What to Grow in a Wicking Pot: 7 Easy Houseplants That Thrive in Constant Moisture
The best beginner-friendly plants for self-watering setups (including aquarium-mounted planters).
If you're using a wicking pot, you’re already one step closer to stress-free plant care. Whether you're growing in a freestanding self-watering vessel or a Mossari planter mounted to your freshwater aquarium, the secret to success is simple: choose the right plants.
Some houseplants love consistently moist roots. Others… not so much. In this guide, we’re spotlighting 7 houseplants that thrive in high-humidity, always-damp environments — and are perfect for wicking pots.
🪴 1. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
A classic for a reason. Pothos are forgiving, fast-growing, and adaptable. In a wicking pot, their trailing vines flourish while the roots happily soak up steady moisture.
Why it works:
- Tolerates constantly moist soil
- Fast growth = satisfying results
- Visually striking as it cascades from your planter
🌿 2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Known for its lush leaves and white blooms, the peace lily craves humidity and damp roots. It’s practically built for wicking systems.
Why it works:
- Signals thirst by drooping — then perks up after a drink
- Thrives in medium to low light
- Absorbs aquarium nutrients beautifully
🌱 3. Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia obtusifolia)
While many peperomias prefer dry-ish soil, this thick-leaved version handles moisture surprisingly well. It grows compact and glossy — a great fit for smaller Mossari planters.
Why it works:
- Naturally compact, great for rimless setups
- Thrives in indirect light
- Doesn’t mind a steady drink when in PETG planters with good airflow
🌾 4. Calathea (Goeppertia spp.)
Calatheas are notoriously picky — but they shine in high-humidity environments with consistent moisture. A wicking pot helps eliminate the risk of underwatering, which is what usually causes them to crisp up.
Why it works:
- Wicking setup keeps roots consistently hydrated
- Loves humidity — which aquariums help provide
- Striking foliage = instant visual impact
🪻 5. Orchids (Phalaenopsis)
Yes, orchids — when paired with the right substrate. In a Mossari Orchid Planter with chunky coco coir, orchids can thrive off wick-fed hydration without getting soggy roots.
Why it works:
- Wicks provide humidity around the roots, not just in the soil
- Coco coir allows airflow
- Perfect for rimless aquariums with light overhead
🌾 6. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants love consistent moisture and grow quickly in wicking setups. Plus, they produce baby plantlets you can propagate endlessly.
Why it works:
- Thrives in warm, moist environments
- Easy to grow, hard to kill
- Great for creating a cascading, jungle look
🌱 7. Ferns (like Boston or Maidenhair)
Ferns are the poster children for humidity lovers. They’re notoriously difficult in traditional pots but thrive in wicking systems where the soil stays moist and the air stays damp — especially near your aquarium.
Why it works:
- Roots hate drying out
- High humidity from the aquarium is a huge bonus
- Delicate texture balances bold-leaved plants
💧 Tips for Growing in a Wicking Pot
- Use a moisture-retaining, airy substrate — avoid dense soils that compact over time.
- Make sure your wick stays fully in contact with water and substrate.
- Place your plant where it gets bright, indirect light for best results.
- Avoid succulents, cacti, or any plant that prefers dry feet.
🌿 Final Thoughts
Wicking planters aren’t just convenient — they’re smarter, cleaner, and often healthier for your plants. By choosing species that naturally thrive in constant moisture, you’re setting yourself up for low-maintenance success.
Ready to build your own self-sustaining jungle?
Explore our collection of Mossari aquarium-mounted planters here.