Window Boxes

Host: Gary Bachman, Ornamental Horticulture Specialist

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Window boxes are an old-fashioned idea for updating your modern home landscape today on Southern Gardening.

Southern Gardening with Gary Bachman is produced by the Mississippi State University Extension Service.

We all recognize that the charm of a window box overflowing with flowers can give any home that cottagey feel. The choice of window boxes is endless from plain wood boxes, to terracotta troughs or wire frames lined with core maddening. Making a decision could be time consuming. Try matching the window box to the style and/or color of your home. Try painting, staining, or simply allowing the window box to weather are all affective treatments. Choose simple brackets that will be hidden by trailing plants or ornate brackets that can be seen and meant to match your home style.

The size of the window box is an important consideration. It needs to be in proportion with the window. Too small and it may look lost on the window seal. Too long, and it may look like a floral mustache. Windows capes, like our landscapes, look best with a variety of sizes, colors, and textures.

Use the filler, spiller, and thriller combination container technique. Try Brandy wax begonia, fire chief caladium, and variegated vinca vine for a shady setting. Or you could plant an edible window box with leaf lettuce, tiny-tim tomatoes, and fairytale eggplant for delicious, fresh summer meals. Be sure to place your window box in an easily accessible location. It will be easy to take care of and you would be more likely to give it the proper care. If you have a small country house, or modern condominium, we could all use window boxes for a little more garden space.

I’m horticulturist, Gary Bachman with Southern Gardening.

Southern Gardening with Gary Bachman is produced by the Mississippi State Extension Service.