How to make your own birdbath

THE Southlands Sun is obsessed with birds – we enjoy discovering new species in the area, love watching them hop around in the garden, and enjoy the feeling of fulfilment from helping to care for wildlife.

This DIY is an easy, economical solution to a fancy birdbath, allowing you to go as sophisticated or simple as your budget allows.

Essentials and instructions for your birdbath:

• Your selection of pots and saucers are the first items on the list. These need to be varied in size, depending on the look you are going for.

• You can either create a two- to four-tier bath by using large pots that are the same size. The bottom pot goes upside down and the second pot is placed the right way up on top. The two pots must align at their bases, or at their opening, depending on how many tiers you have. Place a large saucer on top of the final pot as the actual bath area for the birds.

• Go for a multi-stacked look by using extra large to medium pots, all stacked upside down inside the previous container. Place a suitable sized saucer on the top of the last pot. Sticking with this stacked look, you could even add another smaller saucer inside the larger one. The many-layered pot rims create lots of room for creative designs.

• Create a fountain theme, beginning with two pots of the same size with their bases together. Place pot number two on top of pot number one. Place a large saucer on top of the second pot with a medium pot upside down, on top of the saucer. Add a smaller saucer on top of the medium pot, and then place a smaller pot on top of that. You can continue this cascading fountain look, using as many descending pot and saucer sizes as you like. See how small you can go for fun!

• Use superglue, a glue gun, or cement to secure the bases or openings of the pots together. This will add structural integrity to your design and prevent the pots from sliding off of one another.

• Use sand or pebbles to fill your pots where possible. Add some weight to your birdbath and half fill the pots with your chosen filler. This will also help protect against strong winds.

• Paint and decorate. Children will enjoy painting pots and having a little creative time outdoors. You may also want to go super pot-posh and use mosaic tiles, glass pebbles, cute stencils for painting, other pot plants, or incorporate rustic elements like driftwood.

ALSO READ: How to properly plant a plant in your garden

For more gardening trends and inspiration, visit www.lifeisagarden.co.za.

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