Repurposing an old water fountain into a planter is a fantastic way to add character and a touch of whimsy to your garden. This creative project solves a common problem for plant lovers: finding unique, eye-catching containers that provide enough space for healthy root growth. Instead of discarding a broken or unused fountain, you can give it new life as a stunning home for flowers, succulents, or trailing vines. The process involves a few key steps, like ensuring proper drainage holes and choosing plants that suit the fountain’s material and depth. It’s a satisfying DIY project that blends upcycled garden decor with practical plant care. For more inspiration on unique planters, you can explore our guide on how to turn an old bike into a planter.
This guide for October 2026 focuses on one specific product that can help with this transformation. While you can tackle the drainage and sealing work yourself, some gardeners prefer using a dedicated conversion kit. These kits often include a basin or liner that fits inside the fountain’s bowl, making the transition from water feature to container garden much simpler. The right setup helps prevent soil from washing out and protects the fountain’s interior. Whether your fountain is made of concrete, resin, or metal, understanding how to adapt it is crucial for your plants’ health. A successful conversion creates a beautiful, low-maintenance gardening focal point that adds personality to any outdoor space.
Pros
- Fun, unique design that sparks conversation
- Lightweight and easy to install (just add a pump)
- Adjustable hands make it versatile for different setups
- Durable polyresin resists UV and heat damage
- Creates a relaxing water sound that enhances any outdoor space
Cons
- Mounting hardware not included; you may need a PVC pipe or DIY bracket for barrel display
- Pump is sold separately (recommended 180-320 GPH)
- Size is life-sized (face about as big as an adult's), which may be larger than expected
The Aquascape Face and Hands Spitter Fountain (model 78315) brings a dose of personality to any pond, water garden, or container water feature. It's a whimsical addition that turns a simple water feature into a conversation starter. The spitter depicts a man's face with moveable hands, and water streams continuously from his mouth, creating a gentle trickle that adds both visual interest and soothing sound. This fountain is ideal for homeowners looking to add a playful touch to their outdoor spaces, and it works equally well in small patio setups or larger ponds.
What sets this spitter apart is its clever construction. Made from high-quality polyresin, it convincingly mimics the look and texture of antique brass but weighs only 3.59 pounds. That makes it easy to position on a barrel, rock, or container rim without heavy lifting. The adjustable hands are a thoughtful feature – they can be repositioned to grip different rim widths, so you can fit it securely on various containers. The patina finish gives it an aged, rustic appearance that blends nicely with natural surroundings.
In real-world use, the fountain performs exactly as advertised. Once connected to a pump (not included, but a 180-320 GPH Aquascape statuary pump is recommended), the water flows steadily from the mouth. The sound is genuinely relaxing, as noted by several buyers who use it near patios, in dog runs, or even in public streams. The compact size (8 inches high, 11 inches wide) means it doesn't overpower a small space, yet it's large enough to be clearly visible. The polyresin material holds up well in sun and heat, so you can leave it outdoors without worrying about fading or cracking.
There are a couple of honest drawbacks to consider. The biggest issue is that the fountain head does not come with any mounting hardware. If you plan to display it in a barrel (as shown in many product photos), you will need to fabricate a bracket or use a PVC pipe to support the head. Several reviews mention this as a minor frustration, but also note that a quick trip to the hardware store solves the problem. Additionally, the pump is sold separately, so factor that into your total cost. Also, note that the face is life-sized – some buyers expected a smaller ornament, but the actual size is about as big as an adult's face, which many actually prefer.
Overall, the Aquascape Face and Hands Spitter is a delightful, well-made fountain accent that delivers on its promise of fun and relaxation. It's durable, lightweight, and easy to integrate into existing water features. Just be prepared to supply your own mounting solution and pump. If you're looking for a unique piece that adds character and the gentle sound of water to your garden, this spitter is a solid choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most important step when learning how to turn an old fountain into a planter?
The most critical step is creating adequate drainage. Stagnant water is a leading cause of root rot. If your fountain bowl is solid, you’ll need to carefully drill several holes in the bottom. Alternatively, you can use a separate plastic liner or pot with holes inside the fountain, filling the gap between them with gravel. This method protects the fountain’s structure while ensuring your plants don’t sit in waterlogged soil.
What type of soil should I use in a fountain planter?
Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix, not garden soil. Garden soil compacts in containers and hinders drainage. For most flowering plants and herbs, a standard all-purpose potting mix works well. For succulents or cacti, choose a specific gritty cactus mix. You can learn more about soil needs in our related planter category. Always fill the planter completely to avoid soil collapse and promote even root growth.
Can I turn any fountain into a planter?
Most fountains can be converted, but material matters. Concrete and stone are durable but heavy and may require sealing to prevent mineral leaching. Lightweight resin or plastic fountains are easier to move and drill. Metal fountains can rust, so using a liner is essential. The key is assessing the fountain’s condition and ensuring you can modify it for drainage without causing it to crack or deteriorate further.
What are the best plants for a fountain planter?
Choose plants based on the fountain’s location (sun or shade) and size. For a tall, tiered fountain, trailing plants like ivy, creeping jenny, or sweet potato vine look beautiful cascading down. The main bowl is great for a thriller, filler, and spiller combination: one tall focal plant, several mid-height flowers, and spillers over the edge. For sunny spots, consider petunias, geraniums, or herbs. For shade, try begonias, ferns, or impatiens. For more on plant selection, see our post on what to plant in an urn planter.
How do I water a fountain planter?
Water thoroughly until it runs out the drainage holes, then allow the top inch of soil to dry before watering again. Fountain planters, especially in full sun, can dry out faster than standard pots. Check soil moisture frequently. Avoid letting water pool in any decorative basins or tiers below the planting area, as this can create a mosquito breeding ground. The goal is consistent moisture for healthy root development without waterlogging.
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