Things You'll Need:
- Compass (optional)
- Window box
- Seedlings
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Step 1
Determine the direction that your window box faces. If you do not know which direction your window faces, use a compass to find out. This will determine what plants will grow well in your window box.
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Step 2
Check the amount of light your window box receives. Even a south facing window can be in the shade for the majority of the day. Check for buildings and trees that may cast a shadow on your window box. North facing window boxes are often shaded by the house itself for a large portion of the day. Know how many hours of direct sunlight your planter will receive.
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Step 3
Measure the size of your window box. The amount of room provided for roots and for growing plants will make a difference. Although there are many plants that will grow in a small shallow space, some will not. Generally, you will want to provide a depth of 6 inches or more. You need to know how much room you have before choosing plants.
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Step 4
Decide on a color scheme for your window box. Bright whites and pale yellows will brighten up a shady spot. Reds and oranges will sizzle in late summer and early fall.
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Step 5
Consider the color of the window box and the background before choosing colors. You want to pick a nice contrast between the color of the flowers and the color of the box or building. Delicate white flowers will blend into the background if your box and house are white.
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Step 6
Choose plants that will complement each other. Think of the leaf size, shape, and growing habits, as well as, the size, shape and color of the flowers.
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Step 7
Refer to a good plant book or ask your local nursery for suggestions for your particular location. Be ready to tell them about the lighting your window box will receive, the color scheme you would like, and the size of your window box. See resource section for a plant data base that can be searched by characteristics.
