Common Questions

How often do I water with WicR? WicR typically extends your time between watering by 7-10 days, depending on your specific plant and its size. We recommend initially monitoring the soil moisture to determine the ideal watering schedule for your plants.

Can the WicR insert be used for outdoor plants? Yes. The WicR insert is designed for both indoor and outdoor use. It provides reliable hydration for outdoor plants, helping them to thrive in high temperature conditions and enabling the use of irrigation without the concern of waterlogging the soil.

Are other sizes in development? Yes, we're aiming to offer a range of diameters to suit various pot sizes, both larger and smaller. Keep in mind that our existing WicR sizes are versatile; a smaller WicR can be used in a larger-based pot (e.g., a 6 1/2" WicR in an 8" pot). We're also looking into versions with increased reservoir capacity and even pots with the wicking reservoir built in. What sizes are on your wish list?

Why use a hollow core wick? A hollow core wick is designed to improve water wicking efficiency. The hollow center creates more surface area for water to travel upwards, through capillary action, allowing for a more consistent and faster delivery of moisture to the soil compared to a solid wick of the same diameter. While primarily designed for efficient upward wicking to hydrate your plants, the hollow core also allows for downward water movement to help fill the reservoir.

Are wicking systems good for all plants? While wicking devices can be beneficial for many types of plants, they aren't ideal for all of them. Plants that prefer consistently moist soil generally thrive with wicking. However, plants that need periods of dryness between waterings, like many succulents and cacti, might not do as well. 

Can I use fertilizer with WicR?  Yes, but if you use the same concentration of fertilizer as with traditional watering, salts and minerals can build up in the soil over time because there isn't the same level of flushing action as when you water from the top until water drains out the bottom. Start lower and observe: It's always safer to start with the lower concentration (1/4 strength) and observe your plants for any signs of nutrient deficiency (e.g., yellowing leaves, stunted growth). If your plants seem healthy, you can potentially increase the concentration slightly to 1/2 strength if needed.

Can WicR be used in a container without drainage holes? Yes, it's suitable for containers without drainage. However, careful monitoring of soil moisture is important to establish the correct watering schedule. It’s critical to avoid collecting water, outside of the reservoir, that can lead to root rot. Raising the WicR reservoir with a bed of small stones underneath will additionally protect the roots if the reservoir overflows. 

What if my wicks are too short for my pot/plants? Don’t worry, they will work. The WicR insert’s effectiveness comes from the wicks themselves, as the key watering action happens at the lower level. Given that the wicking action draws water up to approximately 8 inches, the provided 10 inch wicks eliminate the need for longer alternatives to enhance watering. For overly tall pots, toothpicks can help secure the wicks directly to the root ball.

Is WicR safe for food plants? The WicR reservoir is manufactured using food-grade plastics and is safe for use in growing food-producing plants.

Where is WicR Made? WicR is proudly manufactured in the USA.