Would this work as a way of keeping soil in a plant pot moist ?

Discussion in 'Container Gardening' started by hi2u_uk, Sep 22, 2024.

  1. hi2u_uk

    hi2u_uk Gardener

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    It seems the idea is that if the soil is dry then the roots of the plant would just draw water in from the bottle at the end of the tube.
    It seems very simple, how likely is this to work ?



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    • pete

      pete Growing a bit of this and a bit of that....

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      Zero in my opinion.
      You would be better off with capillary matting and letting the water come up via the drainage holes in the pot.
       
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      • Pete8

        Pete8 Gardener

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        I can't see any way that would work.
        Just because to compost dries out it won't suck water out of the bottle - it could only work if the pressure in the compost reduces enough to suck the water through the tube - and I can't see any reason for that to happen.
         
      • NigelJ

        NigelJ Total Gardener

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        You might siphon all the water out of the bottle onto the bench.
         
      • Plantminded

        Plantminded Head Gardener

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        No, that won’t work, capillary matting would be better, as @pete says. Also, if that’s being kept as a house plant, it’s better to let the compost dry out between watering to avoid root rot and potential diseases. The pot should also have a clear drainage hole.
         
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          Last edited: Sep 22, 2024
        • hi2u_uk

          hi2u_uk Gardener

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          Oh thats disappointing, i found an internet webpage earlier today that said this should work
           
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          • Plantminded

            Plantminded Head Gardener

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            If you replaced the tubing with a wick @hi2u_uk , that might work. There’s lots of information about this type of watering on line, often used as a temporary measure when on holiday. Have a go with another plant (I wouldn’t want you to sacrifice your Caladium :)).
             
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            • CostasK

              CostasK Gardener

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              That sounds similar to the below. I am using one of these, and it works extremely well, the plant I use it for has never been happier.
               

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              • Plantminded

                Plantminded Head Gardener

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                They look very smart @CostasK, good to know they work :blue thumb:.
                 
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