While self-watering pots are successful, they must be used correctly. The aim of this article is to illustrate how self-watering pots work. We would also go into the top ten self-watering pots and how to pick the correct one for you.
If you are curious about what plants are ideal for self-watering containers, you can find the information here as well.
So, without further ado, let us get this party underway.
What Are Self-Watering Pots and How Do They Work?
Self-watering pots are practical, save water, and increase plant quality. These pots and planters utilize wicking motion to supply water from a built-in reservoir, enabling you to water your plants easily by filling up the reservoir rather than keeping track of the soil moisture level and watering according to each plant’s specific needs.
What is the mechanism behind self-watering pots? Self-watering pots operate by capillary motion or wicking and consist of a rising bed, potting soil, water tank, and wicking device that brings the soil into contact with the water. The soil wicks away more water as the plant roots consume it, ensuring a constant amount of moisture in the soil.
These self-watering pots, also known as “sub-irrigation tanks,” have grown in popularity due to their effectiveness and ease of maintenance. They are easy to make from cheap, readily accessible products, or you can pick from a variety of trendy commercial choices.
While the design choices for these self-watering pots are infinite, the four simple elements listed above still come together to form an elegant approach to houseplant treatment that is suitable for today’s busy lifestyles.
You can see why the self-watering pot movement has burst onto the scene in recent years if you learn how these planters operate. But keep reading to learn more about how self-watering pots function. You would be motivated to carry out these creative planters.
A Self-Watering Cooker’s Essential Elements
There are four fundamental elements of every self-watering pot:
- • Growing bed: The growing bed is where you put the potting soil and the seeds, as the name implies.
- • Potting soil: Potting soil assists in the wicking of water and the transfer of oxygen to plant roots.
- • Water tank: The self-watering pot’s water reservoir is an important component. It is the one directly underneath the rising bed. A water level sensor is usually present in a water tank to aid in the control of water levels.
Separate containers carry the rising bed and the water reservoir.
• Wicking mechanism/capillary action: Water travels from the water reservoir to the soil and plant roots through the wicking system, also known as capillary motion.
Wicks made of absorbent materials, such as cords, are commonly used to aid in the wicking process.
Self-Watering Dishes at Their Best
Self-watering pots come in handy when it comes to keeping your indoor and outdoor plants safe, particularly if you have a busy schedule.
You may make your own self-watering dishes, but you will need to gather the necessary materials. The advantage of purchasing self-watering pots rather than creating them yourself is that you will get high-quality planters that will provide you with peace of mind and though you are travelling.
What self-watering containers, on the other hand, are suitable for both indoor and outdoor plants?
What Are The Drawbacks Of Self-Watering Containers?
Self-watering pots are convenient for busy people, they are environmentally safe, and they can improve plant health – but they have a few drawbacks:
- • Not all plants are appropriate for self-watering pots: Succulents, orchids, and other plants that need their potting soil to dry out between waterings are not ideal for self-watering containers. Root rot can grow in these plants as a result of the constant moisture.
- • Self-watering pots do not function well outside in wet or snowy weather: High humidity and rain can cause outdoor self-watering containers to get waterlogged. While an overflow outlet is beneficial, it does not prohibit excess water from flooding the soil and allowing it to become saturated rather than uniformly damp.
How to Pick Self-Watering Planters
Choosing the right self-watering pot has never been straightforward, considering the abundance of containers of all sizes and varieties on the market.
Choosing a self-watering pot for your indoor and outdoor plants as a novice may be difficult. Apart from the pot’s form, colour, and design, there are a number of other factors to remember if you want to get the right container for your needs.
When it comes to picking the right self-watering pot, there are a few items to keep in mind.
• Ease of usage
And if you are not about to water your plants, a self-watering pot would manage to supply them with the required amount of water. As a consequence, you must pick a functional jar.
A complex self-watering pot can do little for your plant but starve it or even ruin it.
That is why, when it comes to planting, rising, and even watering the plants, you must select a pot that is user-friendly.
Fortunately, the majority of the self-watering pots we will cover in this article are quick to set up and use.
• The pot’s size
Before you buy your self-watering container, keep in mind that the roots will require room to expand, and the plant will grow tall. This ensures that if you purchase a tiny pot, your plant will either not develop properly inside, or you will have a smaller selection of plants to choose from.
A simple rule of thumb is to choose a pot that is neither too large nor too tiny.
• Material When it comes to choosing the right material for your self-watering pot, consistency and efficiency are essential. This is particularly relevant if the container would be used for outdoor painting.
The pot should be robust enough to endure all sorts of weather. Fortunately, the pots used in this article are constructed of solid plastic, ceramics, and other durable products, though poisonous containers can be avoided.
• The amount of water needed by your plants.
Another factor to remember when purchasing self-watering pots is the amount of water your plants need. It is important to remember that various plants need different amounts of water at different times.
As a result, before you purchase your pans, make sure the tank can contain enough water for the duration of your trip or if you are occupied.
Plants that need a lot of water will benefit from a wide water reserve.
• Enough oxygen
Your plants need sun, water, and humidity, but their roots still need sufficient oxygen to keep them safe and happy.
The bulk of indoor and outdoor plants do not need damp soil. As a result, you would need to purchase a pot that separates the water tank from the surface.
Let us have a peek at the best self-watering pots with that in mind.
Reviews of the Strongest Self-Watering Pots
Fiber Soil + Aquaphoric (7″)
Fiber blocks are included with this self-watering pot. You may also pick from a range of shades, and the pot is constructed of sturdy plastic. There are plenty of shades to pick from to match the décor of your home or garden.
The advantage of this pot is that you can use it straight away after buying it as long as your plants are able.
Furthermore, the container has a water level display, allowing you to see where your plants need watering. You would not have to think about overwatering or underwatering this way. You just have to water this bottle once a week.
Another advantage of this self-watering pot is that the fiber soil combines water and oxygen, allowing the plants to thrive.
However, since the soil is low in nutrients, you would need to replace it with fertilizer. The jar is also streamlined in appearance, allowing you to use it within or outside your home.
Pros
- • It comes with fiber fertilizer that encourages oxygen to naturally flow in your plants.
- • It comes in a variety of colours – at least 12 colours.
- • It is simple to set up and use.
- • The water level sensor can save you from overwatering or underwatering the plants.
Cons
- • The plant’s growth can be stunted if you do not fertilize it.
Overall, Aquaphoric (7″) + Fiber Soil will be the perfect option if you are searching for a visually appealing and functional self-watering pot.
Fiber Soil + Aquaphoric (5″)
When it comes to high-quality watering planters, Aquaphoric is a household brand, and Aquaphoric (5″) + Fiber Soil is no different. It is worth noting that this is a scaled-down variant of the first product we looked at earlier.
This self-watering pot, like the first on our series, has a streamlined design that allows you to put it anywhere within your home or on your balcony.
The pot is also constructed of high-quality, durable materials, ensuring that you get a long-lasting product. You can also expand as many plats as you like with it.
Aquaphoric is a company that creates items with nearly equivalent characteristics. This product, like the first, has a water level indicator that lets you know when your plants need to be watered. Your plants would not fail as a result of overwatering or underwatering in this manner.
Furthermore, the bottle contains breathable fiber soil, which enables oxygen to easily circulate. This aids in the conservation of the roots and plants. However, you may need to apply fertilizer to the soil since it lacks the nutrients that plants require to survive.
- • The water level sensor protects the plants from being submerged or overwatered.
- • The fiber soil is breathable, allowing air to flow freely inside the container; • The pot is available in a variety of colours.
Drawbacks
- • You may need to apply manure to the fiber soil because it is low in nutrients.
Overall, the Aquaphoric self-watering pot is durable and can be used to produce as many plants as you need.
(6.5″) Santino Arte
Unlike the other two brands we have discussed, the Santino has a distinct flavour. This pot is available in a range of sizes. Furthermore, this container may be used to cultivate a wide range of plants.
You still would not have to think about the plants being under or overwatered with this jar. You should water your plants once a week or once a month, depending on their needs.
To assemble this pot, start by filling it halfway with gravel and soil, then placing your plant and adding more soil until the plant is healthy.
Since this pot has a distinct smell, you may need to apply gravel to it, as compared to the first two, which come with fiber dirt. The gravel encourages air to easily flow inside the pipe.
The Santino’s self-watering bottle is available in five separate styles and a variety of colours to complement every interior décor.
Furthermore, this pot is constructed of dependable and long-lasting plastic, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
Advantages
- • It is made to last.
- • The pot is quick to run.
- • The gravel provides enough oxygen circulation.
- • You can choose from a range of colours and sizes.
Drawbacks
- • Does not have a water level indicator.
Overall, Santino’s self-watering pot guarantees that the plants remain well-watered even though you are away from home for an extended period of time.
Self-Watering Planter Santino
Another company that has made a name for itself in this category is Santino, which makes amazing self-watering dishes.
The Santino self-watering pot is constructed of strong plastic. It can be used to cultivate a variety of plants for a long time.
This self-watering pot is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use due to its longevity.
This pot is available in four different styles and five different shades. You will not go wrong with a size and colour that matches and looks good in your home.
The benefit of this pot is that it has an inner pot with a strong drainage mechanism, ensuring that your plant’s roots do not suffocate. The other half of the jar (attached to the bottom of the tiny pot) has a cartridge for regulating moisture and drainage.
The water tank is located in the external jar, which also has a water level indicator. The plug at the bottom of the external pot is used to drain the tank.
This self-watering pot has the advantage of being able to water your plants for up to four weeks, making it an ideal solution for people who lead busy lives.
Advantages
- • The self-watering pot is made to last a long time.
- • The breathable pot is made possible by the drainage cartridge.
- • Various kinds of potting oil may be used.
- • It is perfect for those who lead hectic lives.
Drawbacks
- The two containers (inner and outer) cannot be readily distinguished.
Overall, this will be the right choice for you if you are searching for a budget-friendly yet powerful pot that is also designed to last. The self-watering pot was built with ease of use in mind.
It is easy to use, and it gives you peace of mind by watering your plants when you are gone.
Cubico Garden Planter by Lechuza
If you want to develop taller plants and are not sure which self-watering pot to get, this model is the one to go for.
Unlike the other versions we have discussed, this pot is only available in three sizes but has amazing shapes.
It comes in three different shades, but its sleek and trendy style works great in every space of your home. Furthermore, your plants will be watered, and your house will be well-decorated.
You would not have to think about underwatering or overwatering the plants because the pot has a water level indicator.
Also, since this Planter is breathable, the plant’s roots would not suffocate. Furthermore, the jar is constructed of high-quality and robust material. You should depend on a planter that can be used both indoors and out.
The drainage cartridge controls precipitation and drainage. You have been out for a month and discovered that your plants have so much water due to rain? Do not worry; just remove the drainage cartridge from the water reservoir’s bottom to clear the excess water.
Advantages
- • Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
- • Drainage ensures that the pot is well-drained.
- • It has the most up-to-date architecture.
- • Plants provide plenty of oxygen.
Drawbacks
- • There are only three paint options available.
Overall, if you are looking for an easy but effective self-watering pot with the most up-to-date style, this model is the best option.
8′′ Bloem Ariana
The water tank for Bloem Ariana is situated at the bottom of the jar. Drainage holes are bored into the durable plate. Water and soil are isolated in this self-watering pot.
Until you start using this self-watering container, you will need to drill any drainage holes in the areas labelled X, depending on your plant’s water requirements. It is set up that way to take account of plants that need more water as well as those that need less.
You could begin by drilling fewer holes and then increasing the number of holes before your plants’ water requirements are met.
The benefit of this self-watering pot is that you can simply put the plastic plate within the pot and then plant as usual with some soil.
Excess water from watering the plants flows into the tank. The Bloem Ariana is available in six different sizes and five different shades.
Advantages
- • It is a cost-effective and effective self-watering pot.
- • If you use this pot, you would not have to think about overwatering or root rot.
- • It is easy to set up and use.
- • To allow for efficient drainage, drill additional holes in the bottom of the container.
Drawbacks
- • Since this pot does not have a water level monitor. You would have to be cautious not to sink or overwater your plants.
Overall, if you are searching for a low-cost, high-performance self-watering pot, this is the perfect option. It has a cute style that will prevent your plants from sinking in water.
5′′ T4U Plastic Pot
Choose one of the six cute pots from this model if you want to offer your smaller plants the best possible treatment so they can develop safe and happy. You would just need to water once a week with this self-watering pot.
There are two containers in this self-watering pot. The smaller container is where you placed the seeds, and the larger container is where the water tank is held.
Excess water will still drain to the tank, and the container will self-water the plants until the soil is empty.
Furthermore, you would not have to think about overwatering or underwatering with this pot. At any given moment, your plants will receive the requisite amount of water.
The advantage of this self-watering pot is that it is built of durable, high-quality materials while being lightweight. You should easily migrate your plants.
The pot is available in four different forms and three different shades.
Advantages
- • It is a self-watering pot that is easy to transport.
- • It has the most up-to-date architecture.
- • It is made to last.
- • It is lightweight and portable.
Drawbacks
- • There is no water level measurement in the tank.
Overall, if you are looking to raise tiny or baby plants, this self-watering container will be the right option. It is tiny and thin, and it is very efficient.
3-Pack Mkono
Mkono 3-pack is a self-watering pot that is both easy and cute. When you purchase this jar, you will receive three of them. The three pots would look amazing in your house. Furthermore, the pots are constructed of long-lasting materials, rendering them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
The pots seem to be luxurious at first sight. They go for every kind of furniture because of their white paint. The Mkono 3-pack takes a special approach to self-watering in that it has two layers that ensure your plants get the correct amount of water.
The outer pot holds the water tank. You fill the inner smaller pot with soil and put your plants in it. A cotton rope guarantees that your plants receive the moisture and nutrients they need.
This self-watering pot is available in three sizes: 4.2 inches, 5.4 inches, and 7.8 inches. Simply choose the appropriate size for your plants.
This self-watering pot has the benefit of being able to use any form of fertilizer and potting soil. Just once a week, the plants are watered.
Advantages
- • Made of strong and long-lasting fiber.
- • It has the most up-to-date architecture.
- • Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
- • It is easy to use.
Drawbacks
- • The white pot is bigger than the inner pot.
Overall, if you are a minimalist looking for a reliable self-watering pot, this is the perfect option for you. You just have to water your plants once a week in this pot.
18″ Self-Watering + Aerating Planter
This is a plain, traditional-looking self-watering planter that just takes a few minutes to put together.
It is a dependable container that holds your plants hydrated without drowning their roots. The bottom of the container that contains the soil has holes in it, meaning that your plant receives adequate water at all times.
This self-watering pot has the advantage of being simple to disassemble. You should use the clip-on extension instead of watering the dirt.
The Self-Watering + Self Aerating Planter is offered in three different sizes and five different colours. You should be confident that you can find a pot that matches your home’s decor.
Advantages
- • It is built with non-toxic products.
- • It is easy to set up and use.
- • It has a conventional, simplistic look.
Drawbacks
- • If you want to grow bigger plants, you might want to miss this Planter.
Overall, this will be the perfect choice for you if you are constantly on the move and need an easy but powerful self-watering pot. The container is non-toxic, durable, and will keep the plants watered and stable at all times.
Round Plastic
Our last (but of course, not least because there are lots of self-watering pots there, but we selected the best of the best) self-watering container is the Plastic Round, which has a special design and is ideal for smaller plants.
This self-watering pot is stylish. It features a breathtaking circular design you can see from a distance except though crowded with flowers.
This pot even has a water level tracker so you can realize when it’s time to pump more water to the reservoir.
With this self-watering Planter, you water your plants once a week. Ok, the pot is tiny, so you can suggest buying it if you wish to grow smaller plants.
He pot also features the new style and will complement every décor within your home.
The pot is also well-suited for indoor and outdoor uses.
Pros
- • Best for indoor and outdoor uses.
- • Accurate water level predictor.
- • Prevents drowning of stems.
- • It features a sleek style.
Cons
- • You will want to consider another pot if you wish to cultivate larger plants.
Overall, the self-water pot is affordable and fashionable. With this pot, your plant’s roots won’t sink but can develop healthier and happier.
But there you have it; the perfect self-watering pots for both indoor and outdoor uses.
DIY Highly WATERING PLANTERS
I like the soil foot style, so that’s what we’ll discuss here. To build your own self-watering Planter, you need:
- • container(s), such as a plastic storage tank, or collection of 5-gallon buckets
- • small basket, jar, or strainer for the soil “foot.”
- • watering hose
- • wood blocks or other aids
- • burlap, mesh or garden cloth to screen the watering hose
- • screws and duck tape
- • a drill, a utility weapon, and probably a saw
I find a used storage container at the thrift shop for $3. After the holidays is still a wonderful opportunity to shop for discounts on containers. You require a container with a cover or two similar containers to nest one within the other. Note, our target is a built-in reservoir beneath the soil that the plant is in, with a soil foot down into the reservoir.
For the soil foot, we used an old nursery pot with drainage holes, trimmed so that about an inch stuck out above the bottom of the plant chamber. If you pick, make sure it has holes because the water gets in.
Our watering pipe is a 2″ diameter PVC pipe. If you choose not to use PVC, add the tube of choice. The tubing width has to be large enough for you to pour water in.
The video below shows assembly. If a video doesn’t launch, make sure you are not using an adblocker.
CONTAINER ASSEMBLY
- 1. Cut the cover, so it fits snugly within the jar at the width of the bricks. If you use 2×4 timber on its hand, this is 3.5 inches. Next, cut the opening for the soil foot and a spot in one corner for the watering pipe.
- 2. Attach woodblocks to the underside of the lid with screws.
- 3. Cut the watering pipe to match. Remember, it has to stick out above the surface of dirt and mulch. Cover the ends of the tubing with burlap to keep away pests and soil. (Slip off cover for watering, if needed.) Secure watering pipe into the corner with duck tape to lock it in position until you are ready to fill the Planter.
- 4. Set the cover into position at the bottom of the self-watering tub. Fit the pot (or basket) for the soil foot in place. Close any holes along edges with duck tape or wadded burlap. We want to hold the soil above the lid and in the soil foot, not overflowing into the water tank.
- 5. Drill or punch two drainage holes in the surface of the container, slightly above the level of the reservoir. This allows for irrigation in case of overwatering or heavy rainfall.
- 6. Fill the foot with moist dirt, packing it in firmly. Cover the remainder of the tub with healthy potting soil. Notice that most garden soil is too thick for container plantings, so soil mixes perform best.
- 7. Plant veggies, flowers or spices, or a combination, and water well from the tip. Top dress with organic fertilizer or manure, if needed. Cover land with mulch to preserve moisture.
- 8. Give plants a week or two to get settled in their new home by watering from above. When they are tucked in, water utilizing the watering hose.
Final Thought
Self-watering containers are handy, and they allow the right choices to hold the plants moist even though you are not home.
They are also cheap and come in various colours. But before you pick yours, make sure you equip yourself with the correct knowledge available.