Self-watering pots use a sub-irrigation system to hydrate plants, dispensing water directly to the roots, eliminating any guesswork. These pots have a water reservoir at the bottom so the plant can drink at its own pace
. As the water reservoir empties, caregivers know it is time to add more water
. Self-watering pots commonly have four elements
:
- Growing bed to hold the potting soil and plants
- Potting soil with a mixture of nutrients to help the plant grow
- Water reservoir to store water to hydrate the soil and roots
- Wicking system to deliver water from the reservoir to the plant roots
The water reservoir hydrates the soil through capillary action, also known as a wicking system
. As the plant roots absorb water, the soil wicks up more water to maintain a consistent moisture level
. The sub-irrigation method allows the soil to maintain a consistent moisture level at the base of the pot, and for plants that need a lot of water, the roots can grow through the insert and directly into the reservoir for continuous access to water and nutrients
