Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - concrete in high water table

We are installing metal posts in concrete for pathway lights. I am told we have to wait until summer because the local water table is right at grass height. The concrete will never dry. I have heard two solutions, but no experience. One is put a 5 gallon can in the ground and pour the concrete in that. The other is essentially the same idea, only build a waterproof box, set it in the ground and pour the concrete in that. Has anybody tried either of these systems successfully? Thanks.

water table is right at grass height If this were true, you would be describing a swamp. Is the ground wet all the time? If you dig a shallow hole, does it fill with water? Is your house built on piers or pilings?

You would need a closed form into which to pour the concrete into the undisturbed soil that is saturated. I have heard of them as being called a treemie.

It may be better to wait until the water table falls, as was suggested.

Perhaps you might learn more from some local concrete contractor as to what is done is this local case.

Hope this helps.

Concrete will cure very well under water. Pour it iinto the hole slowly so that is displaces the water. Don't poke it too much and make the water mix with it.