If your window gets plenty of sunlight, then a container filled with euphorbia is your best choice. This succulent shrub can grow up to 50 centimeters tall, and its thick, spiky leaves are highly poisonous. Also known as the crown of thrones, this plant has low maintenance needs and long blooming periods. It is an excellent plant for sun-kissed windows, as it is low maintenance and requires little care.
Perennials
When selecting the best perennials for planter boxes, you need to consider the climate and the primary viewing point. Some perennials do best in shady locations, but they may need more water than those that thrive in sunny areas. In addition, you must consider the overwintering needs of your plants. Perennials with similar growing conditions can be mixed together in beautiful containers, while those with different needs can be planted separately.
The soil needs to be kept moist and the container needs to be placed somewhere where it receives a sheltered location. Plants in a sheltered location can absorb some of the warmth from the ground. East-facing windows are ideal, but avoid placing planters on elevated surfaces, such as decks or pavement. In addition, containerized perennials may drown if the soil freezes at the bottom of the box.
Bellflower, also known as campanula, has multiple colored blooms in the summer. Bellflower grows best in zones four and above, but it can be grown in zones three and four with a bit of extra care. It grows a foot in height and likes slightly acidic soil. It will make a lovely ground cover. Planter boxes containing this perennial will make a beautiful, long-lasting display of color.
Annuals
When preparing the soil for annual plants, choose a well-drained, pH-balanced soil. Annuals do not require fertilizing during the growing season; however, they will benefit from a water-soluble fertilizer every few weeks to maintain optimal growth. Also, annuals have shallow roots, which can stain when watered overhead. In addition, frequent overhead watering may contribute to the buildup of botrytis fungus, which attacks zinnias, geraniums and marigolds. Choose annuals according to their color and form.
Nasturtiums are easy-to-grow annuals with beautiful flowers. They flower abundantly during cool weather and take a break in the hotter months. Nasturtiums have broad, circular leaves that are solid green with cream-colored stripes. Bush-type Nasturtiums grow six to 12 inches tall, while vine-type varieties can reach three to six feet tall. They prefer full sun but do well in partial shade.
You can also choose a container that is large enough to accommodate several plants. Planting a mixture of annuals in a planter box is a great way to add variety to the planting. Annuals are perfect for planter boxes, as they can easily stand alone or mix with other plants. When choosing a container for annuals, get creative and find ones that fit the theme of your planter box. Consider hanging containers, windowboxes, and hanging containers. Both can make a pretty display when planted with care.
Cacti
There are many types of cacti. This planter box will be filled with soil. You should start by making sure that the box has drainage holes. Also, use a screen in the box to prevent soil from escaping or clogging the drainage holes. Add soil evenly until the box is about two-thirds full. Before you start planting, you should remove any euphorbias or cacti that have been in the box for too long.
Choose colorful, attractive cacti for your planter box. You will be happy you did. Cacti do not need a lot of water. You should water them once a week. However, you should keep in mind that they are not big feeders. Because of this, you may not want to fertilize them often. Cacti are not tolerant of extreme temperatures, so make sure you keep a container with drainage holes to keep your plants healthy.
If you plan to use a ceramic pot, you should purchase one with several drainage holes. These containers will allow for less water to get to the roots. Also, they can withstand colder temperatures. And they’re also very lightweight, which means they are easy to carry from place to place. Cacti are also good for containers that have drainage holes. But be sure to make sure that the soil is moist and does not dry out too quickly.
Ferns
If you’re looking for a beautiful plant to plant in your planter box, consider ferns. Ferns are native to woodlands, and thrive in moist soil, which is rich in organic matter from dead leaves and moss. Use potting soil that has a high percentage of organic matter, like peat moss, to grow your ferns. Add pebbles and gravel to the soil to retain moisture and drainage.
Some ferns are fast-growing and require a lot of room, but others are slow-growing. In general, ferns grow slowly, so it’s best to buy a large plant to start with. Ferns also vary in their growth rates, so you need to know which one to choose. Japanese painted ferns, for example, grow slowly. Meanwhile, ostrich ferns grow quickly when they’re happy and healthy.
Fertilize your ferns regularly. Ferns need generous watering, as compared to plants grown in the ground. Fertilizers should be applied to the soil on a monthly basis during the growing season, but once a month or two during winter. Never over-fertilize ferns. This could damage their delicate growth. Ferns are one of the best plants for planter boxes, so consider adding them to your outdoor space.
Hostas
When choosing a hosta for a planter box, keep in mind that the size of the pot will depend on the type of hosta you choose. Dwarf hostas will grow well in small pots, while larger hostas can fill eight-foot-square planter boxes. The proper container size is at least three inches wider than the plant’s root spread. Hostas need room to grow, so you’ll want to choose a pot with sufficient space between its roots and the container.
Depending on the size of the planter box, you may want to use a less expensive one. In addition to the potting mix, use a potting soil that drains well and is light enough for the plant. To make the soil richer and more fertile, mix a small amount of peat compost or granular fertilizer into the soil before placing the plant in it.
When choosing hostas, remember that they come in a wide variety of sizes and colors. Miniature hostas are only a few inches across. Large hostas can be six to eight feet wide. Make sure to check the mature width and height of the hosta before choosing it. Most hostas available at a garden center are appropriate for planter boxes. Just make sure to follow the instructions for the container.
Nemesia
The best way to grow nemesia in a planter box is to place it in full sunlight. However, it can tolerate some shade. Nemesia is not recommended for areas where nighttime temperatures are consistently below 70 degrees. Plant it in a bright spot, and water it regularly, but don’t overwater it or you will risk rotting its roots. Also, keep in mind that nemesias like a cool climate and do not grow well in very dry conditions.
For best results, nemesia should be planted in a partially-shaded area after the threat of frost is past. Plant nemesia seeds at least 4 inches apart in a pot or tray with adequate drainage. After you plant the seeds, make sure to water the plants well and mulch them with an organic mulch to protect them from harsh temperatures. Then, plant the nemesia seedlings in the ground after the danger of frost has passed. You can even prune them to give them a bushier appearance.
The best part of planting nemesia in a pot or planter box is that they have no flower buds! You can even plant them in pots or containers if you’re short on space. Because they don’t transplant well, they need to be planted several weeks before the last frost date. Ideally, the seeds should be started seven to eight weeks before the last frost date in your region.
Sweet potato vine
This beautiful perennial loves a warm climate, but can also thrive in partial shade. It likes moderately rich soil that drains well. Planting sweet potato vines in a planter box will allow you to enjoy the sweet treat at any time of the year. You can use water-soluble fertilizer every few weeks to give them the nutrients they need to grow. Sweet potato vines are also drought tolerant and prefer partial or full sun.
If you’re considering growing a sweet potato vine in a window box, you should look into cultivars with different colors. Some varieties are purple-colored, while others are lime-green. Regardless of its color, sweet potato vines will add instant curb appeal to your planter box. Sweet potatoes are also low-maintenance plants, so you can enjoy a beautiful, colorful display.
The ideal soil pH level for a sweet potato vine is 4.5 to 7.5, and it can tolerate a wide range of pH levels. A pH level of six is best. If your soil is lacking in potassium, consider using kelp meal fertilizer or compost made from banana peels. Wood ash can also be used as a source of potassium, but make sure to not obscure the soil with it.