Growing cloves in an outdoor plant box is entirely possible with the right conditions. Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) thrive in warm, humid climates, making them ideal for tropical or subtropical regions. If you live in a cooler area, you can still cultivate cloves in a plant box by ensuring proper care.

Key Requirements:

1. Sunlight: Cloves need partial shade to full sun, ideally 6-8 hours of indirect sunlight daily.

2. Soil: Use well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH (5.5-6.5). Adding organic compost improves growth.

3. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Cloves prefer high humidity.

4. Temperature: Maintain temperatures above 50°F (10°C). In colder climates, move the plant box indoors during winter.

5. Spacing: Ensure enough space for the clove tree to grow, as it can reach up to 30 feet in the wild (though container growth limits size).

Tips for Success:

- Prune regularly to manage size and encourage bushier growth.

- Fertilize monthly with a balanced organic fertilizer during the growing season.

- Watch for pests like aphids and treat them naturally with neem oil.

With patience and care, your outdoor plant box can yield fragrant clove buds, adding a unique touch to your homegrown spice collection.