Sugar Kettles make the perfect addition to your outdoor decor because of its versatile use and convenience. Sugar kettles vary in size and shapes. These sole structures can stand out from the rest with their simple yet attractive features.
They accessorize any outdoor setting and blend perfectly with your garden décor.
Here’s a list of ideas on decorating your outdoor area with sugar kettles:
Sugar Kettle Fountains
Sugar kettle fountain: Pic credit Flickr
A water feature adds interest to any space and sugar kettle fountains are beautiful and easy. One of the most efficient way to install a fountain is by using a sugar kettle and water pump. First, make a hole at the bottom of the kettle using a metal step drill bit. Run the hose through the hole and place the pump inside the kettle to recycle the water in the kettle. Decorate with rocks and flower beds all around. You can also use a metal fountain-pipe and fix it over the edge of the kettle.
A landscape expert can help install the kettle which sometimes require heavy machinery due to the significant weight of the solid cast iron kettle, A landscaper can also assist with setting up the plumbing, underwater lighting, and river rock base.
Sugar Kettle Fire Pit
Sugar Kettle Fire Pit
One of our favorite uses of the ever versatile Sugar Kettle is a fire pit. The heavy cast iron structure works perfectly an instant and beautiful fire pit. With various sizes, you’re sure to find the right fit for your patio or natural area. Using a metal step drill bit, drill three holes spaced out to make a triangle in the bottom of the kettle. The holes allow rainwater to drain as well as the water used to extinguish the fire. Dig a hole about 3 inches deep and about 3 feet wide and fill with gravel. This will allow the water to drain and remove the possibility of dry foliage catching fire from the heat of the kettle when in use.
Set up some chairs, logs or large boulders for seating. Get your blankets and enjoy the cool nights under the warm bonfire made with a stunning sugar kettle.
Sugar Kettle Flower Beds
Sugar kettle flowerbed
Sugar Kettles make an excellent planter and add to your garden décor. They add height and interest while still keeping a natural aesthetic. Fill the sugar kettle up with enough soil to plant your favorite flowers and shrubs. If your area receives a lot of rain, you may want to drill three holes on the bottom of your kettle for good drainage.
Add about 2 inches of clean gravel to the interior of the kettle prior to adding the soil. This mini garden is a great way to add some variety to an otherwise regular flower bed.
Sugar Kettle Mini Pond
Sugar kettle mini pond
A pond in the backyard made with large sugar kettles adds to the serenity and picturesque appeal of your outdoors. Fill the kettle with river rocks about 3 inches high. Add water and pond plants such as water lilies, water hyacinth, duckweed and lotus. Make your pond glow at night by installing underwater lights. A landscape professional can advise you on the best plants and lighting for your space.
DIY Barbecue Grill with Sugar Kettle
Sugar kettle barbecue: Pic credit Wikimedia
A sugar kettle can easily be used as both a fire pit and a grill. Follow the same instructions for setting up a fire pit. Create a grill by purchasing a round cooking grate insert of about 36” diameter. Use either wood or cooking coals to fuel your fire.
Here is an example of a large cooking grate
Visit Southern Exposure Landscape Management to purchase, install and learn more about decorating your outdoors with sugar kettles.
