When you want to start gardening in containers, a potting mix is a must to have. Planting mixes which contain no soil have an excellent drainage without losing the water-holding capacity. Whatever you have or will have as planters, just make sure that your window boxes or hanging baskets have drainage holes. Planting plants in containers which let the water logged in the bottom of the planter is not good for the plant’s root and may lead to the plant’s death.

Hanging baskets are usually made from plastic or wire. Plastic baskets have the advantage of being inexpensive, slower to dry out, light, and easy to plant. However, it will easily crack with age especially in changing weather. Wire baskets, on the other hand, serve better as decorative items and can hold heavier plants. Window boxes come in wood, metal, fiberglass, and plastic. Same as plastic baskets, plastic window boxes are lighter and inexpensive. However, wood planters are more impressive and elegant.

Keep in mind also before you set up a window box or hanging basket that they will need a strong support system. Calculate everything including the extra weight which will be gained when the plants are watered. You don’t want to see your beautiful garden turn to a mess just because you did not pay attention to the support system.

1. Add soil once you hang your window box properly. You may want to try to use a mix of soil called “potting soil” which will get you organic and low-release fertilizer soil.
2. Do not fill the box fully with soil. Leave about an inch from the top. You will need about 16 quarts of soil for a planter which is 30-inch long and 6-inch deep.
3. Pick the plants which will you grow. Location is the crucial point in this one. Take one full day to observe the light on your window to determine whether you can grow a plant that needs full sun, or the one which only needs shady light. Grows are surprisingly to grow well in window box planters too.
4. Buy your plants from a garden center. You will get healthier and fresher plants if you get your plants from a small garden store or nursery.
5. Arrange your plants. Make sure that you have arranged your plants in a good distance so that they have enough room to grow.
6. Do not forget to water your plants. You have to water your plants everyday in the summer. Make it before 10 am since it is better for the plants.