Like most other outdoor items, a birdbath does not last forever. Plastic varieties eventually become brittle and break, and clay and concrete types eventually develop cracks and leaks. Cracked clay and concrete bowls are worth saving and repurposing in creative and useful new ways. Some can even been repaired, and without looking as if they were ever damaged. Try these creative new ways to use a broken birdbath, and repurpose and reuse something that would otherwise end up in the trash.
Fill the Top with Soil and Flowers, Succulents or Vines
If the top of your birdbath is cracked, use it as a unique pedestal planter. Fill it with fertile soil, and add plants of your choice. Vines are particularly lovely when planted in a raised container because they have plenty of space to trail down toward the ground. Place colorful flowers in the center with vines all around. They will look amazing, and what was once broken and useless to the birds can beautify your yard or garden in a spectacular new way.
Repair the Top with Grout and Mosaic Tiles or Stones
A broken clay or cement birdbath can be repaired, decorated and used to provide water for wild birds. Buy broken ceramic tiles, or break them into random pieces using a rubber mallet. Clean the cement or clay surface, and coat it with grout. Work on a small section at a time. Carefully arrange the broken tiles, glass pebbles, real pebbles and anything else that can withstand water and weather. The grout will seal the cracks, and the birdbath that was once broken will once again hold water. It will also look better than ever.
Use it as a Birdfeeder
If you would rather not repair your broken birdbath or use it as a planter, repurpose it for the birds. Fill the cracked or chipped bowl with birdseed, and buy a new one to hold water. The crack will be a huge plus. Rainwater will run out instead of drenching and ultimately ruining the seed. Use it to hold black oilers, safflower seeds and other favorites. Avoid choosing seed mixes that contain millet. The birds will pick out the prime seeds, and the rest will end up on the ground. Consider mounting a hook near the new feeder. It can be used to hold hanging hummingbird feeders and suet feeders, and it will ultimately become one of the most popular feeding stations around.
