How Self-Watering Planters Work: A Complete Guide to Healthier Plants

Here are some important information most self watering planter manufacturers are not telling you.

After years of using self watering planters here are a few tips I will share to help optimize the overall function of these containers. 

Self watering planters are typically made with a 2-3 inch reservoir. To keep the roots from drowning in water, I always add about 1-2 inches of leca lined with felt before I put in the plant and substrate. Because there will be a constant source of moisture, I use a chunky substrate like coco chips maintain air pockets for a healthy root system. Last but certainly not least, I always top the substrate with about an inch of rubber mulch. This will keep moisture levels consistent throughout the planting area. Without a topper such as stones or rubber mulch, the top inch or two will dry out more quickly than the bottommost layer. This can kill or limit new root development. Taking these extra measures will not only give your plants a better chance at survival, it will give you more freedom by increasing watering intervals.

Stay tuned as we discuss more self watering planting techniques so you can enjoy a lush lifestyle with minimal effort!