The splash and sparkle of water is wonderfully soothing in a garden.

Here's how to make a fountain without a lot of effort or expense.

You'll need:
A garden pot (the bigger the better)
Low-voltage submersible pump
Pot sealant
Turbo Builder's Bog
Bricks or pavers to make a plinth
Spirit level

Here's how:
1. Slip the pump's power cord through the pot's drain hole. Assemble the pump (remember that the transformer has to be covered at the power point). Seal the drain hole with a plug of Builder's Bog.


2. Seal the inside of the pot with a sealant suitable for the pot's material. Leave it to cure, following the manufacturer's instructions.


3. Choose a spot for your fountain. Try not to put it under trees as they drop leaves that can discolour the water and clog the pump. Weed and tidy the area - you want that bit of the garden to be worthy of a fountain!

4. Place the pot on a plinth of bricks or pavers so it stands above nearby plants. You can stash the power cable out of sight under the plinth. Check the pot is level by laying a spirit level across its rim.

5. Put in some plants around the pot (choose ones that complement the pot's colour) and spread a gravel mulch to keep the soil moist. Fill the pot with water, turn on the pump and leave it running. Check for leaks half an hour later. If water is splashing out of the pot, reduce the volume of water by adjusting the flow control device (if there is one) or by just crimping the fountain tube.

Source: bhg.com.au