Garden

DIY: Herb Windowbox Planter

This windowbox is a great way to nestle a herb garden into any space.  

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Credit: Terry Guscott

Top choices for this herb windowbox are creeping or upright rosemary, silver thyme, sage, marjoram, lavender and chives.

This windowbox is a great way to nestle a herb garden into any space. The only rule is that it must get at least six hours of sun. The warmth will encourage the herbs to grow fast and give a bountiful harvest. Regular watering and twice-weekly application of liquid kelp or fish fertilizer during summer months will also help to keep the herbs fresh, tender, tasty and fragrant.

What you will need:
1. An old window; you can get these at salvage yards, garage sales or flea markets.

2. A window box that is the appropriate length for your window and about 20 to 25 cm (8 to 10 in.) deep. Be sure it has drainage holes.

3. Sterilized planter-box mix and granular organic fertilizer.

4. Drill, drill bit and galvanized screws (the combined depth of your window and the rear wall of the box will determine the length of screws).

5. Herbs in 4-inch pots. For every 15 cm (6 in.) of windowbox, choose one herb. For example, if your container is 90 cm (3 ft.) long, you can easily set in 6 herbs. Top choices are creeping or upright rosemary, silver thyme, sage, marjoram, lavender and chives. Other favourites are parsley, dill, mint, basil and cilantro.

How to:
1. Attach the window box to the window, using two galvanized screws in each corner and two in the centre.

2. Fill the planter box 2⁄3 full of sterilized soil, then mix in the manufacturer’s recommended rate of organic fertilizer. 

3. Nestle in your herbs in any order. Top up your soil and water well.

4. You are now ready to place your garden wherever you choose. If you are attaching it to a structure, be sure to secure both the window and the box to give it adequate support.

For extra fun consider these options:

  • Paint your window box a vibrant colour.
  • Add showy edible flowers, such as pansies or nasturtiums.
  • Instead of herbs, consider ivy, sedums, or dwarf perennials.
  • Paint the window glass with stained glass paint.
  • Decorate it seasonally using florist pics and ribbon.