Are you tired of constantly watering your plants? Do you often forget to water them, leading to dried out and wilted plants? If so, a self watering planter might be the solution for you. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making your own self watering planter, so you can enjoy healthy and thriving plants with minimal effort.
What is a Self Watering Planter?
A self watering planter is a container designed to provide plants with a consistent supply of water without the need for frequent watering. It incorporates a reservoir that holds water and a wicking system that delivers water to the plant’s roots as needed. This system ensures that the plants receive the right amount of water without the risk of over or under watering.
Materials Needed
To make a self watering planter, you will need the following materials:
- A container with a lid or cover
- A smaller container or pot that fits inside the larger container
- A wicking material such as cotton rope or strips of an old t-shirt
- A water reservoir such as a plastic bottle or a small bucket
- A drill or a hot nail to create holes
- Potting soil
- Plants of your choice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your own self watering planter:
Step 1: Prepare the Containers
Start by drilling or creating small holes in the bottom of the smaller container. These holes will allow water to flow through and reach the roots of the plants.
Next, drill or create a single hole in the lid or cover of the larger container. This hole will serve as the access point for adding water to the reservoir.
Step 2: Create the Wicking System
Take the wicking material (cotton rope or strips of an old t-shirt) and thread it through the hole in the lid or cover of the larger container. Make sure the wicking material is long enough to reach the bottom of the smaller container.
Place the smaller container inside the larger container, ensuring that the wicking material is inside and touches the bottom of the smaller container. The wicking material will act as a bridge, allowing the water to travel from the reservoir to the plant’s roots.
Step 3: Prepare the Reservoir
If you are using a plastic bottle as the water reservoir, cut off the bottom of the bottle. If you are using a small bucket, drill a hole near the bottom to act as a drainage hole.
Fill the reservoir with water, ensuring that the wicking material is submerged in the water. The water will be drawn up through the wicking material to the plant’s roots, providing a constant supply of moisture.
Step 4: Plant Your Plants
Fill the smaller container with potting soil and plant your chosen plants. Make sure the roots are in direct contact with the potting soil, as this is where the water will be delivered.
Step 5: Monitor and Refill
Check the water level in the reservoir regularly and refill as needed. The frequency of refilling will depend on the size of the reservoir and the water requirements of your plants. Over time, you will become familiar with the watering needs of your specific plants and how often to refill the reservoir.
Benefits of Self Watering Planters
Self watering planters offer several benefits:
- Consistent watering: The self watering system ensures that your plants receive a consistent supply of water, preventing under or over watering.
- Time-saving: With a self watering planter, you no longer need to water your plants daily, saving you time and effort.
- Water efficiency: Self watering planters reduce water waste by delivering water directly to the plant’s roots, minimizing evaporation and runoff.
- Healthy plants: By providing the right amount of water, self watering planters promote healthier and more vibrant plants.
Conclusion
By following these simple steps, you can create your own self watering planter and enjoy the benefits of hassle-free plant care. With a self watering planter, you can ensure that your plants receive the right amount of water without the need for constant monitoring and watering. So go ahead and give it a try – your plants will thank you!