A Rustic Garden Blog

Wrought iron window boxes accent your home when planted with beautiful annuals. Christy Alley ordered iron planters from us and told her designer that she wanted the flowers “dripping” from the planters.

I have planted many for customers and begin by wrapping the metal planters with plastic wrap to contain the sphagnum moss. Moss has a natural look that helps retain  moisture. Burlap or coco liners can be substituted to save costs. Keep in mind that moss will last several years and the cheaper substitutes give out sooner.

Use wet potting soil and pack it well to get lots of fertile product to plant your flowers in. I stuff every inch with plants!  Some are flowering  and some have  unique colors of foliage. Of course there will be lots of vining colorful flowers dripping over the edge.

There are several ways to plant your wrought iron widow boxes and garden containers that allow proper drainage for beautiful healthy flowers.  My favorite method is by using sphagnum moss as a liner inside the wrought iron planters.  The sphagnum moss has a very natural look and your flowers will love it too.  Simply soak the moss in water before you line your wire baskets and watch your flowers bloom.

I have always used cocoa liners in the past.  Last year we found this high quality moss and we were thrilled with the difference.  When lining a planter basket with larger openings you can stretch saran wrap around the basket.  Once it is planted you can let it set up over night and then remove.

For another economical option you can use a dark colored burlap fabric found at your local fabric store.  You can just tuck it around the container for a great rustic look.

When choosing a new window box planter it is essential that you have all the information in front of you. First off, there are many materials available to choose from: wood, vinyl, PVC, fiberglass, aluminum, wrought-iron, and copper to name a few. Window boxes planters have been around for centuries and they’re an affordable solution to planting and gardening.

With so many new materials on the market it’s important to understand the advantages and disadvantages to all of your choices. Whether you’re look for affordability, low maintenance, or a distinct look, window box gardening can be a fun hobby that brings lots of joy into your life.