more shape in the design by using a mixture of plants in a zig zag pattern, varying in sizes and texture.   

Here's a simple window box garden diagram that can be used effectively with the right size and shape of plants mixed together.  Notice the plants are set in a zig zag type pattern which will grow into a bountiful, lush look:

Go for a layered design like the diagram above: use the tallest plants in the back, with the shorter and bushy plants along the middle rows. The front of the flower box should be planted with trailers to give your box that overflowing effect that is quite gorgeous.  

Keep in mind the weather patterns where you garden as well.  If the area your box is placed is prone to wind, it’s best to avoid long trailing plants (such as ivies) because they'll be lashed around and damaged.  In this case, go for sturdy, bushy plants or moderate trailers.

Don't be afraid to have some fun with your designs.  If something doesn't look right or work, pull it out and try something different -- now or next season.  Here at Flower Framers, we love the bountiful, lush window box look and guide all of our customers to use this style because it's our favorite.  It always makes your home stand out and gets the most compliments.   

Indian Summer

This time of the year brings those sunny, balmy days of comfortable weather before the winter chill sets in.  So, open those windows, bring in the fresh air and plant your boxes with these selections to brighten up your fall landscaping. 

Carex buchananii, “Leather leaf sedge”
Salvia officinalis, “Icterinia”
Calibrachoa hybrid, “Million Bells” (cherry pink)
Ajania hybrid, “Bellania Bea”
Lysimachia nummularia, “Goldilocks”

Plant three Leather Leaf Sedge across the back of the box evenly spaced. 

In between the Sedge and slightly forward, plant two Cherry Pink Million Bells. 

Across the middle of the box, plant three Bellania Bea evenly spaced. 

Alternate three Salvia and four Lysimachia in a zig zag pattern across the front of the box.

Copyright © 2000-2020
Hints and Things
All Rights Reserved.



No portion of this site may be reproduced or redistributed without prior written permission from Hints and Things. All trademarks & copyrights throughout Hints and Things remain the property of their respective owners.

Hints and Things cannot be held responsible for any information given on this site nor do they necessarily agree with, or endorse, the views given by third parties.