Make an Automatic Self-Watering Container
Despite what the name implies, an automatic self-watering container doesn't water itself. It's actually a container that has a water reservoir built in, that sometimes contains a fertilizer band to feed the plants for the season. A self-watering container is split into two components, the container that holds the water and another container that holds the soil and plants. Using a self-watering container will ensure that your plants are being given the appropriate amount of water to keep them healthy, often for a few days at a time before the container must be refilled. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Measure the length and width of the plastic container. Measure the interior of the tub and begin at a level that is 4 or 5 inches from the bottom to ensure the correct measurements.
2. Write down the length and width on the lid, then cut it down to the measured dimensions. This will make it possible for the lid to fit inside of the container.
3. Place the 4 PVC pipes inside of the container and stand them up on their ends in each corner. Drill holes in the lid of the container 2 inches apart.
4. Drill a hole in the container to assist with drainage. Position the hole 4 inches from the base of the container.
5. Place the lid inside of the container and on top of the 4 pieces of PVC pipe that are in each corner. Ensure that the lid is fitted perfectly against the sides of the container.
6. Fill the container with potting soil and cover the container with landscaping fabric. This fabric will act as a screen.
7. Cut a small hole in the landscaping fabric, pull back the soil and place a plant in the pocket. Fill in the soil on the sides of the plant and push the soil down over top of the plant to get rid of any air pockets and to keep the plant in place.
8. Replace the landscaping fabric and cover it with mulch. Water the container, creating a reservoir.
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