How to install a water feature

Install a water feature, as this makes an excellent focal point, adding movement and excitement to a garden. - by Better Homes & Gardens

In small courtyards, this will also help distract from the limited size of the area.

Gather your supplies

• Waterproof glazed crucible planter (ours was 360 x 490mm)

• Submersible pond pump n 30mm poly riser

• Selleys Knead It Aqua

You'll also need

Rubber gloves; waterproof extension cord (optional); mulch (optional) paver or brick (optional)

Notes: The size and depth of the pot you choose will dictate the size of the pond pump and poly riser you’ll need. If in doubt, buy your pump from a pond specialist supplier; that way you can also get advice.

Here's how...

Step 1

Have an electrician cut plug off pump power cord. Feed cord through pot drainage hole, then reattach plug. Ensure enough cord is left inside pot to allow pump to be raised to surface of water for maintenance. Alternatively, you can drape cord over lip of pot and cover with foliage.

Step 2

Plug drainage hole using Knead It Aqua. To do this, break off enough filler to fill hole. Knead until warm then plug hole, ensuring filler is pressed firmly onto pot and around cord so it’s watertight. Allow to harden for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3

Screw poly riser into top of pump. Put pump in centre of pot, then fill pot with water. If pump moves around, weigh it down with a paver or brick, ensuring water intake isn’t obstructed. Plug into a power point and enjoy your soothing new feature. Keep in mind, you’ll need to top up fountain with water from time to time.

Tip:

If you don’t have an outdoor power point close enough to your pot, use an extension cord and disguise it beneath a layer of mulch. Or have an electrician install one specifically to power up your fountain.