Best Plants For Planter Boxes Full Sun

When it comes to gardening, planter boxes are a great way to add some greenery to your outdoor space without using up too much of your yard. But with so many plants to choose from, it can be tough to know which ones will thrive in full sun conditions. In this blog post, we'll discuss the best plants for planter boxes in full sun, as well as offer tips on how to care for them.

Best Plants for Planter Boxes in Full Sun

1. Petunias

Petunias are a classic choice for planter boxes in full sun. These annuals come in a variety of colors and will bloom all summer long if they're deadheaded regularly. They're also easy to care for - just make sure they get plenty of water and fertilizer.

How to Care for Petunias

To keep petunias looking their best, make sure they're planted in well-draining soil and receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage new growth, and fertilize every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

2. Marigolds

Marigolds are another popular choice for planter boxes in full sun. These annuals are known for their bright orange and yellow flowers, and they're great for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. They're also drought-tolerant, making them a good choice for hot, dry summers.

How to Care for Marigolds

To care for marigolds, make sure they're planted in well-draining soil and receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Water them deeply once a week, and deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage new growth.

3. Geraniums

Geraniums are another classic choice for planter boxes in full sun. These perennials come in a variety of colors and will bloom all summer long if they're deadheaded regularly. They're also easy to care for - just make sure they get plenty of water and fertilizer.

How to Care for Geraniums

To keep geraniums looking their best, make sure they're planted in well-draining soil and receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage new growth, and fertilize every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

4. Zinnias

Zinnias are a great choice for planter boxes in full sun. These annuals come in a variety of colors and shapes, and they're great for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. They're also drought-tolerant, making them a good choice for hot, dry summers.

How to Care for Zinnias

To care for zinnias, make sure they're planted in well-draining soil and receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Water them deeply once a week, and deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage new growth.

5. Succulents

Succulents are a great choice for planter boxes in full sun. These plants are known for their ability to store water in their leaves, making them drought-tolerant and low-maintenance. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can choose the ones that best fit your planter box.

How to Care for Succulents

To care for succulents, make sure they're planted in well-draining soil and receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Water them sparingly - only when the soil is completely dry. Fertilize once a month with a balanced fertilizer.

Other Plants That Thrive in Full Sun

In addition to the plants we've already mentioned, there are plenty of other options for planter boxes in full sun. Here are a few more to consider:

1. Salvia

Salvia is a perennial that comes in a variety of colors and shapes. It's great for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, and it's drought-tolerant.

How to Care for Salvia

To care for salvia, make sure it's planted in well-draining soil and receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Water it deeply once a week, and deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage new growth.

2. Lantana

Lantana is a shrub that comes in a variety of colors. It's great for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, and it's drought-tolerant.

How to Care for Lantana

To care for lantana, make sure it's planted in well-draining soil and receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Water it deeply once a week, and prune regularly to maintain its shape.

3. Verbena

Verbena is an annual that comes in a variety of colors. It's great for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, and it's drought-tolerant.

How to Care for Verbena

To care for verbena, make sure it's planted in well-draining soil and receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Water it deeply once a week, and deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage new growth.

Tips for Caring for Your Planter Box Plants

Now that you know which plants are best for planter boxes in full sun, here are a few tips on how to care for them:

1. Choose the Right Soil

Make sure your planter box is filled with well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. This will help your plants grow strong and healthy.

2. Water Regularly

Plants in planter boxes may need to be watered more often than those in the ground. Make sure you're checking the soil regularly and watering when it's dry to the touch.

3. Deadhead Spent Blooms

Deadheading spent blooms will encourage your plants to produce new growth and keep them looking their best.

4. Fertilize Regularly

Plants in planter boxes may also need to be fertilized more often than those in the ground. Make sure you're using a balanced fertilizer and following the instructions on the package.

5. Prune as Needed

If your plants to get too leggy or overgrown, don't be afraid to prune them back. This will help maintain their shape and encourage new growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I plant vegetables in a planter box in full sun?

Yes, you can! Some great options for planter box veggies in full sun include tomatoes, peppers, and herbs like basil and rosemary.

2. How often should I water my planter box plants?

This will depend on the type of plant and the climate you live in. As a general rule, you should check the soil regularly and water when it's dry to the touch.

3. Do I need to fertilize my planter box plants?

Yes, you should fertilize your planter box plants regularly - especially if they're in full sun. Use a balanced fertilizer and follow the instructions on the package.

4. Can I use regular garden soil in my planter boxes?

No, regular garden soil may not be well-draining enough for planter boxes. Make sure you're using well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter.

5. How do I know if my planter box plants are getting too much sun?

If your plants to wilt or look scorched, they may be getting too much sun. Move them to a shadier spot or provide some shade with an umbrella or shade cloth.

Now that you know which plants are best for planter boxes in full sun, as well as how to care for them, you're ready to create your own beautiful outdoor space! Just remember to choose the right soil, water regularly, deadhead spent blooms, fertilize as needed, and prune as needed. With a little bit of care and attention, your planter box plants will thrive and bring joy to your outdoor space.