The Ultimate Window Box Buying Guide

The Ultimate Window Box Buying Guide

March has arrived, and for garden enthusiasts, that means one thing: The countdown to planting season is officially on. If you’ve been staring at your home’s exterior and feeling like it needs a little "something," there is no quicker or more effective upgrade than a window box. It’s an instant splash of color, an architectural accent, and a way to bring your garden right up to your window—literally.

But before you start picking out your pansies and petunias, you need to make sure you have the right foundation. Choosing the perfect window box can feel a bit overwhelming with so many materials and sizes available.

To help you get ready for the spring thaw, we’ve broken down this buying guide into three easy steps.

 

Step 1: Get the Measurement Right

The biggest mistake people make is buying a box that is the exact same width as their window. To get that "designer" look, you want a little bit of overhang.

• Windows Without Shutters: Measure your window from left to right. Ideally, you want a window box that is the width of the window plus about 8 inches (4 inches of overhang on each side). This ensures the box looks substantial and balanced.

• Windows With Shutters: This is where it gets tricky! You don't want the box to be as wide as the shutters, or it will look crowded. Measure the window width, then add about 1/3 of the width of the shutters on each side.

• Multiple Windows: If you have a double or triple window, you have a choice. You can hang individual boxes for each window for a segmented look, or one long, continuous planter for a grand, sweeping statement.

 

Step 2: Choose Your "Vibe" (and Material)

The material you choose determines more than just the look; it determines the maintenance level. Here are the most popular choices for a spring refresh:

• For the "Set It and Forget It" Gardener (Fiberglass & Cellular PVC): These are our most popular options. Fiberglass is incredibly lightweight and won't warp or bow, while Cellular PVC looks exactly like real painted wood but is completely rot-proof. Both can handle extreme weather without a second thought.

• For the Romantic (Wrought Iron): If you love the look of a Parisian balcony, Wrought Iron is your best friend. Our cages are powder-coated to resist rust and are designed to be paired with liners—giving you the freedom to swap out colors (like copper or white) whenever you want a new look.

• For the Traditionalist (Wood & Copper): Nothing beats the natural beauty of Cedar. They are naturally bug-resistant and look beautiful as they age. If you want true luxury, Copper is a showstopper that develops a gorgeous blue-grey patina over time (and it naturally deters snails and slugs!).

 

Step 3: Don’t Forget the "Secret Weapons"

If you want your spring blooms to effortlessly last through the summer heat, consider these two upgrades:

1. Self-Watering Reservoirs: These sit at the bottom of your box and wick moisture up to the roots. It can reduce your watering chores from "every day" to "once every week or two." It’s the ultimate gift to yourself.

2. The Right Hardware: Whether you’re mounting to siding, brick, or a deck railing, ensure you have the specific hardware designed for that weight. A full window box is heavy, and "pro" brackets make sure it stays put through spring storms.

 

Ready to start your spring transformation?

The best time to order is right now. Beating the April rush means your boxes will be mounted and ready the moment the first "early bloomers" hit the garden centers.

Explore our Full Collection and Find Your Perfect Match!