Hey everyone! I'm leaning towards trying out self-watering pots for my Stromanthe, but I'm curious about your experiences with them. Have any of you used self-watering pots? If so, which plants did you use them for, and what are your thoughts on their effectiveness?
3 Answers
Self-watering pots can be a game changer, especially for busy plant parents! They really help keep moisture consistent for tropical plants. However, it’s essential to use a good chunky mix that won't compact because if the soil is too tight, you might end up overwatering, leading to root rot. Just be sure not to add more water if the plant has had access to moisture for a while—let the reservoir run dry first before top watering. Overall, most tropical plants thrive in these setups if you understand how to balance watering methods!
What specific substrate mix do you use for your self-watering pots?
I've been using wick-watering for most of my plants, and it works great! Particularly for varieties like African Violets which appreciate moisture. Just a tip—make sure to fill the water container regularly, I used to wait until the soil was dry, but that’s not ideal. Maintaining that moisture level is key! Enjoy experimenting, I think you'll find success but keeping a close eye at first is important.
Yeah, I’ve been cautious too! Just don’t forget to top off the reservoir before it gets super dry.
I've had mixed results with self-watering pots. They’re fantastic for some plants like my Alocasia and Anthuriums, but for others, I found the soil ended up too wet. If you're using regular potting soil, it might retain too much water. Just make sure to adapt the soil mix for the plants you're using. Good luck with your Stromanthe; they can be finicky, but worth it if you get the watering right!
I’m kind of nervous about the wet soil issue. Is it really possible to save a plant from root rot?
This info is super helpful, thanks! I bet my peace lily would appreciate this too.