Watering globes have become a popular gardening tool to help simplify plant irrigation and maintenance. These spherical devices sit in the soil next to plants and slowly release water over time right to the root zone. Watering globes provide a self-contained, hands-free way to extend the time between waterings while keeping your plants hydrated and healthy. They are useful for gardeners going on vacation, those prone to forgetting regular watering, or anyone looking to streamline and automate their watering routine.
When set up properly and used judiciously, terracotta, glass, or plastic globes can be a great asset for convenience and plant care. They provide consistent moisture without the soil staying overly wet. However, there are some key tips to follow for watering globes to work effectively. Paying attention to placement, water volume released per day, sink depth, and other factors outlined here will help you succeed with these useful self-watering tools in your indoor and outdoor container gardens.
What Are Self Watering Globes?
Self-watering globes are an innovative gardening product designed to automatically water plants and gardens for you. They are simple yet clever spherical devices, usually made of durable BPA-free plastic, that slowly but steadily release a steady supply of water to plant roots without the need for manual watering.
Inside the globe is a reservoir that holds water and a graduated opening. As the soil dries out and moisture levels drop around the roots, water is drawn out via the opening due to gravity and capillary action. This allows the globe to automatically Ā«senseĀ» when the plants need more water and deliver just the right amount.
The water is then released through tiny holes in the bottom of the globe in a drip-like fashion directly onto the root zone surrounding the plant. This controlled, slow release of moisture emulates how plants would naturally be watered with rainfall and provides a consistent level of moisture ideal for healthy roots and growth.
The size of the globe, size of the opening, and number/size of holes can all be customized to control the flow rate and cater to specific plant needs. Larger volumes hold more water, for example, allowing less frequent refills.
Made from durable plastic, self-watering globes can be used season after season. And since they water plants automatically, gardeners don’t have to worry about manually watering if they are away on vacation. This makes them an incredibly convenient and effective gardening aid.
Self-watering globes are an innovative way to hydrate plants by automatically sensing moisture levels and delivering water as needed for optimal plant health and growth. Their automated functionality saves time, while their customizable flow rate and durable construction make them ideal for all types of gardens.
How Does a Watering Bulb Work?
A self-watering bulb, often called a watering globe or reservoir globe, works through a simple yet clever mechanism to automatically deliver water to the roots of a plant. Here is an overview of how they function.
The main sphere-shaped bulb that sits in the soil has thick, plastic walls that contain an internal water reservoir. A graduated opening sits atop this reservoir, which allows water to exit into the soil. The size of this opening controls flow rate.
Beneath the reservoir are tiny holes, or wicking points, that dot the bottom surface of the bulb. It is through these holes that the stored water can drip out to penetrate the surrounding root zone. More holes allow for faster water dispersal.
As the plant uses soil moisture for growth and transpiration, the moisture levels drop around the bulb and the surrounding soil becomes increasingly dry. When the soil moisture drops below a certain threshold, it will begin to draw water out of the reservoir via capillary action and suction pressure differential.
Following the path of least resistance, the water gets pulled into the drier surrounding soil through the opening at the top and oozes out steadily through the holes at the bottom. This results in a controlled release directly into the root zone based on when the plant needs it.
Once saturated, the soil then stops drawing water from the globe. The globe waits until the plant has used up more moisture again, at which point it replenishes it with another steady release. This cycle repeats automatically as conditions change in the soil.
The watering bulb needs to be refilled every few days to a week, depending on environmental factors. Many bulbs have fill lines to indicate volume for different sized plants. When planting, itās recommended to position the bulb, so its reservoir bottom is lateral to the lower root system. Its elegant mechanism keeps plant roots perfectly hydrated all season with no batteries, power, or human effort required.
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Why You Should Use a Plant Watering Globe?
Self-watering plant globes offer gardeners a convenient, mess-free way to ensure plants get adequate moisture while saving time and effort. There are many excellent reasons to use a plant watering globe:
- It waters plants automatically. When the soil moisture drops, a watering globe automatically releases water into the soil. The water flows out through small holes at the bottom of the globe into the root zone. This automatic mechanism means you don’t have to remember to water your plants manually.
- It prevents over and under-watering. A watering globe delivers the perfect amount of moisture directly to the roots only when the plant needs it. The flow rate can be customized so larger or smaller plants get the right amount of moisture. Too much or too little water can cause plant health issues, but these globes prevent both problems. Your plants receive the ideal moisture levels automatically.
- You can go on long vacations worry-free. One major benefit of the self-watering bulbs is that they allow gardeners to take longer trips away from home without coming back to dead plants. The globe mechanism will keep watering the plants in your absence per their needs. You can relax on your vacation knowing your garden is still being maintained.
- It saves time and effort while gardening. Filling up one watering globe takes less than a minute, and that small effort keeps plants consistently hydrated for a week or longer between refills. It is much easier than daily or tedious hand watering of every plant individually. Once installed, the globe handles watering autonomously, so you save time.
- They are durable and eco-friendly. Most watering globes are made of thick, chemical-free plastic, which makes them crack proof and reusable for many seasons. Not having to replace broken globes or plastic containers annually is cost-effective. Being reusable and non-toxic to soil also makes them an environmentally friendly choice for low maintenance gardening.
- It’s ideal for potted plants and gardens. Self-watering globes can be used equally well for potted patio plants or vegetable gardens. Their versatility and customizable water flow works for containers and in-ground plantings alike. Automated watering keeps balcony petunias as healthy as tomatoes in raised beds.
- Globes are simple to set up and use. Getting started with a water globe is fast and easy ā just bury it to the fill line next to plants, fill the reservoir through the opening, and let the globe handle the rest! No tubing, batteries, or complicated parts are involved.
When It Is Best to Use Watering Globes?
Watering globes can be a useful tool to help care for plants in a variety of situations. They really shine when their automated, self-watering mechanism offers distinct advantages over standard planting methods.
The set-and-forget functionality of watering globes makes them ideal for gardeners that travel frequently or for long periods of time. Installing a globe means plants get consistent moisture while a gardener is on vacation, avoiding the hassle of having neighbors manually water or the risk of returning to dried up, damaged plants if no help was available.
They are also extremely beneficial for new seedlings that require reliably moist soil to sprout and survive. The constant yet controlled dripping of water globes creates the perfect levels of humidity for sensitive sprouts. Once seeds have sprouted, the globes provide ongoing hydration critical for the seedlings to mature.
Watering globes truly excel in hot, dry climates where soil dries out swiftly between rainfalls. The one-two punch of blazing sun and lack of rain causes moisture levels to plummet rapidly. Here, a globe can mimic natural rainfall through steady releases directly to plant roots. This prevents moisture loss between infrequent rains.
Those gardening in raised beds and planters will find watering globes very effective during the peak summer months. The shallow soil depth causes moisture to dissipate faster, meaning more frequent watering is necessary. Globes alleviate the chore of frequent hydration by delivering water automatically as soil demands.
For busy gardeners overwhelmed by daily watering needs, self-watering globes reduce the workload substantially while still meeting plant requirements. Just periodic refilling of globes cuts down the hands-on watering chore without compromising plant health and growth goals.
Any situation where consistent soil moisture is difficult to maintain manually will benefit from the automated assistance of watering globes. Their set-and-forget functionality shines for travelers, seed starters, hot & dry regions, containers, and time-crunched gardeners alike.
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Watering Globes Usage Instruction
Watering globes are designed for straightforward installation and hassle-free operation each gardening season. Just follow these simple steps for using your globe effectively.
Prepare the Globe
Before installation, inspect your globe to ensure it is intact and clean of dirt or debris around the holes. Check that the flow control opening is clear and adjusted to the desired setting based on plant water needs. Annual inspection ensures proper water flow.
When preparing for a new season, remove old soil and mineral deposits by washing the globe with mild soap and water, including the interior reservoir. Rinse thoroughly. This prevents clogged openings and maintains full flow rate from the reservoir into the soil.
Fill with Water
Filling the watering globe reservoir is fast and simple. Place the globe opening under a faucet, or submerge the entire globe in a larger container filled with water. Allow water to fill up inside. New users can follow the engraved fill line inside the reservoir to gauge volume.
Once full, remove the globe from the water source and allow any excess water to drain out from the fill hole before installation. Check water levels and refill every 2ā5 days for most plants depending on environment, plant size, and the globes flow rate specifications. Consistently filling when the reservoir is low ensures the soil moisture remains ideal.
Insert into the Soil
Dig a hole in the soil near the plantās roots, approximately an inch deeper than the height of the watering globe. Avoid damaging any roots during this process. Place the filled globe into the hole, making sure holes for water release are facing downward, and fill the hole with soil, lightly compacting the soil.
The globe should now sit in the ground, with the top 1ā3 protruding above the surface. This allows you to easily check water levels and refill as needed, while still giving water and nutrients ample opportunity to spread from the insertion point. Take care not to completely bury the globe.
Monitor the Plant
Observe the plant frequently over the first few weeks to ensure it is receiving adequate moisture and appears healthy. Excess water or dryness may indicate improper positioning or water flow rate issues. Troubleshoot as required, and adjust the globe flow control setting up or down accordingly.
Beyond initial adjustments, occasional visual inspection of the reservoir level through the transparent upper portion of the globe is recommended to identify when refilling is required. Top up the water every 2ā5 days to maintain consistent moisture to the roots as the plant grows.
Maintenance of a Watering Bulb
Properly caring for your self-watering bulbs will help them last for many gardening seasons while keeping plants sufficiently hydrated. Just a small amount of regular globe maintenance goes a long way.
The most important aspect is periodic cleaning, done at least annually. Remove mineral deposits and soil sediment by washing the globe with a mild natural soap and warm water. Use a soft brush or cloth to gently clean the interior reservoir as well as the outer surface. Thoroughly rinse away all soap residue afterwards.
Pay special attention to the holes on the bottom of the bulb where water flows out. Use a small brush or pipe cleaner to remove any blocked dirt or buildup, so the holes remain clear for water to drip through freely to plant roots. Keeping the holes open maintains full flow.
Additionally, check any flow control valves or adjustable openings at the top to ensure they can move freely and arenāt obstructed. These regulate the moisture release rate and need to function properly for the self-watering mechanism to work.
When refilling the bulb with water, add a small amount of hydrogen peroxide or lemon juice every few weeks. About a teaspoon per gallon of water is sufficient. This helps prevent algae and bacteria growth inside the reservoir, which can clog openings over time.
Storing the watering bulb properly in the off-season is also important. Drain any remaining water and allow to fully dry out. Place globes in a dry, sheltered spot until next planting season, safe from damage by weather or pets. Handle carefully when installing each subsequent year. With occasional cleaning, inspection, anti-microbial additives, and proper storage, a quality self-watering bulb should deliver 5ā10 years of reliable automated watering before needing replacement.
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Tips for Growing with Plant-Watering Bulbs
Getting the most out of self-watering plant bulbs requires following best practices. From setup and positioning to regular maintenance, adhere to these expert tips for efficiently growing healthy plants with watering globes.
Selecting a Pot Size
When using watering bulbs for potted plants and container gardens, choose a pot diameter proportional to the bulb size. Pair a small 2-3 inch globe with a 4-6 inch pot, or a large 5-7 inch globe can handle a 10-14 inch planter box. Too large of a container paired with too small of a water reservoir risks dry patches.
Additionally, monitor smaller pots more frequently, as they dry out quicker. Their limited soil capacity canāt retain moisture between globe refills as well as larger planters. Check soil moisture in small containers daily by touch. Contrastingly, extra large pots may need another globe inserted to sufficiently distribute moisture to the entire soil space.
Check the Seal
When installing your self-watering bulb, check that it creates a snug fit and complete seal within the soil, eliminating air pockets around the exterior reservoir. Air gaps can prevent moisture from being drawn out properly into surrounding soil. Gentle pressure around the bulb while backfilling soil will create the tight seal needed.
Additionally, ensure the soil surface is sloped away from the bulbās fill opening so rain or watering doesnāt pool and seep inside. A tight seal paired with a sloped surface forces moisture to only exit through holes near plant roots, exactly as intended in the watering globe design. This prevents leaks through upper openings.
Positioning the Globe
Bury the globe in the soil with its water release holes pointed downwards so water weeps directly into the root zone. Place it deep enough that the top is just visibly protruding from the soil. Avoid inserting it horizontally or fully burying the globe. Angled downward at roughly 45 degrees allows water to flow best with gravity.
The bulb should sit near the lower half of the root ball, not directly beneath the plant stem. This encourages roots to grow downwards, seeking water as it diffuses out slowly. Inserting nearer to lower roots also moistens a larger percentage of the root system for healthier plants.
Perform Regular Cleaning
Do inspect globes periodically and clean thoroughly at least yearly. Check flow holes for blockages, gently clear any obstructions around control valves, and address leaks if water seems to be escaping from non-release points. Periodic cleaning prevents inefficient water usage and uneven soil moisture distribution.
Additionally, add a teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide or lemon juice to the reservoir water every few weeks to prevent inside bacteria and algae buildup which can clog openings. This improves functionality and extends the lifespan of your self-watering water bulb season after season.
Water the Plants Before Placing the Bulb
Be sure to thoroughly saturate the soil surrounding the planting hole first before installing a watering bulb. Watering after insertion can create air pockets around the bulb edges, which hinders capillary moisture movement into soil. Presoaking allows the bulb to begin working immediately once buried in damp soil.
Additionally, hand water any new transplants at the time of planting if installing watering globes simultaneously, or wait a few days until establishing new plants before integrating the automated bulb system. Delicate new roots depend on immediate access to moisture, which the globes may not provide quickly enough when getting initialized.
Plants You Can Grow with Aqua Globes
When it comes to gardening with self-watering devices, almost any type of vegetable, herb, flower or houseplant can benefit from aqua globes’ automated irrigation. Some top options include:
- They grow very well with aqua globes providing a consistent moisture supply right at the roots. Determinate and indeterminate varieties thrive with globes when grown in cages or staked up. Cherry tomatoes or large slicers both get excellent hydration from watering bulbs in container gardens. The globes prevent blossom end rot and splitting from irregular watering.
- Especially bell peppers, also make great companions for aqua globes in vegetable gardens and patio containers. Their water needs to fluctuate at difference growth stages, which smart globes automatically accommodate. JalapeƱos, habaneros and other spicy pepper variants all grow wonderfully when paired with self-watering bulbs. The constant moisture ensures ideal fruiting.
- Basil, oregano, cilantro and parsley grow very lush and flavorful with aqua globes handling all their irrigation needs. Their shallow roots benefit from soil moisture staying consistently near the surface where globes release water. Whether in pots or garden beds, herbs thrive and avoid going to seed prematurely if moisture stays optimal with aqua globes care.
- Flower varieties. Petunias, pansies, marigolds and zinnias are also perfect candidates for aqua globe growing. Their long bloom periods mean they require soil hydration for months on end, not just weeks. Aqua globes are up to the task of keeping flowering annuals perfectly moist continuously over an entire growing season without ever drying out.
- They also thrive with aqua globes, like philodendrons, ferns, peace lilies, spider plants and dracaenas. The lower maintenance automated watering keeps indoor greenery healthy and avoids issues with overwatering. The moisture control prevents root rot while still meeting their demand for perpetually damp soil.
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FAQ
Is it recommended cleaning water globes?
Yes, it is recommended to periodically clean water globes. Removing mineral deposits and soil sediment ensures continued proper water flow through the globe's openings. Use mild soap and a soft brush to clean the interior reservoir and outer surfaces, along with the flow control valves and water release holes.
Are aqua globes suitable for all plant varieties?
No, aqua globes are not ideal for all plant varieties. While they work well for most garden vegetables, herbs, flowers, and houseplants, they are generally not recommended for cacti, succulents, and other drought-tolerant plants that prefer less frequent deep watering and an extremely well-draining soil mix. The constant moisture from aqua globes can harm these plants.
What refill frequency is required for aqua globes?
The refill frequency depends on factors like plant size, climate conditions affecting evaporation rates, and the flow rate specifications of the particular aqua globe product. In general, expect to refill the water reservoir of most standard aqua globes every 2ā5 days. Check soil moisture levels around the plants between refills to optimize the schedule.
Can I use water globes while Iām away on vacation?
Yes, one of the main benefits of water globes is they allow gardeners to take extended vacations without plants dying from lack of water. The automated self-watering mechanism will continue releasing moisture into the soil to meet the plants' needs, keeping the garden alive and well for weeks unattended. Just be sure to top off the globes before leaving on a trip.
Are aqua globes an effective way to prevent fungus gnats?
Yes, aqua globes can help prevent and get rid of fungus gnats. The controlled water releases create less moisture sitting on top of the soil compared to top-watering methods. This allows the topsoil to dry out properly between waterings, depriving fungus gnat larvae of their ideal damp habitat. Using aqua globes reduces the risk of dealing with bothersome and potentially harmful fungus gnats.
Can using a watering bulb harm my plants?
Watering bulbs are completely safe for use with plants provided they are used properly. The plastic construction contains no toxic chemicals that could leach into the soil, and they are BPA free. When installed alongside plant roots and refilled regularly, so water never runs dry, bulbs provide the ideal hydration control mechanism. The automated moisture regulation ensures plants get watered perfectly without chance of over or under-watering.
Should I use a self-watering globe for my succulents?
Water globes generally do not work well with succulents and cacti. These drought-tolerant plants require extremely well-draining soil and infrequent watering, which allows their root zone to completely dry out between occasional deep waterings. Water globes provide too consistent of moisture releases for how succulents grow. It can lead to potential root rot and other moisture-related issues. Water globes work better for plants that prefer consistently, evenly moist soil.
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