A window planter box isn't only a great way to add a splash of colour to your garden - they're also perfect for optimising your space and giving you a beautiful view too. Imagine having a year-round display of flowers just outside your window!
There are so many window box planter ideas that you can create - you could grow daffodils and pansies in spring, tulips and marigolds in summer, dwarf sunflowers and dahlias in autumn and hellebores and cyclamen in winter.
You could even plant some evergreen shrubs for your own bit of topiary, or alternatively, use your window boxes to grow fruit and vegetables if you're short of a veg patch.
They're not just for your exterior house windows either - you can use window planters on the ground, inside on your window sill, on a balcony, to decorate a shed or summerhouse, or even a disused doorway.
Although it's possible to make your own window boxes, there are lots of beautiful specially made window boxes to buy. Take a look at the best window planter boxes on the market that will add some colour to your garden.
10 of the best window planter boxes
1 of 10Basic window planter basket
This large under-window planter box is made from heavy gauge flat steel and metal rod with black powder coating to prevent rusting and protect it from weather conditions. The included liner is made from natural coconut fibres and will help retain moisture after watering. Though it may look plain, flowers will grow beautifully in this well-drained container and quickly cover the basket. It also ties in nicely if you have matching hanging baskets. Two fixing slots on back of wall trough allow for easy fitting.
Size: 121 x 20 x 21cm
2 of 10Country window planter box
For a more country look, this picket fence-style planter is a lovely option. It comes in a variety of colours including, charcoal, lilac, green and brown. There are brackets to attach to a windowsill or balcony railing, but it would also look great as a planter on the ground. Made in Germany from UV-resistant recycled material, frost-resistant, optional drainage hole.
Size: 75 x 17x 15cm
3 of 10Concrete window planter
If you're going for a more modern or industrial look, how about this concrete plant pot made of fibre stone. Designed with reinforced fibre, this window planter is lightweight and easy to reposition. The frost-resistant material makes it resistant to scratches, scuffs and bad weather.
Size: 17 x 40 x 17cm
4 of 10Black window box
These window boxes are perfect for brightening up an often overlooked part of the garden. Featuring a matching saucer which clips onto the base and a handy opening for easy watering, keeping your plants healthy has never been easier. This item is also supplied with a rack so you can hang the trough on balconies/railings up to 6cm wide. Perfect for plants and windowsill herbs.
Size: 47 x 26 x 17cm
5 of 10Metal window box planter set, 2 piece
If you're looking for special flower boxes, this rain gutter-style window sill planter box is an excellent choice. The planting bowls are made of galvanised iron and can be used inside and outside. On the balcony, the terrace or in the garden, it makes an excellent home for plants and flowers.
Size: 16 x 53 x 12cm
Capacity: 7L
Drainage Holes: No
6 of 10Plastic window box planter set, 2 piece
This rattan planter is a versatile option that won't go out of style. Made from polyethene, it is hardwearing and weather resistant, but the rattan effect gives a softer look that will match beautifully if you have rattan furniture in your garden. The set includes one small flower pot and one large flower pot. There are hooks included to attach your flower pot to your windowsill or a railing.
Size: 50 x 17cm, and 43 x 13cm
7 of 10Personalised Garden Engraved Terracotta Window Pot
This personalised planter is a lovely gift idea for a loved one to grow beautiful flowers on their window sill and be reminded of you every time they look at it. The pot is frost resistant so it can be used inside or out. You can also opt to send the pot with herb or flower seeds.
Size: 32cm x 13cm
Drainage Holes: In base
8 of 10Portuguese tiled rectangular planter
Creating an oasis in your garden is very much on trend this season, and this tiled planter box is no exception. Bringing your holidays to you, this Portuguese-inspired window planter box is made from concrete for a reinforced, sturdy and strong planter.
Size: 39.4 x 13.4 x 13.3cm
Drainage Holes: No
9 of 10Heritage stone window box planter
This contemporary window box has been crafted from lightweight reinforced stone, making the planter sturdier and more durable. The matte surface of this planter makes it blend easily with both modern and classical gardens. Due to the size and weight, it's only available for curbside delivery.
Size: 17 x 50 x 17cm
Capacity: 14L
10 of 10Self-watering window planter
These quirky self-watering planters are perfect for those who aren't fans of daily watering. A unique passive hydroponic action creates an ideal balance of root zone oxygen and water, providing a healthy growing environment for your plants. They even have a helpful window which shows you when they're running dry, so you know when and how much you need to water your plant - perfect for a sunny spot. Available in brown, green and orange, or as a mixed selection.
Size: 27 x 12 x 14.5cm
How to make a wooden window planter box
It's very simple to make a wooden window planter box - all you need is some spare wood, a saw, a drill and screws, and some protective outdoor paint.
Measure your window and cut your wood to size
Bear in mind the weight of your planter once filled, so don't be tempted to go too big! You can always make two smaller window boxes to sit side by side.
Screw the sides and base of your window box together
At this stage, you can also add a lining to help protect the interior of your window box from moisture. Coco liner, hanging basket liner or even plastic are good options for this.
Make a drainage hole
There aren't many plants that enjoy sitting in a puddle!
Paint your window box
Remember to use outdoor paint that will protect the wood.
Hang your window box
See all of the best tips for hanging and securing your window box planter below.
Get planting!
Using a variety of bulbs, perennials and bedding plants will create an exciting display of colour all year
How to secure a window box planter
In the video below contractor Tom Silva explains the different bolts that can be used to secure a window box planter in a brick wall, and shows how to measure the window and attach your window box.