Easy-to-Make Automatic Irrigation Plant Containers
In this guide, we'll show you how to make a simple and eco-friendly self-watering planter using a plastic soda bottle. This project is ideal for those who are short on space or are going to be out of town for a few days.
Materials Needed
- An empty plastic soda bottle (a 1.25-liter bottle works well)
- Scissors or craft knife
- Drill or a hot nail
- Soil and seeds or small plants
- String or cotton wick (optional)
- Water
- A white cotton T-shirt scrap, scissors, toothpick, potting soil mix, and seeds or plants are also needed for the DIY project.
Step-by-step Instructions
Prepare the Bottle
- Remove labels and wash the bottle thoroughly.
- Cut the soda bottle roughly in half using scissors or a craft knife.
Create Drainage Holes
- Poke several small holes in the bottom of the top half to allow excess water drainage and wick water up.
- Drill four to five small holes in the bottom half of the soda bottle for air holes.
Make a Water Reservoir
- Fill the bottom half of the bottle with water.
- If desired, insert a cotton or string wick through the bottle neck into the water reservoir. Alternatively, invert the top half into the bottom reservoir, creating a simple self-watering system without a wick.
Assemble the Planter
- Place the top half upside down into the water-filled bottom half, with the bottle neck inside the water reservoir.
- If desired, drill a very small hole in the bottom of the reservoir cap to regulate water flow and minimize soil washout during watering.
Plant
- Add soil and your plant or seeds into the top half of the bottle.
- Water the soil initially to get moisture started.
Maintain
- Refill the water reservoir as needed to keep your plant hydrated without daily watering.
The self-watering planter works by capillary action, drawing water from the reservoir through the soil, maintaining consistent moisture. This simple and eco-friendly way to recycle plastic bottles keeps plants watered efficiently.
For a clean, clear bottle, remove the label from the top section. Smooth the edge of the top section to avoid sharp edges. A 3-inch potted plant fits well in a 1.25-liter bottle. With a little effort, you'll have a stylish and functional self-watering planter that's perfect for any space.
This project can be extended to incorporate gardening in your home-and-garden lifestyle, as it demonstrates the creation of a simple self-watering planter using a plastic soda bottle. Furthermore, by adding a home-grown plant to this eco-friendly planter, you're not only contributing to a sustainable lifestyle but also enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your lifestyle, turning it into a home-and-garden oasis.
