I have a 2 tiered concrete bird bath I'd like to make into planter

Question

Due to the mosquito problem in Florida, can I turn this into a succulent planter without drilling holes through concrete for drainage?

Janet Pizaro · Answer

You could plant the succulents in very small pots with drainage holes all around the bird bath and cover up with additional succulent soil as not to see the pots.

Vicki Cain · Answer

Yes you can. Just make sure to not over water.

MN Mom · Answer

All plants do need drainage but not all plants need to be in containers that have drainage holes. Many succulent planters and terrariums use shards of pottery or small stones as the primary layer in the planter. The soil then sits on top and finally the plants are inserted.  Also you don't need deep planters and lots of soil. It's  possible to grow succulents in pots without drainage holes because they require less water than other plants and you only need to water them occasionally. Their specialized stems and leaves store water for long periods. Just do some research on succulent planters and of course, ask a professional at your garden shop for their opinion on which plants and options are best for your situation.

Irene Gramlich · Answer

Make it into a fairie garden. They have a lot of ideas on Pintrest.

Valerie · Answer

Here is a link to a post on Hometalk by Barb Rosen on converted an old concrete bird bath into a succulent garden. She is extremely knowledgeable about plants, so it should help. I also find that the comments help a great deal. http://www.hometalk.com/diy/grow/succulents/making-a-succulent-garden-in-an-old-birdbath-426930

Lee Govan · Answer

You could use it as planter as long as you have good drainage. Try a layer of charcoal first, this will filter any excess water and keep it clean, same as you do for bonsai's.
 Mosquitoes don't like a lot of plants, like marigolds, basil and lavender to name a few. I see that you have been given an option on succulents that will work. 
Basil is also a very good fly repellent, I just place them around the outdoor eating area, and they are gone. 
A little citronella oil in your water feature will also work. I hope that this was of some help to you.

Angela Lozito Rogers · Answer

I actually received several great suggestions. As always, thanks to you all.

I have a 2 tiered concrete bird bath I'd like to make into planter

Making a succulent garden in an old birdbath

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I have a 2 tiered concrete bird bath I'd like to make into planter

Making a succulent garden in an old birdbath

Suggested Project Book