Make an Easy DIY Solar Water Fountain Planter

Looking to add a tranquil water feature to your garden or patio on a DIY budget? You’re in the right place! Today, I’m going to show you how to create a beautiful DIY solar water fountain planter. It’s a simple, budget-friendly project that combines the beauty of flowers with the soothing sounds of water. Let’s get started!

I had a bare spot in my front bed where nothing grew because our pets always walk across it. I came across a unique planter idea on Instagram from my friends Jodie & Kim and I wanted to give it a try. To make this project my own, I used unique planters and a different way to assemble this feature, and I LOVE how it turned out. I can’t wait for you to try this DIY solar water fountain planter project!

Watch my video to learn how to make this solar fountain planter

Materials You’ll Need:

• One large planter: This will serve as the base of your fountain.
• One small planter: Ensure this planter has no drainage holes as it will hold the water.
• Sand or gravel: For stabilizing the base planter.
• Potting soil: To plant around the small planter; make sure it has the right nutrients for the plants you choose.
• Annual plants: I recommend trailing lobelia and petunias for a vibrant and cascading effect.
• Water: To fill the small planter.
• Solar floating fountain: Easily found here on Amazon USA or here on Amazon Canada, this little gadget is the star of the show.

Now, let’s get started with the step-by-step process to make your very own solar water fountain planter.

Step 1: Choosing Your Planters

First things first, head to your local store or check online for planters. For this project, I opted for faux barrel planter pots from Walmart. They’re budget-friendly and have a rustic charm that blends beautifully with any garden setting. Make sure your small planter has no drainage holes, as it needs to hold water for the fountain. You could also use a bowl, buckets, or another vessel if you want to create your unique spin on this project.

Step 2: Preparing the Base Planter

Once you have your planters, it’s time to prepare the large pot. Fill about one-third of it with sand or gravel. This will provide a stable base for the small planter and ensure that everything stays in place. Plus, it helps with drainage and prevents the soil from becoming too waterlogged.

Find a level spot in your garden or on your patio to place the large planter. It’s important that the surface is relatively flat so that the fountain will sit evenly and function properly. You’ll also want to choose a sunny location like my South-facing flower bed so that your solar pump receives direct sun.

Step 3: Placing the Small Planter

With the larger pot ready, place the smaller pot inside, positioning it right in the center. This creates a neat focal point and makes it easy to arrange your plants around it.

Step 4: Adding Soil and Plants

Now, fill the space around the small planter with potting soil. You want to make sure the small planter is snug and secure. Once the soil is in place, it’s time to add some greenery! Plant your chosen annuals around the small planter. I love using trailing lobelia and petunias. The lobelia’s cascading blue flowers and the petunias’ vibrant blooms create a beautiful contrast and add a splash of color.

When planting, be mindful to leave some space for the plants to grow. Gently pat down the soil around the plants to ensure they are firmly in place.

Step 5: Filling the Small Planter with Water

With your plants in place, fill the small flower pot about three-quarters full with water. This is where the magic happens. The water will provide a home for your solar fountain pump and create a delightful sound that’s both relaxing and pleasing to the ear.

Step 6: Assembling the Solar Fountain

Now for the fun part! Take your solar floating fountain and assemble it according to the instructions. This solar powered water pump comes with different attachments that allow you to customize the water spray. Whether you prefer a gentle streaming water flow or a more dramatic spray, there’s a different nozzle to make it happen.

Once assembled, place the solar water pump into the small planter filled with water. Make sure it’s positioned to receive enough sunlight to keep the fountain running. The beauty of these water pumps is that they’re eco-friendly, don’t have an electrical cord, and they’re low maintenance. They even work fairly well in the shade, although direct sunlight will ensure optimal performance.

Step 7: Enjoy Your New Water Fountain Planter

And there you have it! Your DIY solar water fountain planter is complete. Step back and admire your work. The combination of colorful flowers and the soothing sound of water creates a peaceful oasis that’s perfect for any outdoor space. These also make great bird baths and kitty drink stations… ask me how I know, haha!

Tips and Tricks

• Maintenance: Keep an eye on the water level in the small planter. On hot days, the water can evaporate quickly, so make sure to top it up as needed to keep the fountain running smoothly. I keep a watering can nearby.
• Plant Care: Regularly water the plants around the small planter, and deadhead any spent flowers to encourage new growth and keep the display looking fresh.
• Customization: Feel free to get creative with your planter choices and plant selections. You could use herbs like mint and basil for a fragrant twist, or opt for succulents for a low-maintenance alternative. You can also get creative with additions to the planters like decorative stones or pebbles.

Creating a DIY solar water fountain planter is a fun and rewarding project that adds both beauty and tranquility to your outdoor space. It’s a great way to get creative and make your very own DIY water feature that you’ll enjoy for years to come. Let me know in the comments below if you’ll try this project. Happy DIYing!

Want more easy front flower bed ideas?

Check out my post here where I share my favourite low-maintenance perennials and shrubs that I love in my front flower beds.