A quick search online will reveal that there are oh-so-many of different types of the self-watering systems to choose from, but which ones are guaranteed to work? The last thing you want is to fork out on an expensive gadget, only to come home to a shrivelled up garden. Nor do you want to buy something that isn't suitable for your planting, either watering it too much (or too little).
So where to start? When shopping for the best self-watering planters and systems, the first place to start is by looking at your plants. Are you an indoor gardener? Do you just have a balcony or a large container garden? Do you have an average-sized garden or needs something that will water a larger area? There are tailored options for each of the above so once you can narrow down your selection, you should be able to find the best self-watering system, gadget or gizmo to suit your needs.
To make life a little easier for you – and we're all about having an easy life – we've collated our favourite self-watering accessories below to help you in your search. Some will need using in conjunction with the best garden hose, while others are the whole package.
The best self-watering systems and planters for 2024
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Indoor, windowsill, balcony or garden, these ingenious devices will keep your plants watered when you can't do the job yourself...
1. The self-hydrating window box
2. The super smart Gardena watering system
3. The no-fuss self-watering spike
4. The indoor/outdoor plant pot on wheels
5. The smart, stackable self-watering planter
6. The container garden's self-watering saviour
How to choose the right self watering system
Choosing the right irrigation system is dependent on what you are watering and how hands off you need to be. You also need to consider how long you are likely to be away on holiday as some will hold enough water to cover a long weekend or a few days, while smart irrigation systems are designed to work for as long you need.
It all depends on whether your choice of best self-watering system is connected to a water source, such as an outdoor tap. If not, you will be limited by their tank capacity. Be mindful that you will need to avoid overwatering too, so before you pick what type you need, learn a bit about watering plants.
Self-watering planters
These are best suited to container gardening ideas and houseplants, or kitchen herb gardens. They hold enough water to keep your plant fresh for a number of days, or a couple of weeks. There are some that can manage months of watering too, but this will despond on climate and exposure.
Look for a self-watering planter that regulates how much water the plant drinks so that the soil doesn't become waterlogged. We also like options like those from Lechuza that have water indicators so you never forget to top it up.
Watering spikes
The most basic of self-watering systems are spikes. Some are ornate like the option we have shown above, but if you need something utilitarian for a greenhouse or your best indoor plants while you are away, check out the large range of self watering spikes on Amazon. They aren't pretty but they are very affordable and make use of any old plastic bottles you have, meaning you can choose how many litres of water you hook up.
Smart watering systems
The most expensive – but most flexible – best self-watering systems are smart watering systems. These are connected to the mains and programmed via your smart phone. There are a few choices out there with Hozelock and Gardena offering some of the most advanced systems, but most will offer scheduling options. These are not just great for watering plants while away on holiday, but can take the daily effort out of keeping your garden thriving.
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