Make Self-Watering Planters from Plastic Bottles

Difficulty: easy

Learn to make self-watering planters from recycled plastic bottles. This easy upcycling project helps maintain consistent moisture for your plants and makes use of everyday items.

Make Self-Watering Planters from Plastic Bottles

Materials Needed

Plastic bottle (1-liter to 2-liter)	Buy
Cotton fabric or absorbent string	Buy
Potting mix	Buy
Plant of choice	Buy

Tools Needed

Utility knife or scissors	Buy
Marker (optional)	Buy

Steps

Prepare the Plastic Bottle
Start by cleaning the plastic bottle thoroughly. Remove any labels and ensure it is free from any sticky residue.
Cut the Bottle
Using a sharp utility knife or scissors, carefully cut the plastic bottle in half. The bottom half will serve as the water reservoir, and the top half will hold the soil and the plant.
Create a Wick
Cut a strip of cotton fabric or use a piece of absorbent string. Thread it through the bottle cap, ensuring that a portion of the wick will reach into the water reservoir when assembled.
Assemble the Planter
Invert the top half of the bottle (with the wick) and insert it into the bottom half. Make sure the wick reaches the bottom of the water reservoir.
Add Soil and Plant
Fill the top half with potting mix and plant your chosen plant. Water the soil to kickstart the wicking process.
Fill the Reservoir
Fill the bottom half with water. Ensure the wick is soaking up the water to keep the soil moist.

Make Self-Watering Planters from Plastic Bottles

Materials Needed

Tools Needed

Steps

Recycling Categories

Consumer Goods

Electronics

Organic Waste

Industrial Items