Easy Steps to Building a Potted Fountain

These instructions are for a fountain using two flower pots and pebbles. The principles are the same for building large or more elaborate units.

1. Choose the pots you want to use. You will need two different sizes. The larger will be the holding pot and must NOT have a drainage hole. If it does, seal the hole with silicone adhesive. If needed, cover the hole with a pottery shard and silicone around the edges of the shard.

The smaller pot MUST have at least one 1/2" drainage hole. Drill it if necessary. You may want additional water to escape from the top of your fountain. If so, drill small holes around the rim of the smaller pot.

2. Consider how high your completed project will be and what type of water flow you prefer. Purchase an appropriate sized pump and tubing. As you assemble your fountain, try to hide the pump, pump cord and tubing as much as possible. Depending on what materials you use, you may choose black or clear tubing.

3. Place your pump in the bottom container. Attach the tubing and keep the electrical cord over the rim of the pot. If you want, you can use pot shards to hide the pump. Partly fill the pot with pebbles. Thread the tubing through the drainage hole in the smaller pot from the bottom and set the smaller pot in the pebbles. Position firmly and completely fill the bottom pot with more pebbles, shells or marbles.

4. Hold the tubing upright in the smaller pot and fill the pot with pebbles. Cut off the hose off an inch or so below the level of the rocks.

5. Fill the large pot with water about halfway up and fill the small vessel to the top. Plug in the pump and enjoy!

Article By: by Debbie Rodgers, Paradise Porch
http://www.paradiseporch.com

© 2004 Paradise Porch
Paradise Porch helps you transform simple outdoor spaces -- such as porches, decks, balconies & gazebos -- into enriching areas you'll love to spend time in. Check out our basic Quick Draw service and how-to guides.