How to Build Self Watering Herb Garden

Have you ever dreamed of having a fresh supply of herbs right at your fingertips, but found yourself forgetting to water them? Or maybe you're tired of coming home to wilted plants because your busy schedule doesn't allow for daily watering.

Well, what if I told you there's a solution that makes herb gardening easy and stress-free? Welcome to the world of self-watering herb gardens!

How to Build a Self-Watering Herb Garden

Building a self-watering herb garden might sound like a complicated task, but it’s actually quite simple and fun. Here are two methods you can choose from: a moderately expensive setup and an eco-friendly, cost-free option using recycled plastic bottles.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Bucket:
   • Drill a drainage hole about 2 inches from the bottom of the 40L bucket. This will prevent overfilling.
2. Create the Wicking Chamber:
   • Place the 5-inch plant pot upside down in the bottom center of the bucket. This will act as a wicking chamber, drawing water up into the soil.
   • Cut the perforated twin wall drainage pipe to fit around the plant pot. This will help create a water reservoir.
3. Insert the PVC Pipe:
   • Cut the 1" PVC pipe to the height of the bucket. This will be used to fill the reservoir with water.
   • Insert the PVC pipe into the bucket, ensuring it reaches the bottom. It should stand upright along the inner wall of the bucket.
4. Add Landscaping Fabric:
   • Place the landscaping fabric over the perforated pipe and the plant pot. This will prevent soil from entering the water reservoir while allowing water to wick up.
5. Fill with Soil:
   • Fill the bucket with multi-purpose potting mix, ensuring the fabric stays in place.
6. Plant Your Herbs:
   • Plant your herb seeds or seedlings in the soil. Make small holes, place the seeds or seedlings, and cover them lightly with soil.
7. Fill the Reservoir:
   • Fill the reservoir through the PVC pipe until water begins to come out of the drainage hole. The self-watering system will ensure that the soil remains moist by drawing water up as needed.
8. Initial Watering:
   • Water the soil from the top to help the seeds or seedlings settle in and to activate the wicking system.

Here’s a video guide by Lovely Greens to help you with this method

Using Recycled Plastic Bottles - Cost-Free 

This method is a fantastic way to recycle plastic bottles and create a self-watering herb garden without any cost.

Materials Needed

• Two large plastic bottles (1.5 or 2 liters)
• Cotton string or old shoelace
• Herb seeds or seedlings
• Potting soil
• Water

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Bottles:
   • Cut one of the plastic bottles in half. The bottom part will serve as the water reservoir, and the top part will hold the soil and herbs.
   • Poke a small hole in the bottle cap and thread a piece of cotton string or an old shoelace through it, leaving about half inside and half outside the bottle.
2. Assemble the Planter:
   • Place the top part of the bottle upside down into the bottom part, ensuring the string hangs down into the water reservoir.
3. Add the Soil:
   • Fill the top part of the bottle with potting soil, making sure the string is buried in the soil.
4. Plant Your Herbs:
   • Plant your herb seeds or seedlings in the soil. Make small holes, place the seeds or seedlings, and cover them lightly with soil.
5. Fill the Reservoir:
   • Fill the bottom part of the bottle with water. The string will wick water up into the soil, keeping it consistently moist.
6. Initial Watering:
   • Water the soil from the top to help the seeds or seedlings settle in and to start the wicking process.

Here’s a video guide by Balcony & Gardens, growing self watering Lettuce plant:

And there you have it! You’ve just built your own self-watering herb garden. Easy, right?

Before diving into choosing the right location for your newly built self-watering system, let’s address the common mistakes and then, the best herbs to plant. Let's go!

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Overfilling the Reservoir:

Overfilling the reservoir can lead to waterlogged soil and root rot. Always follow the recommended water level guidelines and monitor the moisture levels in the soil.

Ignoring Drainage:

Proper drainage is crucial in a self-watering system. Ensure that your container has adequate drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating and causing root rot.

Using the Wrong Soil Mix:

Using heavy or compact soil can hinder the wicking process. Use a well-draining, lightweight potting mix specifically designed for container gardening.

Neglecting Regular Maintenance:

Regularly check and clean the self-watering system to prevent clogs and ensure it functions properly. Also, inspect the wicking mechanism to ensure it's working correctly.

Incorrect Placement:

Placing self-watering containers in areas with insufficient light or extreme temperatures can affect the growth of your herbs. Ensure they are placed in an optimal location with the right amount of sunlight and temperature.

Not Adjusting for Seasonal Changes:

As seasons change, so do the water needs of your plants. Adjust the water level in the reservoir and monitor soil moisture more frequently during hot, dry periods or when transitioning between seasons.

Assuming All Herbs Have the Same Water Needs:

Different herbs have different water requirements. Research the specific needs of each herb and adjust the self-watering system accordingly to prevent overwatering or underwatering.

Forgetting to Refill the Reservoir:

While self-watering systems reduce the frequency of manual watering, they still require periodic refilling. Set reminders to check and refill the reservoir to ensure your herbs receive consistent moisture.

Self-Watering Herb Garden Indoor

Indoor herb gardens are a fantastic way to bring a bit of green into your home and have fresh herbs at your disposal year-round. Plus, with a self-watering system, it’s even easier to maintain.

Choosing the Right Spot

Find a sunny spot in your home, like a windowsill, where your herbs can get at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. If natural light is limited, consider using grow lights to ensure your herbs get enough light.

Benefits of Indoor Herb Gardens

Indoor herb gardens not only provide fresh herbs but also improve air quality and add a lovely green touch to your decor. Plus, they are a great way to introduce gardening to kids and beginners.

Outdoor Self-Watering Herb Garden

If you have some outdoor space, a self-watering herb garden can be a fantastic addition. It’s perfect for balconies, patios, or even a small backyard.

Choosing the Right Location

Choose a spot that gets plenty of sunlight. Herbs love the sun, so aim for a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.

Protecting Your Garden

Outdoor gardens face challenges like pests and weather conditions. Consider using a mesh cover to protect your herbs from pests, and make sure your self-watering system can handle rainy conditions without overflowing.

Best Herbs for Self-Watering Pots

Not all herbs are created equal when it comes to self-watering pots. Here are some of the best herbs that thrive in these conditions:

Self-Watering Pots for Indoor Plants

Self-watering pots are a game-changer for indoor gardening. They make it easier to keep your plants hydrated and healthy without the constant need to water.

Types of Self-Watering Pots

There are various types of self-watering pots available, from simple DIY setups to sophisticated systems. Some popular options include:

• Simple Wicking Systems: These use a wick to draw water from a reservoir into the soil.
• Capillary Action Systems: These use a combination of soil and water-absorbent materials to keep the soil moist.
• Integrated Reservoir Pots: These have a built-in reservoir at the bottom of the pot.

Choosing the Right Pot

When choosing a self-watering pot, consider the size of the herb and the space you have. Make sure the pot is big enough for the herb’s roots to grow.

Self-Watering Windowsill Planter

A self-watering windowsill planter is a great way to utilize limited space and have fresh herbs right at your kitchen window.

Setting Up a Windowsill Planter

Use the same step-by-step guide listed above.

Benefits of a Windowsill Planter

Having a windowsill planter means your herbs are always within reach when cooking. Plus, it adds a lovely green touch to your kitchen.

Self-Watering Planters

Self-watering planters are not just for herbs; they’re great for all types of plants. Here’s why you should consider using them:

General Benefits

• Consistent Moisture: These planters ensure your plants always have the right amount of water.
• Less Maintenance: They reduce the need for frequent watering.
• Healthier Plants: Plants grow better with consistent moisture levels.

Types of Self-Watering Planters

• Hanging Planters: Great for saving space and adding greenery to your home.
• Balcony Planters: Perfect for urban gardeners with limited space.
• Large Garden Planters: Ideal for bigger plants or multiple herbs.

Maintenance Tips

To keep your self-watering planters working efficiently:

• Clean the Reservoir: Regularly clean the reservoir to prevent algae and mold buildup.
• Check the Water Level: Ensure the reservoir always has water.
• Inspect the Wicking Material: Make sure the wick is not clogged or deteriorating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is self-watering good for herbs?

Yes, self-watering systems are generally good for herbs as they provide a consistent water supply, which can help herbs thrive. The self-watering mechanism ensures that the plants receive water as needed, preventing overwatering and underwatering.

Can you overwater a self-watering plant?

While self-watering systems are designed to prevent overwatering, it is still possible if the reservoir is too large or if the soil does not drain well. It's important to monitor the water level and ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogged roots.

Do herbs need to be watered daily?

Herbs typically do not need to be watered daily, especially with a self-watering system. These systems help maintain optimal moisture levels, reducing the frequency of manual watering. However, the specific needs may vary depending on the type of herb and the growing conditions.

Is self-watering good for basil?

Yes, basil benefits from a self-watering system as it prefers consistent moisture. A self-watering container helps maintain the right moisture level, promoting healthy growth and preventing the soil from drying out too quickly.

What are the disadvantages of self-watering plants?

Some disadvantages include the potential for root rot if the system is not properly managed, the initial cost of setting up self-watering containers, and the need for occasional maintenance to ensure the system functions correctly. Additionally, some plants may not adapt well to self-watering systems.

How does a self-watering system work?

A self-watering system typically consists of a reservoir that holds water and a wicking mechanism that draws water into the soil as needed. This system helps maintain consistent moisture levels, reducing the need for frequent manual watering.

What types of herbs can be grown in a self-watering garden?

 Most common herbs such as basil, parsley, mint, thyme, oregano, and chives can thrive in a self-watering garden. It's important to consider the specific water needs of each herb when setting up your system.

How often should I refill the reservoir in a self-watering planter?

The frequency of refilling the reservoir depends on the size of the reservoir, the type of herbs, and the environmental conditions. Generally, you may need to refill it every 1-2 weeks. Regularly check the water level to ensure your plants have a consistent water supply.

Can I use self-watering systems for indoor and outdoor herb gardens?

Yes, self-watering systems can be used for both indoor and outdoor herb gardens. They are versatile and can help maintain optimal moisture levels in various growing environments.

Do I need to fertilize herbs in a self-watering system?

Yes, herbs in self-watering systems still require fertilization. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer according to the specific needs of your herbs. Fertilize periodically to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.

Final Thoughts

Self-watering herb gardens are a fantastic solution for anyone who loves fresh herbs but struggles with keeping them watered. Whether you choose to set up an indoor or outdoor garden, use self-watering pots or windowsill planters, you’ll find that this system makes herb gardening easier and more enjoyable.

So, why not give it a try? Your future self – and your herbs – will thank you!

Happy gardening!