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Glam Journal

Do wooden window boxes need liners?

Author

Ava White

Updated on March 07, 2026

Do wooden window boxes need liners?

Liners are a necessity if you want to keep your wood window boxes or other wood containers. Poke holes in the bottom for drainage–and of course, the window boxes should have holes as well.

Do wooden window boxes rot?

But ordinary wooden boxes rot out in just a few years, and plastic window boxes won’t rot but don’t look as nice as the traditional wood box. Buy a plastic window box at a home or garden center.

What are flower boxes under windows called?

A window box (sometimes called a window flower box or window box planter) is a type of flower container for live flowers or plants in the form of a box attached on or just below the sill of a window. It may also be used for growing herbs or other edible plants.

Should flower boxes have drain holes?

Holes in the bottom of the planter are essential for proper drainage. The holes give the excess water an escape route so it doesn’t stay in the soil. Many flower pots come with only one drainage hole. If the container is made from a material you can drill, add two or three more drainage holes.

Does my planter box need a bottom?

Why You Should Line the Bottom of Your Garden Beds It’s not mandatory to create a raised garden bed floor, but experienced gardeners recommend it for several reasons: Prevent weeds from growing up from the ground below. Stop burrowing pests like voles, moles, and gophers from entering the raised beds.

Are flower boxes bad for House?

Check for Damage Wooden boxes will last for several years when made with moisture-resistant cedar or redwood, but even they will rot eventually. If the boards of the window box are separating from each other or feel soft to the touch, water damage is present and could be causing damage to the home.

What wood is best for window boxes?

Because of their rot-resistant qualities, cedar and redwood are two of the best choices of wood for window boxes. Smooth high-grade cedar has a fine grain that looks good natural or stained.

Do wooden planters need drainage holes?

A wooden planter should have drainage holes in the bottom to prevent water-logged soil. If the holes are too large, though, some of the soil itself may be washed out of the container, so cover the bottom of the planter with landscaping fabric to prevent soil loss.

How do you waterproof a wooden box?

For the best results, use wood planter boxes made from cedar or redwood lumber, which are naturally water resistant. Using a waterproofing caulk and waterproofing sealant on naturally water-resistant wood creates an almost impermeable environment.

How long do wood planters last?

Most wood species can last between 5 to 15-years outside. Wood deteriorates quickly if exposed to water/moisture and sunlight.

Do window boxes damage your house?

Window boxes are meant to add color and beauty to your home. However, if not cared for or installed properly, a window box can cause water damage to the wall where it hangs that will need to be repaired.

How do you make a window flower box?

Amp up your home’s curb appeal with a flower-filled window box that you can make yourself. Mark and drill 1/16-inch holes through the face of the front board at each end and about every 4 inches all along the joint line about 3/8-inch from the edge of the board. Set the board into place, mark the screw holes on the bottom board, and drill starter holes into the board edge at the marked points. Repeat for the back and side pieces.

How to build a window box planter?

The width of the windows determines the final length of the planter.

  • Use brackets to support the weight of the box and the dirt that will fill it.
  • Certain types of wood aren’t suitable for this project. Pine rots easily and oak turns black when wet,so they are not good choices.
  • After determining the full width of the planter,cut front and back boards to the appropriate length.
  • Mark lines with square and use a belt sander to bevel corners at a 45-degree angle — this will reduce splintering.
  • Cut a slot at the end of the two boards to adjoin sides and increase strength.
  • Cut scrap wood left over from cutting down width,and already 7″ high for end pieces. These pieces are cut to 7″ long.
  • Measure the bottom piece for snug fit. Cut to proper width and length. Apply a bead of glue inside the bottom edges of planter.
  • Drill drainage holes in bottom,spacing about 12 inches apart,beginning about 6 inches from each end.
  • After the box planter is assembled,cut brackets to support the weight of the planter,dirt and plants and secure to the home’s exterior.
  • Once the planter is completed,a finish can be chosen to protect the wood and add color if desired.
  • Position each bracket where needed to provide good support here there’s one at the middle and each end.
  • Add remaining brackets and place box atop the brackets. Add dirt and plants or potted plants as desired.
  • How to make a wooden planter box?

    1) Gather Tools. Building a planter box from wood requires basic tools such as a saw, power drill and sander. You’ll also need screws, a screen and a paint brush. 2) Select Lumber. Selecting the right lumber for your DIY planter project is essential. You’ll want treated or untreated wood that resists rot, mold and will last under outdoor conditions. 3) Plan and Cut Planter. The size of your finished planter is up to you. Use wood boards that are 5 to 10 inches wide. 4) Assemble Planter. The DIY planter box will have to be sturdy enough to hold plants and wet soil. It’s important that you fasten the boards together properly and securely. 5) Sand & Add Drainage Screen. Sand any rough edges on your planter box. If you’re considering a bare, natural wood look, give the planter an overall sanding. 6) Paint or Stain Planter Box. Protecting your DIY planter from moisture, mildew spores and UV damage will keep it looking its best. 7) DIY Planter Tips. Place your new planter in place and adjust the angle so that the box gets the correct amount of sun.

    What is a flower box?

    A flower box is a type of container in the form of a planter or box that is usually placed outdoors and used for displaying live plants and flowers, but it may also be used for growing herbs or other edible plants.