Ditch Traditional Bird Baths For A Lowe's Find That Doubles As Adorable Garden Decor

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Imagine the ideal bird bath for your garden. For many people, the first one that comes to mind is a heavy stone design with a deep basin. This kind of bird bath is very traditional and looks totally in line with a pretty English cottage garden or a beautiful rose garden. However, there's no rule that says a bird bath must be plain stone (or look like it). For example, take the Style Selections Yellow/Green Resin Complete Bird Bath from Lowe's, which is not only a bird bath but can also double as décor for your garden.

It features a charming design of a relaxing gnome (aka the fun garden trend that originated in Germany centuries ago) and stylized sunflowers. This hand-painted bird bath is available for $42.98, is made out of durable resin, and comes with a functional 2.25-inch deep basin and a weather-resistant finish.

In the words of one customer, "Love this whimsical little bird bath. Bright and colorful. Has a nice heft to it, hasn't fallen over yet." Several other reviewers praise the whimsical nature of the design, too, and its colorful display. However, some buyers claim the colors don't stay as vibrant when used in the sun. On that note, placing the bird bath in a protected, shaded area might help to minimize this type of wear.

Colorful, decorative bird baths are a lot of fun for adding whimsy to a garden, but they also have a tendency to show signs of wear and tear. It is disappointing for a colorful bird bath to lose some of its appeal with fading colors or chipping paint. Even with a durable bird bath like this one, the best way to make sure your garden accessory stays beautiful for a long time is to place it in partial shade.

Resin products, like this bird bath, do not tolerate direct sunlight for long periods of time without fading. As well, keeping it sheltered is one way to keep your bird bath cool in the summer heat to attract more birds.

A shaded spot will also help reduce the rate at which the bird bath water evaporates, as well as the rate of algal growth, which blooms in sunlight. Kenn and Kimberly Kaufman, the official bird experts at Birds & Blooms magazine, recently explained to Birds & Blooms readers how to prevent algae growth in bird baths, saying, "It's best to keep them out of full sun, but avoid putting them directly under trees or shrubs, where plant parts may fall into the water." 

A bird bath too close to a tree could also leave birds vulnerable to predators; placing it nearby instead (about 10 feet away) can address all-day sun, falling leaves, and bird safety. Filtered or partial shade would be ideal. If you don't have such a shaded area, consider creating your own. A mini umbrella, like the Plant Umbrella by HHBEAUTY ($9.99), can give your bird bath shade anytime the sun gets too intense. (See more unique bird bath designs that will add instant delight to any yard.)