What to Plant in a Planter Box for Maximum Growth and Beauty: A Comprehensive Guide

What to Plant in a Planter Box?

In a planter box, you can plant a variety of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers.

Some recommended options for planter boxes include tomatoes, peppers, squash, cucumbers, sweet potatoes, strawberries, watermelon, blueberries, carrots, and raspberries.

Additionally, vegetables like arugula, basil, broccoli, bush beans, cabbage, celery, chives, eggplant, garlic, kale, leeks, lettuce, onions, peas, potatoes, radishes, rutabagas, and spinach can thrive in planter boxes that are less than 24 inches deep.

It is important to use well-drained soil and ensure proper drainage in the planter box to prevent waterlogging.

Consider the available space, sunlight exposure, and water source when choosing what to plant in a planter box.

Key Points:

  • Planter boxes can accommodate a variety of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers.
  • Recommended options for planter boxes include tomatoes, peppers, squash, cucumbers, sweet potatoes, strawberries, watermelon, blueberries, carrots, and raspberries.
  • Vegetables like arugula, basil, broccoli, bush beans, cabbage, celery, chives, eggplant, garlic, kale, leeks, lettuce, onions, peas, potatoes, radishes, rutabagas, and spinach can thrive in planter boxes less than 24 inches deep.
  • Well-drained soil and proper drainage are essential for preventing waterlogging in planter boxes.
  • When choosing what to plant in a planter box, consider the available space, sunlight exposure, and water source.

Did You Know?

1. Basil leaves have been considered a natural mosquito repellent, making them a great choice to plant in a planter box on your patio or balcony.

2. The vibrant purple flowers of the verbena plant not only add beauty to your planter box, but they are also edible and can be used to garnish salads or desserts.

3. Did you know that marigolds, commonly planted in planter boxes for their vibrant colors, are also known for their pest-repellent properties? These flowers naturally repel certain harmful insects like aphids and nematodes.

4. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option for your planter box, consider planting succulents like jade plants. Their unique ability to store water in their leaves makes them drought-tolerant and helps conserve water.

5. Adding a touch of nostalgia to your planter box could be done by planting forget-me-nots. These delicate blue flowers have a special meaning behind their name, symbolizing true love and fond memories.

Choosing The Right Soil Mix And Ensuring Adequate Drainage

When it comes to planting in a planter box, using a soil mix designed for planters and containers is highly recommended. These mixes are specifically formulated to provide the right balance of nutrients and aeration for successful plant growth. They often contain a combination of peat moss, vermiculite, compost, and perlite.

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In addition to choosing the right soil mix, it is essential to ensure that the planter box has adequate drainage. Excess water can lead to waterlogging, which can be detrimental to the health of plants. To prevent this, it is crucial to use well-drained soil and ensure that the planter box has drainage holes at the bottom. These holes allow excess water to escape and prevent water from pooling at the bottom of the container.

  • Use a soil mix designed for planters and containers
  • Ensure the planter box has adequate drainage
  • Use well-drained soil
  • Ensure the planter box has drainage holes at the bottom

Selecting The Right Size Planter Box For Your Space And Plants

The size of the planter box is a crucial factor to consider when planting. It is essential to choose a box that can accommodate the plants’ root systems and allow sufficient space for growth. Here are some guidelines to help you select the right planter box based on your specific needs:

  • Smaller spaces or plants with shallow root systems: If you have limited space or are growing plants like herbs or flowers with shallow root systems, a planter box less than 24 inches deep will work well. This size is also suitable for growing veggies like arugula, broccoli, chives, lettuce, and radishes.

  • Larger plants or plants with deeper root systems: For bigger plants or those with deeper root systems, such as tomatoes, peppers, or watermelons, a deeper planter box is required. In such cases, a 24-by-18-inch planter box would be an appropriate choice.

Remember to consider the available space you have and the specific needs of your plants when selecting a planter box.

  • For smaller spaces or shallow root systems:
  • Planter box less than 24 inches deep.
  • Suitable for herbs, flowers, and veggies like arugula, broccoli, chives, lettuce, and radishes.

  • For larger plants or deeper root systems:

  • Deeper planter box required.
  • Consider a 24-by-18-inch planter box.
  • Ideal for plants like tomatoes, peppers, or watermelons.

Note: The size of the planter box should be chosen based on the plants’ needs and the available space.

Ideal Sunlight And Water Proximity For Planter Box Placement

Sunlight is extremely important for the development of plants. To ensure the growth and health of your plants, it is essential to place planter boxes in an area that receives 6-8 hours of full sunlight every day. This allows the plants to undergo photosynthesis and thrive. However, it is worth noting that leafy crops such as lettuce or spinach can tolerate slightly less sunlight.

When deciding on the location of your planter box, it is also crucial to consider the proximity to a water source. Plants in containers often require more frequent watering compared to those planted in the ground. Having easy access to a nearby water source makes it more convenient to provide the necessary water to your plants on a regular basis.

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Recommended Patio Varieties For Planting In Planter Boxes

When it comes to selecting plants for your planter boxes, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some recommended patio varieties for different types of plants that can thrive in planter boxes:

  • Tomatoes: Tumbler, Tiny Tim, Red Robin, Manitoba
  • Peppers: Black Hungarian, Red Bulls Horn, Right on Red, Hungarian Hot Wax, Ancho
  • Squash: Shokichi Green Mini Kabocha, Raven or Bush Baby Zucchini
  • Cucumbers: Patio Snacker, Spacemaster, Tasty Green, Picolino
  • Sweet Potatoes: Vineless Puerto Rico, Vardaman
  • Strawberries: Rose Berries Galore, Tribute, Fresca
  • Watermelon: Solitaire, Sugar Baby, Black Beauty Mini
  • Blueberries: Pink Icing, Peach Sorbet, Jelly Bean
  • Carrots: Little Fingers, Romeo, Paris Market
  • Raspberries: Raspberry Shortcake, Heritage

Diy Gardening Project: Using Planter Boxes To Grow Edibles, Herbs, And Flowers

Now that you have learned about the various considerations when planting in a planter box, let’s discuss a DIY gardening project using these containers.

In collaboration with Kirsten Dunn, we planned and planted different plants in each container. For the square planter box, we chose a blueberry bush surrounded by spring flowers. This combination not only provides delicious berries but also adds a touch of color and beauty to your patio or garden.

In the rectangular planter box, we decided to create a “salad bar” with various vegetables for spring and summer. This allows you to have a fresh supply of greens right at your fingertips.

If you are interested in building your own planter boxes, we encourage you to check out Kirsten’s blog post for detailed instructions. The post includes a step-by-step planting guide and infographics to help you decide what to grow in your own containers.

planting in a planter box is a great way to maximize growth and beauty in your garden. By choosing the right soil mix, ensuring adequate drainage, selecting the right size planter box, considering sunlight and water proximity, and planting suitable varieties, you can create a thriving container garden that will bring joy and satisfaction for seasons to come.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is best to plant in a planter box?

When it comes to choosing what to plant in a planter box, you have a variety of options that thrive in containers. Some delicious and versatile choices include potatoes, chard, lettuce, cherry and bush tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, summer squash, Asian greens, and pole beans. All of these vegetables can be grown successfully in smaller spaces, making them ideal for planters. Whether you’re craving fresh salads, vibrant stir-fries, or homegrown tomatoes, these options will bring flavor and color to your container garden.

Can I grow flowers in a planter box?

Yes, planter boxes are an excellent option for growing flowers. Their portability and versatility make them ideal for cultivating a variety of floral species. With a planter box, you can easily add a touch of color and beauty to your patio or balcony by cultivating a range of flowers. Whether you prefer vibrant annuals or delicate perennials, the planter box provides the perfect environment for your floral desires. Plus, you have the freedom to move the planter box as needed, ensuring your flowers receive optimal sunlight and water conditions. So, go ahead and embrace the beauty of nature with a planter box filled with your favorite blossoms.

How many plants should be in a planter box?

The number of plants in a planter box depends on the size of the container. To create a visually appealing arrangement, it is recommended to use three or four plants in a 10 to 12-inch planter, four to six plants in a 14 to 16-inch planter, and six to eight plants in a 16 to 20-inch planter. This allows the plants to have enough space to grow without becoming too crowded, ensuring a well-balanced and thriving container garden.

How do you arrange a planter box?

To arrange a planter box, start by selecting the plants you want to include, considering whether you want annuals that bloom once or perennials that come back year after year. Next, choose a suitable location for your planter box, considering factors like sunlight and accessibility. When planting, begin with a focal flower that catches attention, followed by mid-height plants to add variety. Finally, incorporate cascading elements to create depth and interest. Remember to regularly water and care for your plants throughout the season to ensure their healthy growth.

References: 1, 2, 3, 4

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