- Determine desired finished plant height.
- Build an elevated base with waterproof material. We recommend green flower foam.
- Place a saucer and grow pot on top of the elevated waterproof material.
- Prepare the container for planting by drilling one or more small drainage holes in the bottom of the fiberglass pot. Make the diameter of the holes roughly 1/4-inch up to 1-inch depending upon the size of the container.
- Place screening material at the base of the container, and add 1 to 2 inches of base rock. This step is optional but will aid drainage and prevent blockage.
- Fill the fiberglass container roughly halfway up the sides with lightweight, bagged potting mix. Test for plant height as you want the plant to sit at the same level in the soil as it occupied in its previous location. You also want to maintain at least 1 inch of space from the soil surface to the top of the container to act as a watering catch.
- Determine what type and how many plants that you will need. Have the following ready: IAP container, casters (optional), sufficient quantity of growing media (lighter soil mixes with larger particles and more air space), water source, knife or scissors, and filter fabric.
- Add grating to the interior of the container, it may be necessary to tilt and angle in order to clear the top lip. The grate should be level and well supported all the way around the interior of the container.
- Size and cut your filter fabric to cover the grating. This will prevent the soil from entering the water reservoir. You will have to create openings in the filter fabric in order to install the fill tube and the wicks. Cut an “X” in the desired openings of the grate and insert the wicks and fill tube.
- Now you’re ready to pack moist soil into the wicks, the wick will allow water to saturate the soil and provide a way for the moisture to move to the upper chamber. Do not skip this step, the unit will not work if soil is not moist.
- Before you add your soil mix be sure that all gaps around the grate are filled with filler material, if you’re a little short cut small strips of the screening material and pack into the gaps. This will keep the soil in the upper chamber.
- Fill the container with soil and plants within several inches from the top of the container. For typical irrigation, water thoroughly from the top and ensure all of the soil has been moistened. Depending upon the environment and the season you will have to water at different frequencies. Keep an eye on the water level and make sure there is a little air between the top level of the water and the grate, if you overfill the water will come out of the overflow. In cold regions you will void warranty if standing water remains in the container. If allowed to freeze you can damage your containers. To determine how often you need to water stick your finger about 1” deep into the soil. If it is dry it is time to water.
*The self watering system is designed to reduce the frequency of watering, not replace it. You will still need to monitor and check the moisture of the soil weekly. To insure your plants are getting sufficient water. Depending upon your climate you will need to water the soil as needed. IAP can not guarantee or be responsible for your plants. It is your responsibility to properly set-up and monitor the system. This is designed as an aid not a total solution.