How to Make a Water Feature Out of a Wooden Barrel

Create a water feature out of a half or whole wooden barrel.

Wooden barrels, from wine barrels to whiskey barrels, make durable water features. The simple shape and rustic appeal of barrels adds a focal point to the landscape and works well in small spaces such as patios, decks and balconies. Barrels offer such a versatile container for water features that the main challenge comes from choosing the type of water feature to create. Create a homemade fountain or water garden out of a wooden barrel to add life to any area of your outdoor environment. Place the water feature in view of a window for added enjoyment.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Round pond liner
• Level
• Outdoor fountain pump (optional)
• Water plants (optional)
• Water-compatible decorations

Instructions

1. Measure the diameter of the full or half barrel's opening. Extend the tape measure from one inside edge of the top of the barrel to the other at the widest part. This is the size liner you need.

2. Balance a level on the top edge of the barrel and adjust the position of the barrel to make it level.

3. Insert the pond liner in the barrel opening.

4. Install the fountain pump, if desired. Turn the fountain pump on, if the pump housing has a power control. Keep the pump unplugged until you complete the assembly of the water feature. Set the pump in the middle of the pond liner.

5. Arrange stones or a statue to hide the fountain pump. Check that the vents in the fountain pump remain unobstructed--they must remain clear for water circulation.

6. Pour water into the pond liner to within an inch of the top.

7. Arrange water plants in the wooden barrel water feature. Group the plants around the outer edge of the barrel if there's a fountain--most water plants prefer not to be jostled by moving water.

Tips & Warnings

• Place the water feature in an uncrowded area on a surface that will support the weight of the barrel with water and all the other elements you want to add. For example, for a full-size wine barrel, select a cement patio or other strong surface to safely support the water feature.

• Barrels are too small to make comfortable fish ponds. Create a fountain or water garden instead.

• Locate water features in a gated area.

• Never leave children unattended with access to a water feature. Even a small, shallow water garden carries a risk of drowning.

References

• Texas A&M University: Water Gardens: Plant Life
• Utah State University Extension: Water Features for the Garden