How to Plant a Water Container Garden

If you wish to create a water garden but don’t have space, then it’s a brilliant idea to start it in a container. Making this container water garden is easy, and all you need is to follow a few instructions!

See the step-by-step instructions to create a water garden like the one below. Remember to keep at least 40 percent of the water surface free for the sunlight to penetrate.

Here’s what you’ll need to get started on your water container garden.

1. Watertight basin

Try a half whiskey barrel, vintage bathtub or sink, concrete trough or a galvanized livestock tank. Choose a basin that’s at least 12 to 15 inches deep with a diameter of 24 to 36 inches.

2. Topsoil

Use a heavy topsoil (not potting soil) that contains clay.

3. Aquatic crates

These plastic crates have lattice sides that allow roots to penetrate into the water and exchange gasses and chemicals. Match the crate size to the size and type of plant.

4. Granular aquatic fertilizer

Maximize plant growth and health by fertilizing these heavy-feeder aquatic plants.

5. Pea gravel

Hold soil in place with pea gravel (and not crushed limestone, which will change alkalinity of the soil and water).

6. Clay pots or bricks

Place beneath aquatic crates for the desired water depth.

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