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Important considerations -

One of the first things to consider when creating a window box is the area where you're going to be planting. Is it on the shaded side of your property, or sunny side up?

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Location, location, location -

This is important because the location of the box will likely dictate the type of flowers or plants you want to cultivate.

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Facing the right direction -

Remember that boxes that face south and west receive more direct sunlight and will dry out faster than boxes on the opposite side of the home.

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Ease of use -

Functional aspects are equally important to consider. For example, will the position of the box facilitate easy watering and pruning? And note that all boxes require regular maintenance.

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Weighty issues -

The weight of a window box is another key factor. Don't underestimate how heavy a window box can be. It's hefty enough when filled with soil and plants, but gets even heavier when watered.

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Fashion sense -

Aesthetics play an important role when choosing a window box. Quite often the style of a box is dictated by the design elements of the property.

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Material choices -

For example, a sleek, minimalist plastic or PVC window box will complement the clean lines and open plan aspect of a modern home.

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Pastoral perspective -

On the other hand, a window box fashioned from wood is far better suited to the rustic veneer of a traditional countryside cottage.

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Heavier metal -

Another attractive option is metal. The best choices are those boxes treated with a rust-free material, like powder-coated metal or copper window boxes.

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Important design aspect -

Whatever your choice, always make sure your window box has adequate drainage holes.

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Planting a window box -

Planting window boxes is a relatively straightforward process. To prevent soil seeping out of the drainage holes, cover the bottom of the box with gravel or landscape fabric.

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Soil choice -

Choose a good quality, lightweight potting soil. This holds moisture well, for less watering. Some gardeners recommend mixing soil with perlite and peat for extra water retention.

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The right plants for the climate -

Choosing plants for your window box depends on where you've chosen to locate it. If it's in the shade, then sun-loving plants are a no-no. Similarly, a location bathed in sunshine will be better suited to heat-tolerant plants.

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Check the weather -

Does it rain a lot where you live? If precipitation is high, opt for water-loving plants.

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Suitable for herbs -

Window boxes are also suitable for planting aromatic herbs and vegetables, things such as mint, parsley, and basil.

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Indoor window boxes -

Actually, many common herbs thrive on sunny, indoor windowsills—keeping fresh herbs ready in every season. And interiors are often scented with a wonderful aromatic fragrance into the bargain.

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Advantages of an interior window box -

The obvious advantages of using an interior window box is that plants cultivated this way enjoy all the light of living outdoors, but without the risks of temperature fluctuation and attacks from bugs associated with the garden.

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Frost-free -

Spring bulbs benefit enormously from being grown indoors, planted as they are well away from harmful winter frost.

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Adding a splash of color -

For many home owners, and especially those living in a high-rise urban environment, the appeal of a window box lies in the splash of color flowers provide.

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Vibrant greenery -

Indeed, flowering plants can enliven even the dullest of facades. And trailing and vining plants serve to add lush, vibrant greenery.

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Drought-tolerant plants -

Succulents planted in an outside window box always work well. These drought-tolerant plants, species that include crassula, aeonium, and aloe vera, are favorite residents of the urban window box.

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Designing the color palette -

Arranging three to six flowering plants of complementary colors in a repetitive pattern is the best way to showcase your window box. But again, this idea depends on the orientation of your window box.

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Decide on a focal point -

Arrange your window boxes so they become a focal point for the eye. Decide on a centerpiece bloom and then work outwards.

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Skyline in bloom -

Window boxes in high-rise apartments can be designed to emphasize a skyline, which can create quite an appealing outlook over an otherwise stark and drab urban landscape.

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Get creative -

You don't have to live in the back and beyond to create rustic countryside character. Look how this homeowner has built their window box out of silver birch logs to support a herb garden.

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Get personal -

Creating a window box can say a lot about your own character. This homeowner obviously appreciates daffodils, but chances are they also enjoy a connection with the sea!

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Festive ideas -

And the festive season can prompt all sorts of winter box ideas. This autumnal display perfectly conveys the spirit of Thanksgiving and the  Christmas period.

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Plants for sunny window boxes -

Plants for sunny window boxes are numerous and include marigolds, daffodils, and honeysuckles. Rosemary, thyme, and lavender also thrive under sunshine.

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Plants for shady window boxes -

Numbering among plants for shady window boxes are crocuses, snowdrops, and trumpet vines. Herb species include parsley, peppermint, and oregano.

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Keep it simple -

If you're considering building a window box, keep things simple. Those lucky enough to have access to a balcony should first experiment with various plants and flowers to determine what works well and what doesn't, and how much effort is involved cultivating and maintaining plant life.

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Work to a smaller scale -

Keep garden design elements in mind on a smaller scale. Pictured is a fall flower box with ornamental cabbage, heather, and ivy.

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Learn the basics -

If you plan to grow vegetables, learn the basics. This photograph shows tomato and bell pepper seeds germinating in eggshells on a window sill.

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The golden rule -

And it's worth repeating the golden rule: always give your window box plenty of water to keep flowering plants happy all summer long.

Sources: (Better Homes & Gardens) (Old House Online)

See also: The most fragrant flowers to plant in your garden

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