Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a newbie just trying to grow a few plants, one of the most important things you need to consider is watering. Plants need a steady supply of water to thrive, and one way to ensure this is to use a self-watering planter. In this article, we’ll show you how to make a DIY self watering planter soda bottle that’s perfect for growing herbs, flowers, and small vegetables.
Materials Needed
Before we dive into the step-by-step guide, let’s go over the materials you’ll need to create your own self-watering planter.
- Empty soda bottle
- Cotton string or shoelace
- Scissors or box cutter
- Small plants or seeds
- Potting soil
Step-by-Step Guide
Now that we have our materials ready, let’s start making our self-watering planter.
Step 1: Cut the Bottle
Take your empty soda bottle and cut it in half using scissors or a box cutter. Make sure to smooth out any rough edges, so it’s safe and neat.
Step 2: Add the String
Take a cotton string or shoelace and cut it to about six inches long. Make sure it’s long enough to reach from the top half of the bottle to the bottom half. Tie one end of the string around the bottle’s neck and drop the other end inside the bottle until it touches the bottom.
Step 3: Fill the Bottom Half with Water
Fill the bottom half of the bottle with water, making sure it doesn’t touch the string. The string will act as a wick to pull water from the bottom to the top half of the bottle, keeping the soil moist.
Step 4: Add Potting Soil
Add potting soil to the top half of the bottle, making sure to leave enough space for your plants or seeds.
Step 5: Plant and Water
Plant your seeds or small plants in the soil and water them thoroughly. As the soil dries, the string will pull water from the bottom to keep the soil moist. Refill the bottom half of the bottle with water as needed.
Concluding Thoughts
Making your own DIY self-watering planter soda bottle is an easy and affordable way to keep your plants hydrated. Plus, it’s a great way to upcycle empty plastic bottles and reduce your carbon footprint. With just a few materials and simple steps, you can create a self-watering planter that will make your plants thrive.
FAQs
Can I use any size of soda bottle?
Yes, you can use any size of soda bottle, but it’s best to use a larger bottle for bigger plants.
Do I need to refill the water every day?
It depends on how quickly the soil dries up. Check the soil regularly and add water to the bottom half of the bottle as needed.
Can I use a different type of string?
Yes, you can use any type of cotton string or even a nylon rope. Just make sure the string is absorbent and can wick water up to the soil.
