How Self-Watering Wicking Pots Work (And Why They're Better for Your Plants)

How Self-Watering Wicking Pots Work (And Why They're Better for Your Plants)

You love your plants. But your schedule? Not so much. Enter: self-watering wicking pots—Mossari’s signature system that keeps your plants perfectly hydrated using science, sustainability, and a little weirdness.

🌱 What Is a Wicking Pot?

A wicking pot is a type of self-watering planter that uses a wick (typically made of fabric or string) to pull water upward from a reservoir into the plant’s soil. Think of it like a plant sipping water through a straw—only it’s always just the right amount.

At Mossari, we’ve taken this simple concept and leveled it up by designing 3D-printed wicking pots that mount directly onto freshwater aquariums. That means your plant stays watered by aquarium water, which is full of natural nutrients and beneficial microorganisms. Bonus: no more guilt for skipping a watering day.

💧 How Wicking Pots Work (The Science, Simplified)

Here’s the breakdown:

  1. Water Reservoir – In our case, that’s your aquarium.

  2. Wick – A fabric strand connects the bottom of your pot to the water below.

  3. Capillary Action – Water naturally travels up the wick and into the soil.

  4. Moisture Regulation – The plant only pulls what it needs, when it needs it.

No pumps. No batteries. Just physics.

🪴 Why Wicking Pots Are Better Than Traditional Planters

Let’s be real: most planters are needy. Mossari’s wicking system is designed to simplify plant care without compromising on design.

✅ Consistent Moisture

Say goodbye to overwatering, underwatering, or “did-I-water-this-yesterday?” anxiety.

✅ Healthier Roots

Wicking delivers steady hydration from below, which encourages deep root growth and reduces the risk of root rot.

✅ Less Maintenance

Perfect for travelers, forgetful waterers, and plant parents with too much on their plate.

✅ Eco-Friendly

No wasted water. No plastic watering globes. Just clean, passive hydration—powered by your aquarium.

🐠 Why Aquarium Water? It’s a Nutrient Goldmine

Fish waste turns into plant food. It’s the basic principle behind aquaponics, and it’s why Mossari’s aquarium-mounted pots help plants thrive.

Your plant gets a constant drip of nutrient-rich water. Your aquarium gets a touch of jungle. It's the most elegant little ecosystem you’ll ever own.

💡 Want to Try One?

Our 3D-printed wicking pots are designed to mount on most freshwater aquariums. No tools. No hassle. Just drop in the wick, pop the bracket on your tank, and plant something beautiful.

👉 Shop Wicking Pots
👉 Watch How It Works 

📌 TL;DR

  • Wicking pots use capillary action to self-water from below.

  • Mossari pots draw water from your aquarium—zero-maintenance and full of nutrients.

  • Your plant stays healthy, hydrated, and thriving—even when life gets chaotic.


Next up:
Want to know which plants love a wicking setup? Stay tuned for our next post:
👉 “What to Grow in a Wicking Pot: 7 Easy Houseplants That Thrive in Constant Moisture”

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