Setting Up Your Wicking Bed

Step-by-Step Instructions and Tips

Wicking beds are an innovative solution that allow plants to absorb water from below, creating a self-watering system that’s efficient and sustainable. With Wicking Australia’s wicking bed kits, setting up your own water-wise garden has never been easier. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to set up your wicking bed using our kits, so you can enjoy healthier plants with less watering effort.

Why Choose a Wicking Bed?

Wicking beds make gardening more convenient and sustainable. Here are just a few reasons why they’re a great choice for your garden:

  • Consistent Moisture for Healthier Plants: Plants receive water directly from the roots, ensuring even moisture levels that help reduce stress and promote growth.
  • Water Conservation: Wicking beds use significantly less water than traditional garden beds, as water is stored in a reservoir and drawn up by plants as needed.
  • Low Maintenance: With a built-in water reservoir, wicking beds require less frequent watering, freeing you from daily garden upkeep.

What’s Included in a Wicking Australia Wicking Planter Box & Kits?

Our planter boxes & kits come with everything you need to set up a wicking bed, designed for optimal water distribution and convenience. Each kit includes:

  • Wicking Bed Planter Box: Durable and designed for effective water storage.
  • Reservoir Layer: Built-in to hold water and provide a steady moisture source.
  • Wicking Material: Perlite, specially selected to create a continuous water flow from the reservoir to the soil.
  • Overflow Pipe: Prevents overfilling and maintains the correct water level.
  • Inflow Pipe: For easy refilling of the reservoir.

Setting Up Your Wicking Bed with Our Kit

With our Planter boxes & wicking kits, setting up a wicking bed is straightforward and fast. Follow these steps to start growing with confidence:

1. Choose Your Location

Select a sunny spot where your wicking bed will get adequate light for your chosen plants. Place the planter box in its designated location before you begin filling it, as it may be difficult to move once it’s set up.

2. Install the Overflow Pipe

Your wicking kit comes with an overflow pipe designed to maintain optimal water levels in the reservoir. This pipe prevents overwatering by allowing excess water to drain when the reservoir is full. Make sure it’s properly fitted according to the kit instructions.

3. Add the Wicking Material

Our kits come with a specially designed wicking layer called perlite that maximizes water flow to the roots of your plants. Place the perlite in the bottom of the container, creating a reservoir for water storage and even distribution to the soil.

4. Insert the Inflow Pipe

Position the fill tube at one end of the bed, allowing you to easily add water to the reservoir as needed.

5. Add the Soil Layer

Fill the container with quality, well-draining soil (you may wish to add some compost or other organic matter to enhance plant nutrition). The soil should be deep enough to provide ample space for plant roots while allowing for good water wicking. Your kit’s design will ensure that the soil and wicking material work together to maintain ideal moisture levels.

6. Plant and Water

Once the soil is in place, add your plants to the bed. After planting, water from the top once to help your plants establish in the new environment. Then, fill the reservoir using the inflow pipe until water flows from the overflow pipe. This is a sign that the reservoir is full, and from this point on, your plants will be watered from below.

Tips for Maximizing Your Wicking Bed’s Performance

Now that your wicking bed is set up, here are some tips to keep it functioning at its best:

  • Monitor Water Levels: Check the water level in the reservoir every 2–3 weeks, especially in warmer weather, and refill as needed.
  • Use Mulch: Adding a layer of mulch on top of the soil can help retain moisture and extend the time between refills.
  • Choose Water-Loving Plants: Wicking beds are ideal for plants that prefer consistent moisture, like leafy greens, tomatoes, herbs, and root vegetables.
  • Adjust for Seasons: During the cooler months, your plants may need less water, so monitor the soil to avoid overfilling.

Explore our range and take the first step towards a greener, water-saving garden!