I have a bird bath that I love. It's really pretty and it has sentimental meaning to me. The problem is, in the three years that I've had it, I have not seen a single bird have a bath in it. Not one! It seemed like such a waste.
I decided to make a succulent garden out of it. First, I added a thick layer of stones. The bird bath had no drainage and I was hoping that the stones would be enough to keep the water from the roots of the succulents.
Then I just added some potting soil and mounded it a bit.
Then I started planting.
Here's what I love about this succulent garden. The succulents are all perennial. All of them, except one came from somewhere in my yard.
Those hens and chicks that look 'spider webby' are the only ones I bought. Everything else, I've had for years. And they've survived many harsh winters.
I must have hundreds of the traditional hens and chicks. Five years ago, I had 8, given to me by a neighbor when I lived in Illinois.
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As you can see, I also added some larger rocks. They just give a nice contrast to the plants and add another natural element.
These succulents are awesome! We've even had a couple of bad storms and the bird bath hasn't been washed out in any way. That was my biggest concern. I did plant everything when I knew the weather was going to be nice for the week. Just to let the roots establish and hold everything in place.
I know I will need to bring the birdbath bowl into my garage during the winter. It's just too darn cold here in Wisconsin for things to overwinter in containers. As an fyi, if you are a gardener, I am in zone 5b. And, I've had no problems finding lots of succulents to grow as perennials.
I love looking at my succulent bird bath garden! It brings me joy that I have repurposed the birdbath that is special to me. And, now is purposefully used.
Please forgive any weeds you see.
Have you had a special outdoor item that you used for something other than it's intended use? And, did you just love it?
If you like gardening and especially seeming more about succulents, take a peek at these posts.
Succulents in a Strawberry Pot
Bringing Hens and Chicks indoors
Susan
Doesn't it get drowned when it rains? I would think it needs drainage holes. Please comment.
Beautiful idea.⁰
Susan Moncrieff
If there is a lot of rain, then I do gently tip it to drain some of the water out. I also have a layer of stones under the soil and that seems to keep the roots from being soggy.
All my other containers have drainage holes. But I wasn't able to figure out how to add the drainage without damaging my bird bath. It's worked for a few years now.
Daw
I have done this also n love it
Migdalia Tomalinas
Hens and chicks are very hardy in colder climates but don’t like my Florida zone 9b climate. However, I can grow other alternatives.
Migdalia Tomalinas
I live in Florida zone 9a my plants stay outdoors year round. I’ve grown succulents in birdbaths and fountains. for years. This has been my successful method . Drill holes for drainage, place a screen or landscape cloth over hole. No stones needed. Locate in protected area under eves. I design my miniature landscapes are as Fairy Gardens. Grandchildren love them.
Susan Moncrieff
I can understand why your grandchildren would love fairy gardens. Succulents would be perfect in those gardens.
Erica
Hi. I love your bird bath succulent garden... I live in ny Zone 7a... do you know if I need one would I have to bring it indoors as well?? Running out of space in my garage but love this and need one!!!