How to Make a 5-Gallon Bucket Water Reservoir

A 5-gallon bucket is incredibly versatile and has several handy uses in the garden. One clever use for a 5-gallon bucket can save water and conserve nutrients through a water reservoir system. You can transform it into a self-watering garden that saves space, uses only compost and requires little care and watering. The water drains through the holes inside the bucket and collects, while the roots grow through the holes and soak up the water. Any nutrient-rich overflow can be added back into the bucket.


Cut around the outer edge of the lid with a saber or band saw so it fits down into the bucket.


Drill 15 holes in the lid with a 5/16-inch drill bit.


Cut black perforated drain tile into three 2 1/2-inch rings with a hacksaw.


Place the rings in the bottom of the bucket.


Drill a hole 2 inches from the bottom of the bucket with a 3/4-inch drill bit.


Cut a 1/2-inch diameter clear plastic tube so it's 6 inches long. Wrap one half of the tube with electrical tape, but don't cover the hole in the tube. Slide the tube halfway through the drilled hole. The tape widens the tube to hold it in place in the hole.


Place the lid on top of the drain tile rings.


Cut an x shape in the shoulder of the milk jug with a utility knife. Set the jug directly next to the bucket. Slide the end of the tube a few inches into the x cut on the milk jug.


Place the bucket on a 8-inch concrete block or other sturdy, flat surface to raise it up.


Fill the bucket with 4 gallons of aged compost and plant the seeds or plants.


Pour in 2 or 3 gallons of water. You can reuse the water that collects in the jug to water the plants. If it doesn't rain, the plants will still require daily watering on hot, sunny days.