I'll test the pump in the morning when I've stronger sun.
In the meantime I'm soaking some portulaca seed for the top planter.
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6/12 update -
Portulaca seed should not be soaked as it disintegrates. I've planted direct into the pot outside.
I've planted three seeds to the pot and will thin to one. I'll also use something I learned with my Swiss chard: I'll not thin the sprouts but will thin once they've grown a bit and I can better see which one is hearty.
(I'm still debating if I should turn under the current chard and replant. The thing keeps trying to thrive though).
The pump does work, but needs moderate to strong sunlight. I was unable to get it to go in a small sun dapple, but worked when I brought it into unobstructed sunlight. This means it'll probably work from 11am to around 5pm in the place I've put the birdbath. If that is not enough to keep the mosquitoes from breeding there, I'll look for some chemical control.
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Not sure if it is a summer bug or the smoke drifting in from the east coast (big fire over there), but I'm feeling crummy.
I'm not happy with this pic but I'm not feeling well enough to care. I need to change the water as the dust and pollen have turned it brown.
It didn't turn out as well as expected but I'm not displeased. I've seen no birds at it yet, but #1 I've been inside feeling ill and #2 while moving the saucers around to improve flow, several birds flew just feet over me checking things out. They normally don't come that close to me.
Things to do differently should I make another terracotta fountain:
- File deeper channels
- Make repeated tests of water flow at the site that the fountain will sit
- Use primer
- Make sure metallic paint (if used) is rated for outside
- Cut the feeder tube slightly too long
Re #1 -- I'm having issues with the water dribbling over the lip of the saucer. This has it sliding down the side of the pot instead of going to the lower dish. This problem might be avoided with a stronger pump. I'm using a 6v solar pump and even in strong light I need to tilt the pots.
Re #2 -- (related to #1) Doing this to begin with will prevent you from realizing after the fact that the base saucer has a slight peak at the center which keeps the pots from laying flat. It will also point out ahead of time any shims that will be needed in the base and under the pots and saucers. This will allow for a more permanent and pleasant looking fix.
Re #3 & #4 -- Use primer. Just do it. I'm not sure that the other paint has to be rated for outdoors. I see no separation between the layers of acrylic, only between the terracotta and the metallic paint.
Re #5 -- I cut my tube with just enough length to reach the bottom. This prevents me from placing a shim under the pump tower.
