A garden window works just like a greenhouse. It’s made of the same structure, and it’s aimed to function just like one. It can be installed in any room; the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, or store. Normal windows will allow light and heat, but a garden window allow optimum penetration of sunlight that is suitable for plant growth. They also have sliding panels that can be opened to allow the entry of air. They are also attractive and are made of durable materials.
Benefits of a Garden Window
1. It Allows the Entry of Light in A House
A garden window protrudes towards the outer part of the house and allows the entry of light. The outwards protrusion enables the window to capture more light, compared to other types of windows.
Natural light cuts down on lighting expenses.
2. Provides Ventilation
A garden window has sliding panels that can be opened, to allow the entry of air. This is particularly useful in the kitchen, where smoke can build up quickly. Smell built up in the kitchen is also another problem that can easily be solved by opening the window, and enjoy some fresh air.
3. You Can Grow A Kitchen Garden Near It
You don’t have to buy herbs from grocery shops all the time. Grow potted herbs and place them near your garden window, and be assured of fresh herbs all year round. The larger the window, the more plants you will be able to grow.
You can grow decorative flowers near it
4. It Makes Your Indoor Space Beautiful
Apart from offering functionality, a garden window also makes a house beautiful. The outward protrusion makes it stand out from other types of windows. You can enjoy the view of your landscape or that of your neighborhood through it.
5. Adds Value to Your House
Garden windows are not very common. If you intend to resell your house at some point, instating the window will increase its value. Prospective customers will also be attracted by it and will be willing to spend more.
How to Maximize the Space around Your Garden Window
Many varieties of plants will require ample sunlight to thrive. You may have a single-window, but too many plants you want to grow. I such a scenario, you can make use of the window by maximizing on the available space through the following
1. Use hanging baskets
Hang the baskets in the ceiling using hooks. Apart from offering a space for growing your plants, they also add beauty in indoor spaces. They come in a variety of shapes and designs. They are also made of different materials such as woven and plastic. You can decide to use either a small or large hanging basket.
However, don’t use small baskets for growing large plants. They will overgrow it and will require to be repotted. Small ones also require frequent watering compared to the large ones. Just like pots, hanging baskets need to have drainage holes, so that the plants will not get waterlogged.
2. Install Shelves
Add shelves around your window by installing shelves. Install them strategically so that they won’t block light from getting in. You can buy ready-made shelves, or hire a carpenter to make one for you.
3. Make Use of Plant Stands
Plant stands are available in different materials such as wood and metal. They also come in different designs and shapes. To maximize more on the available space, use a multilevel stand since it allows the display of several potted plants.
Which Plants Can You Grow In A Garden Window?
Not every plant will grow properly near a window. However, below are some of the plants that will thrive in it, and you will not experience problems with them.
1. Thyme
Thyme is hardy and adds flavor to various dishes such as soups. Thyme requires sun to thrive, and placing it near a garden window is enough.it can be grown from seed and will take only a few weeks to germinate. Thyme does not like too much water. Grow it in a pot with drainage holes, and add potting soil together with peat moss.
2. Chives
Chives are widely used for culinary purposes. They taste more like onion, and some people use them instead of onions. They also make good salads addition. You can grow chives from seeds, and they don’t require special treatment. Just like thyme and rosemary, chives don’t need a lot of water. They will benefit from a water-soluble fertilizer for better growth.
3. Rosemary
Rosemary requires exposure to the sun to grow properly. A garden window gives it sufficient light it requires. It has a strong flavor that makes it a good herb for different dishes such as meat. Grow it in a pot with drainage holes. Use well-draining soil or potting soil.
Rosemary does not like soggy conditions. Only add water when the surface of the soil feels dry. Since it’s not a heavy feeder, it’s not mandatory to add fertilizer, but it will benefit from additional foliar sprays.
Always open your window to allow the entry of air and promote air circulation, since poor air circulation can result in the herb developing diseases.
4. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a succulent that doesn’t need regular maintenance for proper growth. A garden window provides aloe Vera with the light and warmth it requires to grow correctly.
5. Jade
Jade is a beautiful plant that will do well indoors near a garden window. It tolerates drought and doesn’t require frequent watering.
6. Peace Lily
Peace Lily makes indoor space look inviting and purifies the air by removing harmful toxins.it is hardy, and will tolerate dry conditions.
7. Jasmine
Jasmine is available in several varieties, such as white jasmine. Since they prefer indirect sunlight, growing them near a garden window will be a suitable option. Jasmine requires frequent watering and misting from time to time.
8. Coleus
coleus is available in different varieties. Some varieties have orange foliage, while others have yellow, or purple. Only water coleus when the soil feels dry. Add a water-soluble fertilizer to your plants at least once in a month.
A garden window offers too many benefits. It makes a house beautiful, allows the entry of natural light, and provides space for growing indoor plants. You can install a large or small window, according to the size of your wall, or the use of the window.
Frequently Asked Questions
Just like other types of windows, a garden window may allow leakage due to various factors such as cracking or poor installation. Ensure the window is installed by a professional to avoid problems. Also take care of it, to prevent cracking.
The materials used for making garden windows are insulating and are more energy-efficient than those used to make normal windows.
A garden window can be installed in any room of a house. You can grow plants that absorb toxins in your bedroom near the window. It will also provide natural lighting and make the room appear larger.
Vacuum your window from time to time. Also, you can dip a cloth in a mixture of water and liquid soap, and then use it to clean the window.
