A window box, huh? Well that doesn't give you much space and some herbs grow really tall. Some of the more popular herbs are Basil, thyme, oregano, cilantro, chives and sage. If you have a rather large window box then you might be able to squeeze these in. If you happen to have a patio then I would suggest an extra large container. The soil you would use is just a regular potting soil. Most herbs don't require excellent soil to do well, but they will need good drainage so be sure to add some rocks or broken pottery int he bottom of your containers. Herbs like a lot of sun as well. I don't know where you are, but I can still find herbs at our nursery's and garden stores. Good luck