Christmas window box display

BBC Gardeners' World Magazine

Published: Friday, 21 June 2019 at 2:04 pm

Learn how to make an attractive Christmas window box display, in our practical guide.

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This striking window box display will look fantastic from autumn through to spring, making it the perfect focal point at Christmas. The flower buds of the skimmia will gradually darken, while the cool conditions will keep the violas blooming over a long period. Why not add to the display with a few outdoor Christmas lights in December?

You Will Need

Skimmia japonica 'Rubella'
Photinia x fraseri 'Pink Marble'
Viola 'Antique Surprise' (5)
Ivy, Hedera helix (2)
Window box
Crocks
Multi-purpose, peat-free compost

Step 1

This is a heavy container, so position it where you want it before planting it up. Place polystyrene chunks or crocks in the base of the window box to aid drainage.

Step 2

Fill the window box two-thirds with multi-purpose compost.

Step 3

Plant up the window box, placing the taller plants at the back. Plant the ivies at the front of the box, ensuring they trail over the sides. Water the box thoroughly and allow to drain.

Kevin Smith says...
Keep the display neat by regularly deadheading the violas. This will encourage more blooms to come, ending up with a final flourish of flowers in the spring. Move the shrubs to the garden when they outgrow the planter.