Make the Cascading Fountain Structure

• 1). Measure and cut the 4 x 4 treated wood post to the desired height of the cascading garden fountain, plus 12 inches.
  
  
• 2). Measure the height of the planter. The planter should be at least 12 inches in diameter. Add 12 inches. Lay the post on a flat work surface with one side facing up. Measure and mark the face-up side of the 4 x 4 a distance equal to this measurement from one end. This mark indicates the bottom rung of the fountain structure.
  
  
• 3). Roll the 4 x 4 once onto another side. Mark a spot on the post that's at least 6 inches higher than the last mark. This is the middle rung of the water fountain. Roll the post over again so that a new side is facing up. Mark a spot that's at least 6 inches higher than the last mark. This is the top rung of the garden fountain.
  
  
• 4). Center and attach L brackets onto each of the three marks on the post. Position the flat top of the L bracket on the marks. Attach the metal brackets with 1-inch decking screws.
  
  
• 5). Cut three 10-inch square shelves from 1/2-inch thick treated plywood. Attach one shelf to the top of each L bracket.
  
  
• 6). Dig a 12-inch hole in the ground where you plan to place the cascading garden fountain.
  
  
• 7). Mix the mortar according to the package instructions. Stand the post below the bottom rung in the hole. Fill in the hole around the post with mortar. Allow the mortar to dry at least 24 hours.
  
  

Assemble the Cascading Fountain

• 1). Seal the drainage hole in the planter with silicone sealant. Allow the sealant to dry. Place the planter on the ground adjacent to the side of the post with no shelves.
  
  
• 2). Position one of the watering cans on the lowest shelf so that the spout falls over the planter. Position the second watering can on the middle shelf so that the spout falls over the top opening in the bottom watering can. Position the remaining watering can on the top shelf so that the spout falls over the top opening in the middle watering can.
  
  
• 3). Run plastic tubing from inside the top opening of the top watering can to the planter. Tape the tubing unobtrusively to the post with duct tape. Attach the end of the plastic tubing to the fountain pump. Place the pump inside the planter.
  
  
• 4). Fill the planter and each of the watering cans with water. Start the pump. Make sure that the water cascades properly from one can to the next, and then into the planter. Adjust the watering cans as needed. Glue the watering cans to the wooden shelves with waterproof construction adhesive after they are in place.