There’s a reason why summer is the best time of year, especially on the water. If you’re lucky enough to have a dock, why not make the most of it by adding a splash of color and life? Floating garden boxes offer a unique way to transform your dock into a lush, vibrant retreat. 

Now available with the Connect-A-Dock system, Schwig’s floating garden boxes can help you transform your dock from dull and boring, to more lively and colorful. Whether you’re looking to add ornamental beauty or harvest some fresh produce right by the water, Schwig’s can help. The right plants can turn your dock into a floating oasis—perfect from late spring through the summer. 

Why Floating Garden Boxes Are a Game-Changer for Your Dock 

Floating garden boxes are more than just eye candy. They’re functional, low-maintenance, and designed to thrive in the sunny, open-air conditions found on docks. Unlike traditional planters on land, these floating garden boxes are sturdy and weather-proof; they can hold up to intense conditions like heat and cold over time. Plus, these garden boxes stay securely in place while providing the perfect environment for a variety of plants.

But it’s not just the practical reasons that make these garden boxes the right choice for boat owners with a green thumb. Aesthetically, plants soften the hard lines of docks and boat slips, making them appear more natural looking. The greenery and flowers create a welcoming atmosphere that elevates any waterside hangout, and gives it a cozy and curated vibe, especially while relaxing at the end of the day. Plus, the gentle movement of plants on the water adds a dynamic element that brings a little something extra to your boating area.   

Now, let’s dive into the best plants for your floating garden boxes this summer.

1. Flowers for Color and Charm

• Petunias: These sun-loving annuals are perfect for docks. They come in a wide variety of colors and bloom all summer long with minimal maintenance.

• Geraniums: Hardy and bright, geraniums thrive in containers and add a classic splash of red, pink, or white.

• Marigolds: Not only do they bring warm, sunny colors, but marigolds also help repel pests, making them ideal companions for vegetables.

• Verbena: This low-growing flower cascades beautifully over the edge of boxes, creating a soft, flowing effect.

These flowering plants love the sun and don’t mind a bit of breeze, making them ideal candidates for dockside life. When picking flowers, make sure they can stand up to the sunlight (or lack thereof) on your dock. Also take into consideration factors like wind and areas where kids might be playing frequently. Flowers that can withstand slightly harsher conditions than protected environments on land will be your best bet when incorporating them into your dock’s design. 

2. Fruits and Vegetables You Can Snack On

Yes, you can grow food on your dock! Floating garden boxes are great for compact edible plants that love sun and don’t need deep soil.

• Cherry Tomatoes: These small, sweet fruits thrive in containers and ripen throughout the season—perfect for picking while you lounge by the water.

• Strawberries: Their compact growth makes them an excellent choice for floating boxes. Plus, kids love harvesting these juicy red berries.

• Peppers: From bell peppers to mild jalapeños, these colorful veggies bring heat to your summer dishes and beauty to your garden.

• Bush Beans: Fast-growing and productive, beans do well in container environments and add lush green foliage to your setup.

With these edible plants, your dock becomes both a relaxing escape and a mini farmers’ market. You can grow fruits and vegetables for dinner or healthy snacks. Enjoy picking from your very own garden at the end of the day! You can even incorporate some of the fruits and vegetables into your beverages or appetizer spread during happy hour. 

3. Leafy Foliage for Texture and Shade

For balance and a touch of drama, leafy plants add rich texture and depth to your dockside garden.

• Coleus: With its vibrant, multicolored leaves, coleus makes a bold statement in shady corners or as a border.

• Hostas (if there’s partial shade): These lush, leafy plants add volume and elegance and can thrive in dappled light near overhangs or dock furniture.

• Herbs like Basil and Mint: These leafy edibles offer both form and function—adding greenery and flavor to your outdoor cooking.

These foliage plants round out your floating garden and keep the eye moving with interesting shapes and hues. The deep greens give your dock an earthy aesthetic that looks fresh and inviting. With proper care, your plants can thrive all season long and turn your dock into a thriving gardenscape. 

Ready to Beautify Your Dock?

Whether you’re sprucing up a fishing dock or creating a chill hangout zone on the lake, floating garden boxes are the ultimate summer upgrade. They offer a creative, sustainable way to connect with nature while enhancing the visual appeal of your waterfront space. Plus, they can make every gardener’s dream come true. 

Schwig’s floating garden boxes are designed specifically for dock life—durable, buoyant, and built to last through the seasons. Even better, they integrate seamlessly with the Connect-A-Dock system, so you can attach and reposition them with ease as your needs (or mood) change.

Bring color, life, and a touch of the garden to your waterside retreat. Shop Schwig’s floating garden boxes today, and start growing your own dockside paradise!