Self Watering Pots, Planters and Containers for plants herbs and vegetables.

With a number of different types of self watering pots for vegetables and flowering plants available they all work in a number of ways, the most common is by using a wicking action. Water is stored in the lower levels of the pot and a wick, sometimes an actual wick but usually the potting mix or soil itself acts as a wick to draw the water up to the roots of the plants. Watering is carried out by filling the reservoir at the bottom of the'self watering' pot. Most self watering pots have an overflow located just below the reservoir to prevent plants from becoming waterlogged.

Designed to save water and time, these pots are increasingly effectine and allow watering to be carried out with a minimal effort. Water can be added either directly to the 'well' or 'resevoir' or collected as run off from rain. We would still suggest moving potted plants into semi shade if you are going on a long break.

Self watering pots are ideal for vegetables herbs and tomato plants that grow well in a moist soil.

Large self watering pots are suitable for tomato plants while smaller pots are great for salad vegetables and herbs such as basil.

Remember that when filled with potting mix even lightweight self watering pots and planters will become fairly heavy. We suggest placing the pot in place before filling with potting mix and water.

Monitor soil moisture carefully until you know how long is needed between filling with water, so before going away for a few days or weeks you know if watering will be required. Remember that rain will also help fill the reservoir.

By mulching around plants in self watering pots the watering period can be extended.