Selecting the Ideal Window Planter Box
If you have a passion for gardening or simply appreciate the beauty of flowers and foliage, window planter boxes offer a wonderful opportunity to enhance your living space. These unassuming rectangular containers possess an understated elegance that complements various settings, making them a versatile choice for both indoor and outdoor decor. They are available in an assortment of lengths, colors, and finishes, and the best part is that they are a budget-friendly option to elevate your surroundings.
If you’re contemplating adding a splash of color or greenery to your home, patio, or deck, investing in window planter boxes is a fantastic idea. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide an overview of popular window box styles and conclude with a few recommended options. Our top choice, the H Potter Window Box, stands out with its graceful silhouette and refined brushed copper finish.
Crucial Considerations Before Buying a Window Planter Box
Choice of Materials:
Terra-cotta: Terra-cotta, a classic material for pot-style planters, is a popular pick for window boxes. It is known for its porous and breathable properties, making it an excellent choice for cacti and succulents. However, it’s worth noting that terra-cotta is susceptible to cracking in extreme weather conditions.
Wood: Wooden window boxes exude a rustic or country charm, often featuring unique designs or being handcrafted. Similar to terra-cotta, wood allows for proper aeration of the plants and excels at insulating them during colder months. Nevertheless, wood is vulnerable to rot and damage from wood-boring insects.
Metal: Metal window boxes come either as a single piece or incorporate a frame that accommodates a coconut fiber liner. These boxes are remarkably durable and capable of withstanding various weather conditions, although they may rust over time due to prolonged exposure to moisture.
Plastic: Affordable and easy to maintain, plastic window boxes are a popular choice. Well-constructed PVC designs have a long lifespan, and they are lightweight. However, their lack of porosity means that plants can become waterlogged, potentially leading to root rot.
Fiberglass: Fiberglass ranks among the top choices for window boxes, as it can be designed to resemble stone, clay, wood, or metal. It offers excellent heat resistance and durability throughout seasons, but it typically comes at a higher price point due to these advantages.
Key Features to Look For:
Mounting: The method and materials for mounting your window box depend on its weight and design. Heavier boxes require L-brackets for added support, while lightweight options can often be easily attached using pegs if they have pre-drilled holes.
Liner: One-piece window boxes are self-contained and do not require a liner. However, some gardeners choose to line terra-cotta boxes with plastic to prevent moisture-related damage to the roots. Metal-framed or caged window boxes typically require a coconut fiber or synthetic liner.
Self-Watering: Some window boxes come equipped with self-watering features. These designs incorporate reservoirs with pop-up indicators that alert you when the plants need additional water. Self-watering window boxes not only promote plant health but also reduce overall maintenance.
Budget Considerations for Window Planter Boxes
The cost of window planter boxes can vary depending on their design and material. Simple, classic designs made of plastic or wood can be found for $50 or less. As you move into the $50 to $100 range, you’ll discover window boxes constructed from high-end wood, PVC, metal, or fiberglass. For designer and oversized window boxes, the price can exceed $100.
In conclusion, when selecting the perfect window planter box, consider your personal style, the materials that best suit your needs, and any additional features like self-watering capabilities. With the right choice, you can transform your living space into a botanical haven, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and bringing the joys of gardening to your doorstep.
Window Planter Box FAQs
What are typical window box sizes?
Answer: Window planter box sizes commonly range from 12 to 40 inches in length, with heights varying between 4 to 10 inches and an average depth of 5 to 8 inches.
Does my window box include mounting hardware?
Answer: Although some window planter boxes come with mounting hardware, the quality may vary. As a result, many individuals choose to upgrade the hardware or explore alternative mounting options, especially for heavier boxes like terra-cotta or fiberglass.
Which window planter box is the best choice?
Top Window Planter Box:
Our Recommendation: An ornate and charming twist on the traditional window box design.
Highlights: Well-crafted stainless steel construction with a matching finish on the drip tray.
Considerations: Some may prefer using this design as a countertop display rather than mounting it.
Top Window Planter Box for the Money:
Our Recommendation: An affordable option with a timeless appearance that offers great versatility.
Highlights: Available in four different lengths and finishes. The plastic is resistant to fading and frost.
Considerations: While it includes drainage holes, it does not come with a drip tray.
Worth Checking Out:
Our Recommendation: A rustic planter that complements any garden or window sill.
Highlights: Features a well-made, replaceable coco liner and powder-coated steel that withstands various weather conditions.
Considerations: You might need to consider upgrading from the included mounting hardware.
