Continuation of what works best in window boxes and how to ensure plants and flowers

When planting, place taller plants in the back of the box, moderate in the middle and front, and space trailing vines evenly along the very front. This will keep all of your plants visible, even when they all grow to their final size.

Don't be surprised if, after a couple of months, your plants lose some of their blooming power. If this happens, you can try several options including adding fertilizer during regular watering; cutting back the plant, letting it regenerate some new foliage; removing some of the plants, adding new soil and loosening the roots.

Befriend your local grower. If you have questions about plants, soil preparation, sun exposure, or anything green, be sure to ask the garden professionals where you purchase your plants. Growers often can answer specific questions about your project, as they have knowledge of your local climate conditions, soils, and plants.

advice on what works best in window boxes and how to ensure plants and flowers

Use a good quality soil; soils with slow release fertilizers already added can give an added beauty boost. Also, since most window boxes tend to dry out in the heat of the summer sun, add moisture-retaining crystals (available at most garden centers) to the soil, according to package directions.

When choosing plants, think about variations in color, either in blooms, foliage, or both. Mix and match, if you prefer, by combining different varieties of plants that bloom in similar shades for an eye-catching color event.

Pick plants that are well cared-for and are a manageable size as these will transplant into your window boxes more quickly, giving you more beautiful displays more easily, suggests Cummings. Though not initially as impressive, smaller plants will grow quickly and fill in well.

How to plant beautiful window flower boxes....

Window boxes provide a way to expand your horizons, beautifying beyond the lawn and garden.

If using window boxes from years past, clean out old plants and soil, and wash the inside with a mild bleach solution. Then, let dry in the sun for a day or two to remove any pests or diseases from previous plantings

Before planting, spend a day noting how much sunlight your window boxes receive. By monitoring the amount of sun your plants will get each day, you will be able to choose the plants that are appropriate for your specific location.