SUMMER SOLAR GARDEN

There is something about the sound of water. A splash. A gurgle. A spray. It is the perfect complement to any garden. I need one. So, without further to-do, this is my first attempt of adding flowing water to my summer garden. Consider this the first step, a baby step, a soft introduction. And as with all my projects, it must be simple. It must be beautiful. Simple, yes. Beautiful, yes. Relaxing, yes. One word… Heavenly.

This is the solar water fountain I chose to use. I like it because, like all solar water fountains, it is simple but unique because of the added feature of a back-up battery to store sunlight for prolong use. To purchase…Link here.

What you will need is a container without holes in the bottom (or anywhere) for your fountain. I have this beautiful crock just waiting for a project just like this. It is large and has a finishing glaze on it, so it is perfect for holding water and for outdoor use. It must be brought in during the winter season or it will crack. A galvanized tub or container is also a good choice. Just look around, there are so many suitable choices, just chose one that complements your outdoor space.

The beauty of this fountain is it runs on solar power. No cords. No pumps. Limited hassle. It just needs to sit in a spot that gets sun. The longer the sun shines on this pump, the longer your fountain will work.

Because there are no attached cords, it can be mobile, you can easily move the crock around anywhere your please. How sweet is that?

Crocks can be purchased in numerous places. I bought this one at my local nursery. I like it because it is a version of some old English salt glaze crocks that I purchased from the Williamsburg Pottery Factory in Virginia years ago. And I love them dearly.

First clean your crock (container).

Fill with water.

Remove the nozzles from the package.

Assemble by snapping the three pieces together. There are several different combinations to assemble the nozzles for different affects. You choose, they are all fun.

Place the solar pump into the crock in direct sunlight. Wait about 20 seconds, then attach the nozzle. This is to remove any air inside the pump. Attach nozzle to pump. And ta-da! Instant water action!

About once a month you will need to clean the pump to remove debris, algae and anything else that can land in your fountain. Simply remove nozzle, soak in water and a small amount of Clorox, rinse and let dry before placing back onto the pump. You should also clean the crock/container too. Placing a small amount of Clorox-about 1/4 cup/gallon in your fountain will help limit algae growth. And I heard it keeps mosquitoes away from your fountain.

Take a bow. Now relax and enjoy summer!

Heavenly. My idea of summer home.