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Overview:
This project will show you how to build a window box planter. Take advantage of your green thumb no matter what size yard you have. Window boxes are great for gardening on a small scale. Grow flowers, herbs, even vegetables in this simple to assemble, attractive planter.
Materials:
2 pieces of 8' cedar or redwood 1" x 8" board, (Use pine if you want to paint your window boxes), 2" galvanized screws, 2 1/2" galvanized screws, water-resistant wood glue, silicone caulk, wood buttons (to cover screw holes), exterior stain, sealer or paint
Tools You'll Need:
power-lite cordless drill or 6-in-1 interchangeable screwdriver, 10ft. or 25ft. tape measure, 4-in-1 level
Before You Begin:
Determine measurements based on the width of your window. For a 4' window: Cut two 48" pieces from for the front and back of the planter. Cut a 48" piece for the bottom. Cut two pieces from the scrap boards to measure 6" wide and 8" tall. For the anchor pieces cut three 6" long pieces.
Barbara's Tips:
Put a thin layer of stones on the bottom of the planter before adding soil. You'll have improved drainage and less soil loss.
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Step 1: A Dry Run
Lay out the pieces and dry fit them together with the straight edge of the side against the back of the planter and the angled side against the front of the planter. Make any necessary adjustments to the pieces.
Step 2: Easy Assembly
Use your drill to make pilot holes through the faces of the front and back pieces as needed. Drill pilot holes along the face of the bottom piece. Glue the pieces together. Place the 1 1/2" screws about a 1/2" from each end and then roughly every 8" inches to attach the pieces together. Use wood buttons to cover the holes.
Step 3: Finishing Touches
Drill 1/8" holes in the bottom of the planter for drainage. Stain and seal the planter.
Step 4: Anchoring the Window Box
Attach the three 6" pieces to the side of the house, 1/2" below the window frame. (Do not extend these pieces beyond the sides of the window frame). These strips will act as spacers between the window box and the wall and allow air to circulate between them. Align the tops of the strips with the top of the back piece on the window box. Drill pilot holes through the back of the window box and the strips. Use the 2 1/2" screws to anchor the strips to the house. After you've secured your strips to the house, apply a bead of silicone along the top edge of the strip. Attach the window box to the strip by screwing three 2" screws, per strip on an angle, approximately 1 –2" down from the top of the mounting strip.
Now go ahead and plant your mini-crops. You did it yourself!
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