How to Build a Container Water Garden

You can turn large whisky barrel halfs into a water garden full of greenery.

A container water garden is a simple project that will add movement and interest to any space. A container water garden can be set in the garden or on a patio. Anywhere that can withstand the weight of the full container is a great place to add a container garden. A great container to use is half of an old oak whisky barrel. A whisky barrel holds liquids and is large enough to grow a small variety of plants as well as add a rustic feel to any space. Creating a container garden is a fun and easy DIY project.

Things You'll Need

• Half of an oak whisky barrel
• Scrubbing sponge
• Mild dish soap
• Hammer
• Nails
• Marine-grade sealant
• Brush
• Decorative accents
• Bricks or terracotta pots

Instructions

1. Clean half of an oak whisky barrel thorughly with a scrubbing sponge and mild dish soap. Rise the barrel to remove all residues and let the barrel dry.

2. Check to make sure that the sides of the barrel are tight against the base by tapping around the inside of the barrel with a hammer.

3. Flip the barrel over so the base is facing up. Drive nails through the base of the barrel and into the sides of the barrel being careful not to go through the sides.

4. Flip the barrel so the inside is facing up and coat the inside liberally with a marine-grade sealant. Apply the marine-grade sealant with a brush, coating the sides, bottom, side seams and all nail holes. Let the sealant dry.

5. Apply a second coat of marine-grade sealant to the inside of the barrel with a brush. Let the sealant dry.

6. Set the barrel in its location and fill ¾ full with water.

7. Add decorative accents like a submersible pump with a fountain head and aquatic plants to the water garden. Read all aquatic plant's tags on planting instructions before placing them in the water. Place clean bricks or terracotta pots in the bottom of the barrel and set the submersible pump and plants on top of them if they need to be elevated.

Tips & Warnings

• Use any large container that will hold water to create your garden.

• Cover the surface of the water with 3/4 full with plant life to help prevent algae growth.

• Use a variety of textures and colors of plants to add interest and maintain balance.

• Read and follow the manufactures instructions if using a submersible pump.

• Make sure the submersible pump is always covered with water while it is running.

• Never leave a submersible pump running without supervision.

• Once the barrel is filled with water it is too heavy to be moved without draining so set it in its final location before filling.

References

• "The Complete Guide To Creative Landscapes"; Black & Decker; 2000
• "Gardening Essentials"; Barbara Pleasant; 1999