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Patio Oasis

Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-829 -- More Projects »
PHOTO

For a quick, easy hanging basket, drill holes in a large terra-cotta saucer, thread with rope or chain, and hang with a plant in the center.
Designer Darren Ransdell shares ideas for creating a peaceful oasis on the patio for less than $50.

Materials:

terra-cotta pots
cork
caulk
paint sealant for roofs
drill
sponge
masonry hole saw
water
rocks
clear plastic hose
water plants of choice

Steps:


  1. Plug the drainage hole with a cork that is cut to size for the hole.

  2. Caulk around the cork once it is in the hole with kitchen or bathtub caulking.

  3. If the pot isn’t glazed, cover the inside of the pot with sealant.

  4. Drill a hole for the water-pump line into the side of the pot. Turn the pot on its side and rest on a sponge.
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Figure A
PHOTO

Figure B
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Figure C
  • Drill a hole from the inside of the pot (figure A) with a masonry hole saw.

  • Add the water and a couple of rocks.

  • Use a clear plastic hose attached to the pump to bring the cycled water to the surface for a beautiful sound. Plant a few of your favorite water plants (figure B).

  • To make a larger version of this fountain in a bigger pot, you might want to use copper tubing instead of the clear plastic tubing. Make sure the diameter of the tubing matches that of the pump (figure C).

    Other Ideas


    • A terra-cotta saucer is perfect to hang a plant, birdseed or water for a birdbath. Simply drill holes in the side of the saucer, thread with rope and hang.

    • Create a water fountain from old terra-cotta pots. The most important part is making sure water doesn’t leak out from the transformed pot.

    • Use interesting items from the garage to make treats for the birds. The back of a wreath or a flattened wire colander can become interesting bases for flat saucers that can hold water or seed.

    • Use a metal tomato trainer with three separate rings as a vertical planter, resting a pot or saucer on each rung and filling them with plants and flowers.
    • PHOTO

    Figure D
  • Make a birdbath with Quik-set concrete, stones and a form. Try using a round plastic lid from the bakery for the form. Line rocks around the edge. Mix the cement to consistency of cake batter. Add a concrete colorant if desired. Work quickly and press concrete into form (figure D). Stick a straw through three sides to create holes from which to hang the rope after the concrete dries. Let dry and flip out of plastic form. Hang.
    • Guests
    Darren Ransdell
    Interior Designer
    Website: www.darrenransdell.com Also in this Episode
    Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-829
    •Born-Again Brushes
    •Patio Oasis
    •Organizing Craft Supplies
    •Smart Solution of the Day
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