what can i do with an old water fountain

1. Repurpose your fountain as a flowerbed. This is, by far, the most popular way to repurpose a fountain. ...
2. Reuse a patio fountain as an herb garden. If you want to save water by no longer using your fountain for its original purpose but you would still like ...
3. Transform your fountain into a centerpiece. Smaller fountains can be cleaned up and reused as centerpieces for special occasions or everyday use in your outdoor dining room.
4. Turn your fountain into garden art. Some fountains are so beautiful or unique that you can simply turn off the water and they will automatically become an incredible piece ...
5. Repurpose your fountain into a cold beverage bin for parties. ...
Turn a single-basin fountain into a garden hose holder. Single-basin fountains, particularly those that look like large flowerpots, provide a perfect place to store your garden hose.
Make your fountain into a bird bath or bird feeder. ...
Turn your water feature into a fire feature. If your fountain is made from a fire-safe material, you may be able to transform it into a fire pit.

How can I transform an old fountain into a garden?

Here are some other ideas for transforming an old, unused fountain into a focal part of your garden, filled with container plants. When creating a garden with multiple levels, try choosing one or two types of the same plants that you will plant in each level. This helps the different levels to ‘flow’ together visually.

Can you make a water fountain from a pot?

If you love the sound of water and want to get an inexpensive water feature for your home or garden, try one of these DIY Container Water Fountain Ideas! 1. DIY 2-Tier Fountain Build an ecstatic fountain from two large garden pots and a small pump.

How do you clean an outdoor fountain without damaging it?

Drain the water out of the fountain. For smaller fountains, you can just dump the water out. For larger fountains, a shop vac may be easier to remove the water from the fountain. Scrub the fountain. If the fountain is small, it may be easiest to bring it into a sink to clean. If it's larger, you'll need to clean it outside.

Can I sell or give away my old fountain?

If you have a fountain that you no longer want to use as a functioning water feature in order to lower your water bill or do your part to conserve water, you may be able to sell it or give it away.

What can I do with an old fountain?

How to Repurpose Your Fountain and Save WaterRepurpose your fountain as a flowerbed. ... Reuse a patio fountain as an herb garden. ... Transform your fountain into a centerpiece. ... Turn your fountain into garden art. ... Repurpose your fountain into a cold beverage bin for parties.More items...•

How do you decorate an old water fountain?

Here is how to decorate around a water fountain.Planting flowers adds a splash of color. ... Use mosaics for a classic look. ... Paint bricks bright colors for extra fun. ... Install metal lawn art to show personality. ... Be sure to add seating near your fountain for great ambiance. ... Add rocks and pebbles for a textured look.More items...•

How do I turn an old fountain into a planter?

How to Convert a Fountain Into a Garden PlanterGather the Supplies. Supplies for fountain garden planter. ... Line the Fountain With Landscape Fabric. Place strips of landscape fabric in the basins. ... Fill the Basins with Garden Soil. ... Plan the Garden Layout. ... Plant the Garden. ... Optional: Add LED Lights.

What can I plant in an old water fountain?

Fill your fountain with Lantana, Verbena, Salvia and other plants that are attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies. So, do you have an unused fountain? Don't throw it away. Transform it into a beautiful, focal point in your garden—fill it with plants.

How do you beautify a fountain?

Some decorating tips to help you create the perfect garden fountain environment can be found here.Add Some Colorful Flowers. ... Use Greenery. ... Spice Up Your Fountain with Herbs. ... Create a "Healthy" Look with Vegetables. ... Add a Pathway. ... Personalize Your Fountain Area. ... Seating Nearby. ... Make Your Fountain Shine with Lighting.

How do you decorate an indoor water fountain?

1:103:35How to Decorate a Room With Water Fountains & Plants : Interior StyleYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSide table or anything with a horizontal surface near an electrical outlet. This one is made withMoreSide table or anything with a horizontal surface near an electrical outlet. This one is made with resin stones.

How do you grow plants in a fountain?

Steps for planting your fountain:Remove, and/or cover, any pump equipment, electrical lines, or lights. ... Cover any holes or cracks in your fountain with tape or a piece of plastic. ... Step 2.5 (Optional) – Line the inner surface of your fountain with plastic sheeting. ... Add your soil. ... Start with your statement plant.More items...•

How do you make a birdbath into a planter?

0:020:58How to Turn a Bird Bath Into a Planter - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipMost of the soil around the roots and then place the plant in the center of the birdbath on top ofMoreMost of the soil around the roots and then place the plant in the center of the birdbath on top of the soil. For the surrounding plants gently pull apart the chicks.

How do you drill a hole in a concrete fountain?

1:483:42Drilling holes in concrete, simple,,,w/the right tools! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipJust as a side note that's kind of a an expensive side note if you can't get your drill bit out wentMoreJust as a side note that's kind of a an expensive side note if you can't get your drill bit out went ahead and cut some rebar. Just put the rebar right into the existing sidewalk.

What can I plant in a shallow bird bath?

SucculentsSucculents are a great option, as most have shallow roots and the birdbath space is likely not too deep. Alternate plant colors and use some plants that cascade. You may use miniature figurines of tiny houses and people to create a small landscape in the planter.

How do you make a water feature out of a planter?

2:364:05DIY fountain or water feature for your patio using flower pots - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThere we go that just wraps around the cord. And then the stopper just like a cork on a wine on aMoreThere we go that just wraps around the cord. And then the stopper just like a cork on a wine on a wine bottle just keeps the the liquid.

What kind of paint do you use on a concrete fountain?

Concrete water fountains can be painted with an exterior latex or oil-based paint. You can also use a concrete stain. If you go with a stain, you need to remove the old paint and sealer with a concrete and masonry paint stripper.

How do you make a water feature look natural?

How do you make a water feature look natural?Surround the edges with plenty of plants, and add aquatic plants to the water itself, too.Opt for a stream effect using a mix of pebbles and stones. ... Allow moss to grow over areas, and add some logs for a woodland vibe.More items...•

What do you put around a water feature?

9 Best Plants to Put Around Water Features1) Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis)2) Ragwort plant (Ligularia spp.)3) Water forget-me-not (Myosotis scorpioides)4) Canna lily (Canna spp.)5) Garden nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)6) Elephant ears (Alocasia, Colocasia, and Xanthosoma spp.)More items...•

How do you plant succulents in a fountain?

Steps for planting your fountain:Remove, and/or cover, any pump equipment, electrical lines, or lights. ... Cover any holes or cracks in your fountain with tape or a piece of plastic. ... Step 2.5 (Optional) – Line the inner surface of your fountain with plastic sheeting. ... Add your soil. ... Start with your statement plant.More items...•

Who said my new succulent garden is in an old fountain?

Brenda Propst ‎ tells us, “My new succulent garden is in an old fountain! We love it in the middle of the daisies. It isn’t summer here without the daisies blooming.”

Who said "That is exactly what I’m getting ready to do with a non-functional fountain in my front?

Tracy Wilson-Scarbrough says, “That is exactly what I’m getting ready to do with a non-functional fountain in my front yard!”

Where is Sandy's fountain?

Sandy and her husband had this fountain installed in a flagstone patio just outside her front door. She could imagine it bubbly nicely as her guests arrived, however,…they never could get the water regulated correctly for the amount of flow and sound! So, she transformed it into a splendid two layer flower bed, she says.

What to do with a fountain that you no longer use?

Do you have fountain or other water feature that you no longer use? Transform it into a planter, filled with some of your favorite container plants.

How to fill a fountain with flowers?

Another idea to fill your fountain, is by using contrasting colors. Imagine the top level filled with purple, trailing flowers. Then fill the middle bowl with bright orange flowers (orange and purple are great examples of contrasting colors). Finish off with adding purple flowering plants in the bottom level. ...

What is the best material to use for a water fountain?

Resin and fiberglass cloth. Water proof sealant. Mortar, quick drying concrete or cement. Outdoor water fountains are a beautiful and artistic addition to your yard. You want them to maintain their beauty, and be in good repair. Therefore, maintenance and repair are important factors to consider for your water fountain.

Why is my water fountain worthless?

Without a working water pump, your outdoor water fountains will be worthless because no water can be pushed through the system. If your water pump stops working or runs slowly, the filter probably needs to be cleaned.

Why is my water fountain leaking?

A leak in your water fountain is also a bad because it wastes water and requires that it be replaced. Check the fountain over and see if you can locate the leak. If you can't see it, let the water sit for about seven days. Any cracks will show up as a white area on the base.

Can you use waterproof sealant on outdoor fountains?

Some outdoor water fountains are coated with a special waterproof sealant. This can wear off due to normal weather conditions and just by getting older. It’s easy to reapply new sealant by buying it at a hardware store and spraying it on. Then just let it dry and it will be as good as new.

Can you repair a broken water fountain?

If your outdoor water fountains are made of a resin material, you can still repair a crack or broken part fairly easily. All you have to do is use a mixture of resin and fiberglass cloth like you can find in a boat supply store.

How to make a fountain with water?

For an almost instant homemade fountain, insert an inexpensive electric pump into a large ceramic or concrete planter, then fill it with water and plug it in . Place your creation in a bed of low, flowering ground cover to highlight your landscaping, or install it on the deck or patio and relax to the soothing sound of flowing water.

How does a vintage watering can work?

At first glance, this clever water feature looks like pure magic...but look more closely! Though the vintage watering can appears to be causing water to pour endlessly into an old washtub, the can is actually fed with water via clear tubing. To re-create this look, snake the tubing up and out of the tub and back into the watering can. Once the water reaches the spout level, it will spill down to the lower level, only to be recirculated in a refreshing loop.

What is the base of a fountain made of?

Here, the base is made from a length of sewer pipe —but any barrel or large planter would serve the purpose.

Why do Japanese gardens have bamboo fountains?

This traditional bamboo fountain is commonly used in Japanese gardens to chase deer away. Water streams into the receptacle, which tips when it's full, spilling the contents and making a loud knocking sound when it hits against the rock base. The length of bamboo then tilts back into position to be filled again. Even if your backyard isn't a local haunt for deer , you might enjoy the rhythmic sound this fountain brings to your yard.

What to do with a salvaged wine barrel?

This one was sterilized and deodorized with care before it was transformed with the help of a store-bought container pump. For extra interest, consider adding LED fountain lights and aquatic plants.

How to clean hard water buildup on fountain?

If your fountain has hard water buildup, use a special product to help remove it, such as CLR. You can also use a mixture of half white vinegar, half water. Let the fountain soak in the solution, and then scrub it again with a gentle brush or sponge.

What to use on copper fountain?

If your fountain is copper, make sure you only use a very soft rag on it.

Why do fountains need to be descaled?

Drinking fountains need to be descaled from time to time because of a build up of hard water. Spray the fountain with a descaling solution where the it has hard water buildup, and then scrub it with a cloth soaked in the same solution until the scaling comes off. Wipe it down with clean water when you're done.

How to clean a mouthpiece?

Clean the mouthpiece. Squirt disinfectant on the mouthpiece, as well as the guard that sits over it. Use a brush to clean all around the mouthpiece and guard, including where the water comes out. Once done, use water to rinse the area thoroughly.

How high should water flow out of a fountain?

See if the water is flowing freely. The water should flow out of the mouthpiece readily, and it should lift up at least 3 inches above the fountain. The height of the stream is important because it keeps people from putting their mouths on the metal part of the fountain.

What to do if your filter looks dirty?

If you encounter any filters that look dirty, clean or replace them.

Can you remove rocks from a fountain?

You can also remove any items in the fountain, such as large rocks. Always check your manual before cleaning, as different fountains may require different cleaning methods. Before you take out the pump, you can connect a hose to it and use it to pump the water out of the fountain into a bucket or outside.

1. DIY 2-Tier Fountain

Build an ecstatic fountain from two large garden pots and a small pump. Watch the tutorial here!

2. DIY Container Fountain Tutorial

Create a container fountain for your backyard or an urban balcony quickly. To learn more, watch this tutorial video here.

3. Beautiful Container Water Fountain

A soothing addition to your garden, this perfect water fountain is easy to make. Visit LOWE’S to see the DIY.

4. Inexpensive Tiered Water Fountain

Get a few nice-looking various-size pots to complete this tiered fountain project available at the Addicted 2 DIY.

5. DIY Bubble Fountain

Adding a small water feature in your garden is not very expensive, and you can make it yourself. Try this DIY tutorial here.

6. DIY Terracotta Pot Fountain

Check out five DIY terracotta pots fountain ideas with tutorials in this post here.

7. Easy Terracotta Pots Fountain

Get a few medium to large size terracotta planters to create a water fountain. Visit Instructables to learn the steps.

What is a small fountain?

This small fountain is perfect to go on your tabletop and features a variety of differently sized planters to create the display. At the top is another planter with trailing vines, adding a bold green to the orange of the terra cotta. Stones are scattered throughout the display for the water to splash against, making the ambient sounds we love.

What is the best base for a water fountain?

An enormous urn is a great base for a water fountain since it adds a lot of height from the start. From there, smaller urns are stacked inside the rock-filled base. Instead of water trickling down the stones, a large center fountain rains water down all the way around the urn, which is constantly recycled.

How is a strawberry fountain made?

The terra cotta planter is positioned above a small reservoir on top of two brick supports. Water bubbles out of the shallow bowl at the top and flows down the sides of the strawberry planter, rolling off of the many curves. The water then rolls over the brick supports and into the reservoir below.

What is a single tiered fountain?

This is a single-tiered fountain that is perfect in tall, wide planters, since you won’t have any other tiers to give it more height. 6. Tiered Fountain Over Pool.

What are some good things to put on a patio?

Water features, including ponds, waterfalls, and especially fountains, are a great way to add a luxurious atmosphere to your patio or garden. They not only provide a great visual accent piece to any garden, they also provide you with ambient noise that helps block out some of the sound of neighbors or cars driving by.

Is the bottom of a fountain larger than the top?

The bottom is much larger than the top, which is set nearly sideways so that the water can seep out and back into the bottom. This is a very quiet fountain, perfect for owners living in a very quiet area. 5. Fountain with Matching Planters. Source: Lowes.

Can you take a fountain indoors?

The single fountain stream splashes over the piled rocks, providing your relaxation space with plenty of soothing ambient sounds. And it’s small enough that you can take it indoors during the winter so that it doesn’t get damaged.

Types of Fountains and Paints

Whatever type of fountain you have, whether it is fiberglass, resin, concrete, cast stone, ceramic, or metal, some processes will be the same. Be sure to clean it with the proper materials before you even begin.

Painting With Moisture & Other Tips

In all painting situations it is important to consider your surroundings. Obviously while painting a fountain you may need your paint to withstand sitting in constant water, or at least the occasional splash.