- 1). Design your window planter. Decide on the dimensions of the planter, generally as wide as the window, including frame and trim, and as deep and tall as can be easily supported by the mounting. If you plan to use commercial plastic inserts, make sure they will fit inside these dimensions. Investigate the possibilities of types of wood, stain or paint and plants.
- 2). Calculate materials. You will need enough 1x8 or 1x6 wood to make five pieces for your planter: three pieces (front, back and bottom) as long as the width of the planter, two shorter pieces for the sides and extra length for leeway.
- 3). Cut three pieces of wood the same length as the window, plus trim, or any other desired width for the front, back and bottom of the planter. Cut two pieces for the sides the length of the width of the wood plus the thickness of the bottom piece. Pre-drill two guide holes through the side pieces on each end and two guide holes though the bottom on each end, adding three extra ½ inch holes for drainage on the bottom piece.
- 4). Lay out the prepared pieces flat, the bottom in the center, sides on sides and back and front above and below. Make sure all ends are flush and that guide holes will lead to wood. Adjust for mistakes if necessary.
- 5). Assemble the planter. Glue and clamp the side pieces to the ends of the front and back pieces. Screw the pieces together using the guide holes. Place the bottom on top of the rectangle created and glue and screw into place. Note that the bottom should fit on top of the front and back pieces and inside the side pieces. Let dry overnight. Sand. Stain and seal or prime and paint.
- 6). Mount the planter. You may just set the planter in place if your window extends to the ground. If the planter is above the ground, it can be held to the siding of the house by sturdy hanging bolts or L-brackets or from the windowsill with large T-brackets. You might also consider placing the window box on a handy bench or table to reach the level of the window.
- 7). Bring a garden to your eyes by lining the simple window planter with plastic and filling it with soil and plants.
SHARE
