A planter box is a great way to add some greenery to an outdoor space, whether a small patio or a large backyard. They provide an avenue to grow various plants, flowers, and vegetables in a contained area, similar to a garden bed, but making it easier to manage and care for the garden. This post discusses planter box ideas and inspiration to help create a stunning outdoor look as you begin your DIY planter box plan.
What do Planter Boxes Add to my Yard?
Planter box creativity can add several benefits to a yard, including:
Aesthetic value: Planter boxes can add visual interest to an outdoor space, whether filled with colorful flowers, lush herbs, or leafy vegetables.
Easier gardening: Planter boxes allow owners to grow plants in a contained area, which can be easier to manage and care for than a traditional garden. They're also a good option for people with limited space or mobility, as they can be placed on a patio or balcony.
Improved soil: If you have poor soil quality in your yard, using planter boxes allows you to fill the boxes with high-quality soil mix, giving your plants a better chance at thriving.
Pest control: Planter boxes can help reduce the risk of pests, as the contained area makes it easier to spot and address any issues.
Increased property value: Well-maintained planter boxes can add to the overall aesthetic appeal of a property and increase its value.
Planter boxes can be a great addition to any outdoor space, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits.
Where can I Install Planter Boxes?
Planter boxes can be installed in several locations as you create your planter box plan, including:
Patios: Planter boxes can be placed on a patio or balcony, providing a convenient garden in small outdoor spaces.
Windowsills: If you have a sunny window that gets good light, you can install planter boxes on the windowsill to grow herbs, flowers, or small vegetables.
Yards: A planter box can be placed in various locations in a yard, such as along a fence, in a corner, or as a border around a garden bed.
Rooftops: If you have a flat roof or a rooftop patio, planter boxes can be a great way to add some greenery to this space.
Courtyard: If you have a courtyard or other enclosed outdoor space, planter boxes add some greenery and create a more inviting atmosphere.
It's important to consider the size and location of the planter boxes when selecting a spot to install them. Ensure the location gets enough sunlight and is easily accessible for watering and maintenance.
What Plants are Best for Planter Boxes?
Many plants can be grown in planter boxes, and the best ones will depend on climate, the location of planter boxes, and personal preferences. Some good options for planter boxes include flowers like petunias, impatiens, marigolds, and geraniums. Other popular options include:
Fresh Herbs: Basil, rosemary, thyme, and mint are all excellent choices for planter boxes.
Vegetables: Lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers are all suitable for growing in planter boxes.
Succulents: These plants are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, making them a good choice for planter boxes in dry climates.
Fruit Trees: Dwarf fruit trees, such as citrus trees or dwarf apples, can be grown in large planter boxes.
When selecting plants for your planter boxes, choose ones that support the climate and have similar watering and sunlight needs to ensure they thrive. Mixing and matching plants to create an exciting and diverse garden is also good.
How to Add Curb Appeal with Lots of Flowers?
There are many ways to add curb appeal to a home with flowers.
Plant various colorful flowers on a bed along the front of the house. Choose a mix of annuals and perennials to ensure a continuous display of flowers throughout the year.
Plant a mix of flowers and shrubs in the front yard. This can create a more layered, exciting look and add structure to a landscape.
Use flower boxes or pots to add pops of color and create an inviting front porch or entryway. Choose plants that thrive in the location and have similar watering and sunlight needs.
Create a cottage garden look by planting a mix of flowers in an informal, free-flowing style. This can add a charming, romantic feel to the front yard. Flower boxes are a perfect addition to bringing color around your home.
Consider incorporating flowering vines, such as morning glories or sweet peas, into the landscape. These can add interest and charm to a plain fence or wall.
How to Make Modern-Looking Planter Boxes:
Here are a few ideas for making modern planter boxes:
Use sleek, clean lines: Choose planter boxes with a simple, modern design, such as ones made of wood with straight edges and minimal ornamentation.
Go for a monochromatic look: Use planter boxes in a single color, such as white or black, for a cohesive, modern look.
Use unusual materials: Consider using materials like metal, concrete, or fiberglass for your planter boxes to add a modern touch.
Choose a modern aesthetic: Look for plants with graphic, architectural shapes, such as succulents or grasses, to create a modern look in your planter boxes.
Incorporate modern features: Use planter boxes with built-in drainage systems or self-watering features to add a modern touch to your outdoor space.
Remember, the key to achieving a modern look with your planter boxes is to keep the design simple and focus on clean lines and unusual materials. Then, choose plants that complement this aesthetic to complete the look.
Best Ideas for Planter Boxes:
Here are a few ideas for planter boxes:
Vertical Planter Box: These are an excellent option for small spaces, as they allow you to grow various plants in a small area. You can create a vertical garden by attaching planter boxes to a wall or fence or using a freestanding vertical planter.
Raised Planter Box: These are a good choice for areas with poor soil, as you can fill the boxes with high-quality soil mix to give your plants a better chance at thriving. Raised planter boxes can also make it easier to reach your plants if you have mobility issues.
Tiered Planter Box: Tiered boxes can add interest to your front yard curb appeal, as you can use different levels to create a layered look with your plants. For example, you can use tiered planter boxes to create a mini-staircase effect or stack them horizontally for a more horizontal look.
Repurposed Planter Box: Think outside the box and use old pallets, wine barrels, or bits of scrap wood and lumber to create unique planter boxes. This is a great front yard landscaping idea to add character to your outdoor space and upcycled materials that might otherwise go to waste.
Built-in Planter Box: Incorporate planter boxes into the design of your outdoor space by building them into a deck or patio. This can create a cohesive look and allow you to easily incorporate plants into your outdoor living area.
Trellis Planter Box: Similar to a Vertical Planter Box, a Trellis Planter Box is free from attachment. With a stand-alone garden bed and an upward trellis, it provides a perfect planter bed to grow climbing vines, flowers, or edibles.
Can I Make my Planter Boxes?
Yes, you can make your DIY planter boxes! Here are a few steps to get you started:
Determine the size and shape of your planter boxes. Next, consider where you'll be placing the boxes and the type of plants you'll be growing.
Choose your materials. You can use various materials to make your planter boxes, including wood, metal, concrete, or plastic. Remember that some materials, such as wood, may need to be treated to withstand the elements.
Cut your materials to size. Use a saw to cut your materials to the desired size and shape. If you're using wood, smooth the edges with sandpaper to prevent splinter and use wood glue if using scrap wood to assemble your planter box.
Assemble the boxes. Use screws, nails, or glue to hold your planter boxes together. You can also use wood screws to create a more secure hold.
Add drainage holes. Add drainage holes to the bottom of your planter boxes to prevent your plants from becoming waterlogged. You can use a drill to create the holes or a screw or nail to poke them through.
Fill the boxes with soil. Once your planter boxes are assembled, fill them with a high-quality soil mix and add your plants.
Making your planter box can be a fun and rewarding DIY project, allowing you to customize the size and style of your boxes to fit your specific needs as you come up with planter ideas and a building plan. Just be sure to use sturdy materials and follow proper safety precautions when working with tools.
How Modern Aspect Can Help
If you need help with where to start with your planter boxes, Modern Aspect can help spark your creativity and give you some direction.
We can give you an idea of what plants work well in that particular planter box style. This can be especially helpful if you're new to gardening and unsure what to grow.
Planter boxes can be a great way to add greenery to a small outdoor space, and we help you find the best way to use your space efficiently. Get in touch for more details!