How to Set Up a Capillary Watering System

Spring in the greenhouse can quickly become overwhelming, especially when you have an abundance of seedlings demanding constant attention. Regular watering can turn into a daunting chore, but there’s a simple solution to make life much easier—setting up a capillary matting watering system. Here’s my easy-to-follow guide, inspired by the method I’ve refined in my own greenhouse.

What is a Capillary Watering System?

Capillary watering uses a special absorbent material to draw water up from a tray to your plant pots, keeping your seedlings consistently moist without the risk of over watering. It significantly reduces your watering workload, allowing your seedlings to thrive effortlessly.

What You’ll Need:

• A Tray: Ideally a large tray, however, any tray that holds water will suffice. You can make this the correct size for your needs.
• A Platform: Essential for elevating pots above the water level. Use tiles, gravel holders, or even upturned seed trays. You want it to be low, no more than an inch maybe two.
• Capillary Matting: Fabric that will wick water up from the tray to your plant pots. I use capillary matting which you can buy easily from garden stores or online.

Step-by-Step Guide to Set Up Your Capillary Watering Bed:

1. Prepare Your Tray

Find a suitable tray to hold water. I use large trays intended for grow bags, but you can easily adapt this with smaller trays.

2. Insert the Platform

Place your platform inside the tray. It should be sturdy enough to hold your seedlings above the water, preventing them from sitting directly in it. Ensure the platform height keeps the matting within one to two inches of water to ensure proper wicking.

3. Add Capillary Matting

Cut your capillary matting to size, allowing enough material to dip into the tray’s water. The mat should cover the platform entirely and extend down into the water to create effective wicking.

4. Soak the Matting

Initial soaking is crucial. Saturate the capillary matting completely and fill the tray with water. This kickstarts the wicking action.

5. Place Your Seedlings

Position your plant pots onto the soaked matting. Ensure your pots have drainage holes at the bottom—this is essential for the wicking action to work effectively.

Why Capillary Matting Works

The secret behind capillary matting is its ability to draw water upwards. This action happens through tiny pores in the matting, transferring moisture to your pots through their drainage holes. The compost or potting mix then absorbs the water, keeping seedlings perfectly hydrated without constant monitoring.

Handy Tips for Maintaining Your Capillary Bed

• Regularly Rotate Pots: Slightly turn your pots every few days. This prevents roots from growing too deeply into the matting and encourages healthier, robust root systems.
• Monitor Moisture Levels: Occasionally check if the matting needs re-soaking, particularly on warm, sunny days.
• Reuse and Recycle: Quality capillary matting can be cleaned, dried, and reused over multiple seasons, making this a sustainable gardening choice.

Final Thoughts

This watering method significantly eases greenhouse management during the busy seed-starting season. Initially skeptical myself, I’ve seen incredible results year after year, with seedlings flourishing effortlessly. Give this simple but powerful system a try—you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it!

For a detailed walkthrough and visual guidance, watch my video.