When you talk about windows, most people think of light, ventilation, or the view they offer from inside. It’s just a home structure sticking out of the wall without drawing much attention. Well, that was before flower boxes entered the picture.
Adding a flower box beneath a window changes the appearance of your home exterior. It’s a simple upgrade with a noticeable effect.
Now, you probably wonder how to get started or what’s involved in installing these boxes. The good news is it’s more straightforward than it seems. Just follow this step-by-step guide:
Pick the Right Window Box Material
Before anything gets drilled or mounted, the first step is selecting a flower box. And most likely, the top of your mind is the design—how it will look once it’s up. That matters, of course. But the material is just as important. It affects the appearance, how well the box holds up outdoors, and how much care it will need over time.
Here are some popular materials and what they do well:
- Wood: This material stands out for its classic, natural feel. Cedar and redwood are popular options since they resist moisture better than other types of wood. Just remember, wooden window boxes may need sealing or painting now and then to keep them protected from the elements.
- Metal: Renowned for strength and durability, metal flower boxes add a bold or decorative accent to any exterior. They pair well with both traditional and modern home styles. You can choose from wrought iron, steel, or aluminum, each offering different finishes and designs.
- Plastic or Resin: Are you fond of easy care and durability? Plastic and resin planter boxes fit the bill. They’re lightweight, weather-resistant, and won’t crack or fade easily. They’re available in many colors and patterns, so it’s easy to find one that matches your home style.
Note that some materials need more maintenance than others, so consider how much time you’re willing to spend caring for your flower box. Picking the right material upfront will save headaches later and keep the container looking great for years.
Measure and Mark
Next is figuring out where your window box will live. Hold the container beneath the window to get a feel for the perfect height. Placing it about 2 to 4 inches below the windowsill works well. It keeps the plants in view but leaves enough room for watering and maintenance.
Use a measuring tape to find the exact spot, then mark it lightly with a pencil. This is also when you want to check that the box will be level. An uneven box not only looks sloppy but can cause water to pool in one spot, which isn’t great for your plants.
After that, mark where the mounting brackets or screws will go. Usually, you’ll want two or three brackets depending on the box’s length. And don’t forget to space them evenly for strong, balanced support.
Taking your time here pays off. Precise measuring and marking means less frustration when you start drilling, and your flower box will sit just right.
Install Brackets and Mount the Flower Box
Now that your spots are marked, it’s time to install those brackets. The type of wall you’re working with will guide what kind of hardware you’ll need. If your home has wood or vinyl siding, galvanized screws typically work well. For brick or masonry, you’ll want to use wall anchors or masonry screws for a solid hold.
As you attach the brackets, keep a level handy. It’s the easiest way to make sure everything lines up straight. Crooked brackets throw off the look and can also cause water to collect unevenly in the box. And that’s not great for your plants or the box itself.
Before driving in the screws, drill small pilot holes. This simple step helps prevent the surface from splitting or cracking, especially with wood. Once the brackets are firmly attached, you can now mount the containers. Make sure to gently push or shake each one to confirm everything is stable. It should feel solid, not loose or top-heavy.
Add Soil and Flowers
The favorite part of your window box project is finally here: gardening. Along with adding some green to your home, it can also support your mental health.
Start by filling the box with a good potting mix. Garden soil might be tempting, but it’s usually too heavy and doesn’t drain well in a container. So, let’s stick with the potting soil. It’s lighter and made for this kind of setup. Want to give your plants a boost? Mix compost or perlite to help with water flow and root growth.
Now for the exciting part: choosing the flowers. Think about how much sunlight the spot gets during the day. If it gets a lot of sun, go for plants like petunias, marigolds, or geraniums. For shadier windows, impatiens, begonias, or coleus are good options.
Mixing things up is also beautiful to the eye. Use something taller in the back, fill the middle with bushier plants, and add trailing flowers near the front so they spill over the edge. That mix of heights and textures makes the box feel full and balanced.
For the finale, press the soil gently around the roots and give everything a good drink of water.
Wrapping Up
It may never cross your mind that something as simple as a flower box can change your home design so much. But once it’s up, you’ll see how it softens the edges, adds color, and brings a fresh, natural feel to your exterior. Installing one doesn’t have to be complicated. Just follow the steps here, and you’ll have a beautiful window box that lasts for years.