Looking to add a touch of greenery to your pet's daily routine? This DIY succulent water bowl planter combines functionality with style, creating an elegant feeding station that both you and your dog will love. By incorporating drought-tolerant succulents around your pet's water bowl, you'll create a unique piece that elevates your home décor while serving a practical purpose.
What You'll Need
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2 stackable stainless steel dog bowls
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High-quality succulent potting mix
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A low, wide plant pot (make sure it's wider than your dog bowls)
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Pet-safe succulents
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Decorative stones (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Set Up Your Base
Begin by positioning one of the stainless steel bowls in your planter. Add succulent potting mix underneath it until the rim of the bowl is level with the top of the planter. This creates the foundation for your arrangement and ensures proper bowl placement.
2. Add Your Greenery
Carefully arrange your chosen succulents around the edge of the planter then place the bowl in the centre. Consider varying heights and textures to create visual interest. Fill in any gaps between plants with additional potting mix, ensuring each succulent is firmly planted, and the bowl is secure.
3. Apply the Finishing Touch
If desired, spread decorative stones around your succulents. This not only creates a polished look but also helps keep curious pups from digging in the soil. The stones add an extra layer of protection for your arrangement.
4. Complete the Setup
The bowl you planted serves as a stable base for your pet's water bowl. Simply place the second stainless steel bowl inside the fixed one. This stacked design keeps the succulents in place and allows for easy removal of the bowl for cleaning or to refill the water.
Important Safety Tips
Before starting this project, keep these crucial points in mind:
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Research your succulent choices carefully. Only use varieties that are non-toxic to dogs. See below for some recommendations for non-toxic succulents, and some to avoid. If in doubt, the ASPCA has a comprehensive list of toxic and non-toxic plants here.
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If you have a dog who likes to explore with their mouth, skip the decorative stones. While they look beautiful, they could pose a choking hazard for curious pups.
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Regular maintenance is key. Remove the water bowl daily for cleaning and check that your succulents remain firmly planted.
Final Thoughts
This DIY project offers a perfect blend of form and function. Not only does it provide your dog with a designated water station, but it also creates an eye-catching display that enhances your home's aesthetic. With proper plant selection and maintenance, your succulent water bowl planter will bring joy to both you and your four-legged friend for years to come.
Remember to monitor your dog's interaction with the planter initially to ensure they're using it safely. With time, this beautiful creation will become a natural part of your home's landscape and your pet's daily routine.
