Automatic Watering for 2-Week Absence: Wick Systems and Self-Watering Planters

No Pumps/Timers Needed

Passive wick systems are cheaper, simpler, and more reliable.

Wick Irrigation (DIY)

1. Push fabric wick through drainage hole into root ball.
2. Other end dangles in water reservoir (cake box, bathtub).
3. Pot sits on inverted small pot (keeps bottom above water).
4. Test 1 week before trip.

Commercial Options

• New Pro Corp. (800-869-9285) – wicking materials, ready systems.
• Sippers (800-533-7661) – wicking stilts for pots <8".
• Self-watering planters – reservoirs with wicks/inserts/sensors. Many brands.

Critical: Soil Mix

Light, porous mix (peat + perlite + bark) is mandatory. Heavy soil = constant wet = root rot.

Succulents

Not ideal for wick systems (overwater risk). They can go 2+ weeks dry anyway.

Best Bet

Wick system: easiest install, lowest cost, works for most tropicals.