Below we are going to discuss what to grow in window boxes placed in a location that faces north, there are many plants that will thrive in this type of environment. We will also provide tips on how to care for them to keep them as healthy as possible!
Why are plants in window boxes that face north harder to care for?
Plants in window boxes that face north are somewhat more difficult to care for, primarily because they do not get as much sun as their fellow south and east windows. Ideally the soil in the window box needs to be constantly moist (not waterlogged), as they may not grow as buoyantly. Windows that face north also tend to be cooler than other windows, so the plants will need to be able to tolerate more harsh temperatures. However there are some that do well in window boxes that face north but they tend to be more difficult to care for than others. If you are thinking about planting in a window that’s facing north, make sure that you are prepared to water more often and to provide them with the appropriate care that they growingly deserve!
What plants make great window boxes that face north?
With a little research you will create a lovely window box that will add depth and character. Here is a breakdown of some recommendations to plant:
Annuals (it’s in the name!) – are plants that live for one growing season until they sadly wilt away . Many annuals, such as lobelia, can tolerate cooler temperatures and even frost, making them a great choice to plant in window boxes that face north.
Perennials are also a top choice to plant as they live for two or more growing seasons. Some perennials, such as the cardinal flower, can tolerate shade that’s partial, making them another good plant choice for window boxes.
Then we move onto succulents – these water-wise plants come in an abundance of variety, shapes and sizes. Many succulents, such as sedum, can tolerate full sun to partial shade, making them a great choice to plant in window boxes that face north.
Lobelia – These purple or blue flowers bloom from early summer until late Autumn. They prefer cool weather and are able to tolerate frosty conditions better than most other annual flowers.
Geraniums – Another popular choice of flowers for window boxes, geraniums come in a wide range of colours including red, white, blue and pink. They bloom from mid-summer until early frost and are tolerant of both locations with full sun or slight shade.
Pansies – These happy flowers come in a rainbow of colors and are annuals that bloom from Spring until late Autumn. They tolerate both cool weather and frosty weather, making them a superb choice for window boxes.
Which plants are best for different climates in a window box that’s facing north?
In a window box that’s facing north, the plants that achieve the most are those that can tolerate shade and don’t require much sunlight. Some more examples include: Hostas, Ferns, Impatiens, and Begonias. These thrive in shady conditions and will add some colour to your window box and the Wax Begonia is one of the most popular bedding plants because of its durability and attractive flowers. If you live in a colder climate, you may want to consider adding some evergreens to your window box for year-round interest including throughout Winter. Some examples of evergreen plants that do well in shady conditions are: Boxwood, Holly and yew. Evergreens are also great for providing winter interest when other plants have died back or gone dormant for the season. So if you’re looking for something to add to your window box, consider these shade-loving plant options.
A few personal favorites of ours to plant in a window box that’s facing north are:
Lamium (Dead Nettle)
Pachysandra (Spurge)
Polygonatum (Solomon’s Seal)
Asarum (Wild Ginger)
There are many fantastic options out there that you can play around with. We all have different ideas and visions, so set some time aside to get experimental with these window boxes! Go north!
What are the benefits of having a window box that’s facing north?
The lack of light means that the plants in a window box that’s facing north will grow speedier and be healthier. Window boxes that aren’t facing north also tend to be less humid, so they will not get as wet and diminished. Finally, windows boxes that face north will stay cool in the summer, so they will not get as stressed from the heat. We like no stress!
So how do you care for your window box that’s facing north?
When watering your window box, be sure to check the soil before adding water. Window boxes that are facing north tend to dry out far more slowly than other areas in your home. Allow the top layer of soil in the box to dry out before watering again. North face window box plants also benefit from a humidifier or pebble tray filled with water beneath the potting mix. This helps to increase the humidity around the plant and prevents the leaves from drying out.
Fertilise your plants every two weeks with a half-strength solution of an all-purpose fertiliser. Window boxes that are facing north do not receive as much light as other areas in your home, so they will not need as much food to stay healthy. Be sure to follow the directions on the fertiliser package for best results.
Would you like to know more about our window boxes?
If you have any questions about our window box planters, or if you would like to learn more about the advantages of a metal window box, then please do not hesitate to contact us. We would be more than happy to assist you further.
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