How to Make a Water Feature Out of a Planter

Water features add a sense of calm and tranquility to any outdoor space. If you're looking for a way to enhance your garden with a water feature but don't want to commit to a full-scale pond, a planter fountain might be just the solution you need. Here are the steps to create your own water feature out of a planter.

Materials You Will Need

A large planter

A water pump

A fountainhead

A rubber stopper

A drill

A saw

A waterproof sealant

A decorative stone or gravel

Step 1: Prep Your Planter

Choose a sizeable planter, ideally at least two to three feet in diameter so it can hold enough water. Decide where you want to place the planter, as this will determine how much of the water feature you need to design. Drill a hole in the center of the bottom of the planter large enough to fit your water pump’s cord. Also, drill several smaller holes around the sides of the planter, just below the rim - this will enable you to create a cascading water effect later on in the process.

Step 2: Install the Pump

Attach the water pump’s cord to the fountainhead, which will allow water to flow through it evenly. Drop the pump into the bottom of the planter and thread the cord through the hole drilled earlier. Make sure the pump is at the center of the planter; this will ensure that the water circulates efficiently throughout the planter fountain.

Step 3: Add a Rubber Stopper

Attach a rubber stopper to the water pump’s cord from the outside of the planter. This will create a waterproof seal between the cord and the planter's bottom, ensuring that no water leaks out.

Step 4: Create the Cascading Effect

Attach a vertical PVC pipe to the fountainhead, and then drill holes into the PVC pipe to produce the cascading water effect. Cut the pipe to the required length, leaving enough to ensure the fountainhead sits above the rim of the planter. Insert the pipe into the fountainhead, making sure it is firmly secured in place. Use waterproof sealant around the base of the PVC pipe and fountainhead to prevent leaks.

Step 5: Add Decorative Stones or Gravel

Cover the bottom of the planter with decorative stones or gravel. This not only enhances the overall look of your water feature, but it also helps to stabilize the pump and fountainhead in place.

Step 6: Fill Your Fountain

Fill the planter with water, making sure the pump is fully submerged. Plug in the pump, and you're ready to enjoy your new water feature!

Conclusion

Creating a water feature out of a planter is an easy and affordable way to bring a sense of serenity and beauty to your garden. These simple steps can be completed in just a few hours and don't require any significant technical or mechanical expertise. So why not give it a try?