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Railing
Mounts -
Considering
weight, water and weather.
Before you put
up any outdoor railing or window box, give some thought to the three
W's: weight, water, and weather. Large planter boxes can weigh over
100 pounds, once they're filled and watered. Water drips can stain
walls over periods of time. Woods and metals can be worn out quickly
by extreme weather like blizzards, snow storms, and heat.
What you'll
need: Window box, Railing brackets, Wire, Pliers, Hardwood 2x4s
that have been weather treated.
Study the railing
to see exactly where the box will go. You'll want to find the areas
where the railing can take the most weight.
Small window
boxes are easy: many gardening stores now carry special brackets
that will fit over a metal or hardwood railing.
Wide railings
are even easier: place the box on top of the railing. Run the wire
from the railing, under the box, and back over to the railing. Twist
and knot the wire ends for security - you may need pliers to do
this. Short boxes will need this done only at the ends; long boxes
will need an extra wire in the middle.
Quick change
options - You can set up your window box so that your can change
flowers at a whim. Get very small pots with flowers already started
in them. Plant the whole pot into the window box, and cover with
potting soil. When you want a change, just replace the smaller pot!
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