Bird Bath Planter

1) First you will want to select your basin for the planter. You can find the big metal tubs like I used at most hardware stores, or you could use a wooden or concrete planter. You can choose a size that fits your space, just note that your smaller basin that will go inside it should be at least 15-20'' in diameter, so be sure your large basin will still have room for plants

2) 15-20'' diameter bowl or planter (no holes) for the bird bath fountain

3) Platform for your bowl to sit on (this can be an old coffee can, empty quart paint can, a cheap short planter, a cement landscaping block, etc.)

4) Solar bird bath fountain ($15-$20 on Amazon)

5) Garden soil

6) Your choice of plants and flowers

Tips for selecting a planter basin:

• Round or square works best so that you can center your smaller basin for the fountain
• If your large planter basin does not already have drain holes, be sure to add them using a drill bit (I used a 3/4'' bit to add holes to mine"
• Make sure whatever material your basin is made out of can withstand the elements

Adding a platform for your bird bath will give it a sturdy base to rest on, and will also allow you to use less soil to fill your basin for plants.

Place the platform in the center of your planter basin, and add dirt around it until you have a level surface.

After you have made sure your water basin will sit nice and level, add in the rest of the plants.

I put ornamental grasses in the back for some height, then draping plants in the front. I did go back and add some colorful plants too!

Now for your water feature!

Add your solar fountain to the water basin. Most can either suction to the bottom, or float.

Finally, fill your water basin using a hose and find a cozy seat to begin watching birds, bees and butterflies enjoy your new garden feature!