HAVE YOU EVER wanted a window box blooming with color in front of your kitchen window? Boxes can be bought ready-made or you can build your own. Just make sure it's securely fastened to your house. Good drainage is essential: Drill some drainage holes and put a one-inch layer of rocks in the bottom of the box. Add enough compost and good potting soil around the plants so they sit firmly. Window boxes look their best if they're crowded with plants. Start early in the spring with tulips or other blooming bulbs.

 Later, replace with summer flowers. Some great choices are geraniums, lavender, sweet alyssum, and ivy. Or you might want to plant herbs like sage, chives, thyme, and mint. Just open the kitchen window when you need some fresh herbs! Make sure to water and fertilize often. Don't be afraid to replace plants that have finished blooming with others. Mums are great in the fall, and if you leave the box out in winter, fill it with evergreens and pine cones.