Watering Using Capillary Matting
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.