From the page: A PET bottle holds more value than it seems
Idea 1
Cut self-watering planter
The self-watering planter is an old nursery growers' technique: the plant draws water by capillarity, as needed, by the same principle that makes a candle wick pull up fuel. This avoids both drought and root rot, because moisture comes from below, constant and gentle.
What you need
- A clean 2-liter PET bottle
- Craft knife or strong scissors
- Chalk stick or tape for marking
- Cotton string wick or a strip of cotton fabric
- Soil (substrate) and a seedling or seeds
- A small pebble or fine gravel
How to make it
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1
Mark the bottle at the halfway point and cut with the craft knife, rotating the bottle gradually so the cut comes out straight and safe.
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2
Make a small hole in the cap and thread the wick through it, leaving about 2 inches on each side — it will be the bridge that carries water by capillarity up to the soil.
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3
Fill the lower base with about 3 inches of water and fit the top part upside down, like a funnel.
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4
Place the pebble over the mouth of the bottle to hold the substrate in place and make drainage easier.
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5
Fill with soil and plant your seedling or seeds, pressing lightly to settle it.
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6
Water from above only the first time, so the soil settles, and refill the base water whenever it gets low.
Finishing touches
Ideal for herbs like mint, basil, and chives, which like constant moisture. Paint the outside of the bottle to protect the roots from light and add extra charm.
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