What’s a Self-Watering Container?

What they are is a cunning option for container gardening. First, unlike typical containers, these planters have no drainage holes in the bottom but do have an overflow hole.  There is a water reservoir at the bottom of the planter. The growing medium sits on a porous or perforated platform above the water, allowing the plant to absorb water as needed. They also visually show caregivers when the reservoir needs to be refilled.  

What are the Pros?

Several benefits stand out when considering the 3 best self-watering planters. Convenience, water conservation, healthier plants, nutrient retention and consistent watering stand out as the biggest plusses. These pots are ideal for busy people by reducing the need for constant watering. They are environmentally friendly and can benefit the plants themselves. When planted in a normal container, excess water drains out of the hole at the bottom, washing away nutrients. Self-watering containers are a closed-system, keeping vital nutrients remain in the soil to feed your plant. Optimal plant growth from consistent watering is the key advantage of self-watering planters. They provide the perfect amount of moisture with ease.

 And the Cons?

There are a few drawbacks to consider when looking to invest in self-watering containers. First, the water in a self-watering pot cannot be removed easily. It requires tipping the planter completely over on its side, which can be tricky to manage. It also can lead to spills of soil and water which may damage foliage. Second, plants that require very moist soil may struggle with bottom-up watering systems. Selecting appropriate plants for your self-watering container is important! Self-watering pots will never properly soak aquatic plants, for instance.

The 3 Best Self-Watering Planters:

Best Overall:

While researching, this one kept coming up in lists and reviews. A traditional look, inexpensive with great reviews, the Winston Porter Carmeron Self-Watering Planter is a winner. Best features of this guy are. Note that it doesn’t include a saucer. 

• Self-watering disk helps prevent damaging root rot and helps allow oxygen to easily access plant roots.
• All weather durability with UV protection
• The matte finish is made with a lightweight plastic resin material
• Optional knock-out drainage holes

Best Budget Option:

Well under $20 ($16.66, actually) this 8″ option from Amazon is great and a great way to start with self-watering containers. The HBServices USA 8″ Self-Watering and Self-Aerating Windowsill Garden comes in shiny white, boasts a very deep well capable of holding two weeks of water and has a bottom saucer to protect your floors and carpet. 

Best Splurge:

A favorite for size, aesthetics and versatility, the Glowpear Self-Watering Planter box is a little spendy, but a lovely choice. It’s listed on Amazon for $189 and currently has a $15 off coupon. Sturdy and safe, this rectangle planter is made of injection-molded HDPE, UV and corrosion-resistant, BPA-free, and food-safe. Glowpear units can be ‘plugged in’ to each other, for easy, integrated watering and increased growing space. It’s a raised unit and the reservoir is easily visible so you know when you need to refill with just a glance. Perfect for several plants at a time, making it a must for urban gardeners.