Chinese philosophy cherishes the art of creating blissful surroundings to nurture balance and well-being. And Feng Shui is one of the most prominent examples of this.
Feng Shui, which translates to ‘wind and water,’ is an ancient Chinese practice that’s been around for over 4,000 years. The whole concept revolves around a life force energy called Qi that gracefully flows through all aspects of everyone’s life. And its core principles still resonate today.
Feng Shui practitioners believe Qi interacts with the built environment and surrounding. It can be influenced by the placement of furniture, the use of colors, and other elements like plants and flowers. Having a flourishing window box garden is such a great way to bring those yin and yang vibes into your home. Not only does it enhance your home’s decor, but it also fosters a sense of tranquillity and connection with nature.
Let’s craft a beautiful window box garden, your very own Feng Shui delight. Here’s your step-by-step guide:
First thing off, we must do the math. Get the dimensions of your window(s) where you want to place your little botanical garden. Measure the width and height to ensure you select a box or container that fits perfectly in the space. No awkward gaps or overhang wanted here!
Next up, take note of how much sunlight hits your window throughout the day. Is it full sun, partial shade, or full shade? Sun exposure is important for picking the right plants as they vary in light requirements. Also, natural light represents uplifting yang energy in Feng Shui.
You’ve got your window size and spot scoped out; now it’s time to choose a window box. There are abundant options – wood, vinyl, terra cotta, you name it. Here’s a quick overview of each:
- Wood: Natural wooden window boxes offer a classic, rustic charm and are a popular choice for traditional gardeners. They also provide excellent insulation for plant roots. In Feng Shui, wood represents growth, vitality, and abundance.
- Vinyl: This material presents an appealing advantage: its waterproof nature. Vinyl window boxes protect your plants from moisture damage. Whether facing rain showers or intense sunlight, they maintain their integrity without the need for frequent upkeep.
- Terra cotta: This charming container exudes a natural allure, seamlessly blending with various architectural styles and garden themes. From a Feng Shui perspective, terra cotta embodies stability, nourishment, and grounding.
It’s also essential to note that drainage holes are a must-have to prevent your plants from getting waterlogged roots. No one wants a swampy situation! Size-wise, shoot for something roomy enough to let your greenery flourish but not too massive that it becomes a windowsill hog.
We’re heading to the exciting part – choosing plants! And we’re not limiting ourselves to traditional ones. Aromatic herbs for window boxes alongside the vibrant flowers and lush foliage add a delightful twist to your gardening adventure.
Here’s a handy tip on what plants and herbs are best to cultivate in your window box:
- Petunias: You’ll love petunias with their bright, cheerful blooms. In Feng Shui, they represent joy and positivity. Adding them to your window box garden may uplift everyone’s mood around.
- Coleus: This plant is known for its vibrant, eye-catching foliage that comes in a wide range of colors and patterns. Some believe that have colorful plants may spark feelings of joy, creativity, and the freedom to express oneself. This aligns with the concept of Feng Shui.
- Ivy: Ivy is highly valued in Feng Shui for its ability to purify the air. Its cascading vines symbolize growth and abundance, attracting prosperity and vitality to your window box garden.
- Basil: Can you imagine opening your window and getting hit with whiffs of that intoxicating, slightly peppery basil aroma? This herb is said to promote feelings of peace and contentment. Above all, nothing beats having your own gourmet herb garden.
- Sage: This fragrant herb is prized for its culinary versatility, which adds flavor to meats, veggies, and teas and for its cleansing properties. Some believe it can freshen the air, bring balance, and promote a sense of well-being.
These plants and herbs can turn your window box garden into a hub of calmness and positivity. So go ahead and liven up your space with a carefully curated selection that aligns with the ambiance you wish to create in your home.
It’s time to get your hands dirty! If you’re one of the 185 million people who love gardening, then this is a treat for you.
First, fill your window box with some good-quality potting mix. Leave a little room at the top for watering – you don’t want the soil spilling over when you give your plants a drink.
Next is when the magic happens! Arrange your chosen plants in the window box, keeping the taller ones toward the back and the trailing ones toward the front. Dig some holes in the soil (big enough for the plant’s roots) and gently tuck them in. Once all your plants are snug as a bug, fill in any gaps with more potting mix and give them a gentle pat down.
The next step is to quench those plants’ thirst! Give your window box garden a good soak after planting to settle the soil and make sure your plants are hydrated. Check the moisture levels regularly and water as needed – just don’t drown them. And don’t forget to feed your plants. A little fertilizer every two to three weeks goes a long way in keeping them happy and thriving.
Now comes your responsibility: taking care of your garden! Keep an eye out for any pesky pests or signs of disease. Prune away any dead or wilting leaves to keep your plants looking their best. Regular maintenance ensures that your window box garden remains healthy and vibrant, providing you with endless joy and beauty.
Takeaway
There’s no denying that nature elements are health-giving. It’s like an instant pick-me-up. That’s why putting together your own little window box garden is such a fantastic idea if you want to invite some of those Feng Shui vibes into your home. With proper care, you’ll forever enjoy the breath of fresh air and the lovely design of your window garden.