How to Make a Container Water Garden

Are you looking to create a peaceful setting on your own porch, deck or yard without spending a lot of time or money? Try a container water garden. It is an easy way to spruce up the appearance of any outdoor area.

Things You'll Need

• Large watertight container
• Sand or gravel
• Optional garden features: fish, snails and fountain kit
• Water
• Aquatic plant fertilizer
• Small pots
• Bricks and extra pots
• Aquatic plants
• Soil or clay

Instructions

Selecting a Container and Location

1. Select a container for your water garden. Purchase a half barrel, large flower pot or square wooden container; or be creative and use a horse watering trough, old bathtub or small kiddie pools.

2. Waterproof the container if it is not already watertight. Use a heavy-gauge trash bag or any sealing agent to create a watertight surface.

3. Choose a visible location receiving 4 to 6 hours of full sunlight per day. A water garden creates an inviting spot and focal point for your enjoyment.

4. Fill the container 2/3 full of water.

Creating the Garden

1. Select a variety of aquatic plants that will create visual interest in your garden. Examples of water plants include: Arrowhead, Dwarf Papyrus, Wild Celery, Fanwort, Water Blue Bells, Horsetail, Japanese Iris, Lotus, Umbrella Plant, Water Hyacinth and Water Lily.

2. Place plants in individual small pots using the appropriate soil or clay. Then top the soil with 1/4-inch to 1-inch of sand or gravel to hold the soil in place.

3. Position the potted plants in the container on top of bricks or overturned pots to create a variety of heights. Follow the water depth instructions for the individual plants.

4. Fill the large container with water almost to the top.

5. Add fish, snails, fountain kit or any other features to make your water garden more interesting.

Maintaining the Garden

1. Keep water level maintained.

2. Trim dead leaves and stems from potted plants.

3. Remove leaves and debris that fall into the water.

4. Fertilize.

5. Dismantle and shelter before a winter freeze.

Tips & Warnings

• Use containers at least 18 inches deep with a diameter of at least 24 inches which will hold the necessary 15 to 25 gallons of water.

• Remember the container water garden is heavy so check the strength of any deck, balcony or roof-top locations before placing the container. Water weighs about 8 pounds per gallon.

• Locate your container away from trees and shrubs to eliminate leaves that will need cleaned out of your water garden.

• A dark color on the inside of your container, such as a dark green, charcoal or black, will create an illusion of depth, discourage algae growth and help hide any algae that does grow.

• Allow the container of water to set 24 to 48 hours before placing plants when the water source contains high concentrations of chlorine.

• Locate your container close to a water source so it's easy to add more water as some evaporates.

• Do not use potting soils with perlite or vermiculite, or the soil will float to the surface.

• Avoid potting mixes with chemicals or fertilizers.

• Add stones and slate for an additional touch. Remember, dark colors discourage algae growth.

• Do not lose heart as your new little ecosystem gets adjusted. Allow 3 to 4 weeks for the plant, animal and algae life to get in balance.