Outdoor Window Box

An outdoor window box is an easy way to add charm to our back patio. Adding some easy care plants helped to transform our back patio space and create a lovely focal point.

When we installed our stamped concrete patio last spring, I had every intention of adding a window box to the back window on the patio. Life got busy and we didn’t get it installed. But this summer we installed it and it really dressed up the back patio. The window box created a more finished look to the space and I love it!

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window box on back patio window with wood table and blue umbrella

Choosing the Best Window Box for Your Home

Not all window boxes are created equal. Since everyone’s home and style are different; it’s best to select a window box that corresponds with your homes style. We have more of a traditional, craftsman-cottage style home and I selected something with a traditional look and feel. You may have a more modern home or more of a country feel; select one that reflects you and your home’s style.

Traditional Home (Colonia, Craftsman, Farmhouse) – Look for a classic wood or iron box with white or natural wood stain.
Modern or Minimalist – A sleek metal or composite window box with clean line and neutral colors work very nicely.
Cottage or French Country Style – Consider something with decorative scrollwork or distressed finishes such as copper and painted wood add vintage charm.

window box on patio with flowers and hydrangeas planted

The Best Window Box Material

If you ask me, I like outdoor material to be weather resistant and last a long time. We selected a composite or vinyl window box for it’s look and longevity. We use the same one on our home in Northern Virginia and it held up very well. There are several other materials to choose from however.

Cedar or Redwood – These wooden window boxes are lovely. They offer a beautiful, natural look that resists rot. CONS: Require periodic sealing or staining.
PVC or Composite – Durable, low-maintenance and weather-resistant. Come in a variety of colors and can mimic a wood grain.
Metal such as Copper or Iron – Great for a luxe or rustic look. Copper will develop a patina over time. Ensure good drainage to avoid rust.
Plastic – Lightweight and affordable. CONS: Might not last as long or offer the same aesthetic.

What Size is Best?

Size is important when it comes to a window box. Something too small will look not quite right.

Ideally have the window box match the width of your window. It can be slightly smaller or even slightly extend beyond the window for visual balance. We went a little smaller on our select because I like the look and when plants are full they will finish up the sides of the boxes along the window.

The height should be proportional to your window and home’s facade being careful not to block too much of your window view.

back patio with table umbrella and hydrangeas

Consider Draining and Watering

Self-Watering window boxes have a reservoir so you don’t have to water as often. They have the ability to store additional water below the root surface and gradually release the water into the soil as it dries.

Look for a window box with pre-drilled drainage holes.

Check out these other posts!
Stamped Concrete Patio
How to Build a Patio Swing Bed
Walk-In Pantry Remodel

Best Plants and Flowers

The best plants for your window box is based on two factors really. What plants you like and whether you need shade or sun plants or part-shade/part-sun.

Since the box sits under the overhang of the house, it pretty much receives direct shade with indirect sun. Therefore, I selected shade type plants.

NOTE: It’s ok to use faux plants in your boxes or a mixture of faux and real.

Shady Window Plants – Look for ferns, ivy or impatiens.
Full Sun Window – Use geraniums, petunias and trailing potato vine.

I selected hostas, ferns, white dot polka dot plant and tossed in a few faux white flowers.

Other Uses

While window boxes are usually hung under a window; there are other ways to use them. We installed this black metal box on this lattice fence we built to cover our propane tank and dress up this area. I love how the flowers on the trellis help make this space more visually appealing.

cream lattice fence with bench, hydrangeas and metal window box attached.

Window Box | Bench | Lattice | Pillow | Faux Geraniums

Easy Tips for Planting and Maintaining Your Window Box

To keep the flowers looking their tip-top best; here are a few tips.

Water Regularly – Daily watering might be necessary when it’s really hot outside or for sun-exposed windows. If the soil is dry 1-2″ down; go ahead and water.
Use Quality Potting Soil – Choose lightweight potting mix; not garden soil.
Prune/Deadhead Regularly – Trim leggy stems to maintain a full shade, pinch off spent blooms to encourage more flowers. Remove damage and yellow leaves.
Refresh with the Seasons – Replace spent summer florals with mums or pansies for the fall. Add winter greenery for the winter months.