How to Make a Self Watering Tomato Planter

Tomatoes are a staple of many gardens, and growing them in a self watering tomato planter is a great way to ensure that they receive the proper amount of water without having to constantly monitor the soil moisture. In this article, we will go through the steps required to make your very own self watering tomato planter.

Materials Required

The materials required to make a self watering tomato planter are relatively simple, and can be found at your local hardware or gardening store. You will need:

A plastic storage container with a lid

A small container to act as the water reservoir

A piece of PVC pipe

A drill and drill bit

A tomato plant

Soil and fertilizer

Steps to Make a Self Watering Tomato Planter

Follow these steps to make your own self watering tomato planter:

Step 1: Drill Holes

Use a drill with a medium-sized drill bit to drill several holes in the bottom of the plastic storage container. These holes will allow excess water to drain out of the planter.

Step 2: Add the Water Reservoir

Place a small container, such as a plastic cup or a yogurt container, in the bottom of the plastic storage container. This will act as the water reservoir for your planter.

Step 3: Add the Drainage Pipe

Using a drill, create a hole in the side of the plastic storage container near the bottom. Insert the PVC pipe and secure it in place with a waterproof sealant or duct tape. This pipe will act as the drainage pipe, allowing excess water to escape.

Step 4: Add Soil and Fertilizer

Add a layer of soil to the bottom of the planter, and then add fertilizer. Repeat this layering process until the planter is about 2/3 full of soil.

Step 5: Add the Tomato Plant

Remove the tomato plant from its container and place it in the self watering planter. Make sure the roots are covered with soil and the plant is well-supported.

Step 6: Add Water

Pour water into the water reservoir through the PVC pipe. This will provide the plant with a constant supply of water.

Step 7: Cover and Monitor

Place the lid on the plastic storage container and monitor the soil moisture levels regularly. Refill the water reservoir through the PVC pipe as needed.

Conclusion

Building a self watering tomato planter is a easy way to ensure your tomato plants receive the proper amount of water throughout their growth. With the materials and steps listed in this article, you can create your own planter and watch your tomato plants thrive.