Capillary action or ‘wicking’ is the upward movement of a liquid via a surface such as from one bit of compost to another.

These Poinsettias have been placed on a micro perforated matting that allows water to be taken up by the plants in a capilliary action. From the mat the water is slowly drawn up to the pot and soil in the pot to water your plant.

It is a simple process to water the matting, set up a dripfeed system or syphon and the plant will then take up what it needs.

Benefits and Tips on Capillary Mats

• Water is taken up at the temperature of the matting so you avoid the shock of cold water.
• Plants shouldn’t become water logged as the capillary process slows as soil become wet.
• A bed of wet sand can be used as your own home made capillary watering system
• Advantages of capillary action include plants with delicate leaves not being damaged by the overhead watering and an even supply of water being consistently available.

Tips for ‘Wicking’

Matting works best when laid on a flat surface. My greenhouse bench has a large tray with a capillary mat inside.

Do not expect totally dry plants to take up moisture. If they are bone dry give them a soaking first.

Buy matting like this from amazon