How Do Self Watering Plant Pots Work? Are Self Watering Planters Worth It?

Self watering containers are a great way to avoid under watering plants as they always have a reservoir in case you forget. By watering through the root system instead of top watering, plants are less susceptible to fungus, and disease but also the roots determine how much water they need instead of people fomenting healthier growing and healthier plants

When you purchase a self-watering plant pot, it will usually include a growing bed, water reservoir, potting soil, and a wicking system. Self-watering pots use this wicking system to distribute the perfect amount of water to keep your plants moist. The roots of the plants in the self-watering pot will absorb water, and once the roots have had enough, any additional water will be wicked up by the soil to maintain a consistent moisture level. This bottom-up watering system just requires you to keep the reservoir filled with water throughout the growing season.

Pros of Self Watering Plant Pots

Self-watering pots and similar gardening devices boast remarkable convenience as a primary advantage. In the realm of gardening priorities, convenience reigns supreme, especially amid our bustling routines and extensive gardening tasks. These innovative pots afford you more leisure time by efficiently managing watering duties, allowing you to unwind in your outdoor haven.

Additionally, the environmental benefits of self-watering pots warrant attention. Designed to conserve water by dispensing it precisely when and in the right amounts needed, these devices significantly reduce reliance on sprinklers or hoses. For those prone to over-watering, these pots emerge as invaluable allies in maintaining optimal garden hydration.

A key advantage lies in the diverse array of styles available for self-watering pots. As their popularity surges, manufacturers continuously unveil fresh designs, enabling gardeners to reflect their unique style. From sleek, minimalist options in black, white, or concrete to larger planter styles and even innovative wall features or window boxes, there's a perfect pot to complement your chosen plants and desired placement.

Moreover, the peace of mind afforded during vacations is a standout benefit. Delighted vacationers praise these pots for safeguarding their flora during extended absences. With a pre-filled reservoir, these pots diligently nourish your flowers and vegetables, ensuring they not only survive but thrive. Should uncertainty linger, enlisting a friend or neighbor to periodically check the self-watering pot is a reassuring option.

Cons of Self Watering Plant Pots

Not suitable for all plants

Cacti and succulents need well-drained soil and cannot be grown in self-watering flower pots. A constant moisture supply to the soil puts succulents at risk of dying from overwatering. Desert succulents need to dry out between watering sessions since they are used to the arid environment. The opposite is true for self-watering pots.

They Don't Do Well In Wet Or Humid Environments

One of the cons to consider with self-watering pots is that they cannot detect the weather or environmental factors. Self-watering pots release water to the plants no matter how humid it is or how much rain is in the forecast. If you live in a very humid area or have a particularly rainy season, you'll need to keep an eye on your self-watering pot to ensure your plants don't become water-logged and rotten. That's one of the cons of self-watering pots: sometimes, humans are the pros!

There's A Higher Price Point

Opting for a standard pot or planter tends to be more budget-friendly compared to self-watering pots. The latter involves a more elaborate setup initially, necessitating additional components for efficient operation. Prices vary based on the size and style you select. Consider this perspective: while self-watering pots may have a higher initial cost, they can ultimately lead to savings on your water bill and spare you from frequent trips to the store to replace dehydrated or excessively watered plants.

Conclusion

In summary, for individuals new to cultivating plants, exploring self-watering pots could be a beneficial option. This approach suits those eager to nurture plants at home yet face challenges remembering or managing regular watering schedules.

The noteworthy aspect of self-watering pots lies in their capacity to conserve water while effectively sustaining plant life. We trust this blog has provided you with valuable insights into the realm of self-watering pots and their potential to support your gardening endeavors. We hope it has been an informative read for you!