Make a self-watering planter or wicking-bucket to keep your plants healthy and well-watered. Perfect for a patio garden or any yard.
I learned how to make a self-watering container in a class taught by a San Diego Master Gardener, and I am so excited to share what I learned with you because it’s a genius idea. It’s an easy project using supplies you probably already have around your house and yard. And it will keep your plants healthy and thriving.
I am an inconsistent gardener. I love gardening, but I will forget about my plants for days or weeks at a time. I can’t tell you how many plants I’ve killed because I forgot to water them regularly. It’s why we installed an irrigation timer, a drip system, and a sprinkler system in our backyard. But those are expensive, and they don’t work very well for pots and small planters. A self-watering planter is inexpensive and keeps plants watered for days or even weeks without over-watering them.
I’ve made three self-watering buckets so far; you’ll see them all at the end of the video. And all three have plants that are thriving.
Supplies to Build a Self-Watering Planter
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- A water-tight bucket or container, preferably plastic
- A water-tight bucket or container
- Shade cloth or wire screen
- Zip ties
- Sand
- Lava rock
- Landscaping Fabric
- Potting soil
- Plants
Tools Needed
Our San Diego Master Gardeners are wonderful. I’ve learned so many things from them, beyond how to make this self-watering planter. They offer free gardening advice, classes, and more. And it’s specific to gardens in my area. If you live in the San Diego area, check out their website: mastergardenersd.org. If you live somewhere else, find your local Master Gardeners through your county or local university. Master Gardeners are the best help for your garden.
When you make your self-watering container, I’d love to see a picture. You can post it on my Facebook page or add it to a comment below. Happy Gardening!