Question
My wife has an old china sink in our garden. She wants it decorated, either painted or some sort of stone attachment to make it look something. She;ll then put plants in it. Is there a special 'paste' that you apply after scrathing the surface? (Sand, cement and perhaps silicone mix?)

Answer
Hi Nigel,

I would recommend that if the sink is antique in nature or is of a fragile nature and you desire to increase its longevity that you contact a antique restoration company for specific instructions on how to best preserve the original finish.

Speaking form personal experience, I when I have cleaned a surface of something that I intend to keep exposed to the elements in my landscape (depending on the surface of course), I have used a professional grade paint protectant such as DiamondPlate or a fluorocarbon acrylic compound that provides significant protection against harsh elements.

Sight unseen, I cannot recommend anything specific at present since i do not know the composition of the sink, its present state of deterioration, or what it might need in the way of restoration prior to any protective coating being applied.

One immediate solution is to find a similar shape made out of a durable plastic or horticultural grade moisture barrier and install it between the sink and the plant material to be planted.

There are also mortar mixes designed for aquatic applications that can work well in moist or weather-exposed situations. I believe that pool supply warehouses care this in dry mix form as well as 5 gallon bucket premix.

I would enjoy seeing a photo of your china sink and how you use it in your landscape if you would have the time to send it. My personal e-mail address is [email protected]. Please put "AllExperts" in the subject line so that it will be directed to my active e-mail folder.

Thanks for your contact. If is can be of any further help or encouragement in your pursuit of the perfect garden landscape, please do not hesitate in contacting me again.

Warmest regards,

David