🌿 Wick Watering Method: How to Keep Plants Alive While You’re Away
Leaving town for a few days? Worried your monstera might riot in your absence? I’ve been there. The Wick Watering Method changed the game for me — and it’s about to change it for you, too. This easy, low-maintenance hack keeps your plants perfectly hydrated, whether you’re sipping cocktails on the beach or just too busy to remember a watering can.
🧵 What Is the Wick Watering Method?
Let’s break it down. The wick watering method is exactly what it sounds like — a wick (usually cotton or nylon) that draws water from a reservoir directly into the soil. It’s like a personal hydration line for your plant. Genius.
Even better? It mimics natural capillary action — the same way tree roots pull water from the ground. So instead of flooding the soil, it offers a slow and steady drink. We’re talking smart, simple, and effective. No batteries, no timers, no complaints.
🪴 What You’ll Need
Setting this up is easier than convincing your friend not to overwater your aloe. All you need are a few household items:
A cotton or nylon cord (shoelaces, yarn, or macrame string work great)
A jar or bottle of water
A plant pot with good drainage
A little bit of trust in science
Also, avoid synthetic fibers coated in plastic — they don’t absorb water well. Instead, choose something absorbent and flexible.
🌿 Wick Watering Method: Step-by-Step Visual Guide
The wick watering method is a plant lifesaver — especially when you’re away or just forgetful. Below is a clear visual demonstration of how it works, showing exactly how to set up your wick, water jar, and plant.
🧠 Important:
This video includes a product promo near the end. But you don’t need any fancy kits to make this work! I’ll show you my personal setup and favorite materials right after the video.
👇 Watch the Wick Watering Method in action:
💧 How to Set It Up
Let’s do this step-by-step:
Step 1: Prepare the Wick
Cut a piece of your cord long enough to reach from the bottom of the plant’s soil to the bottom of your water container. No guessing — you want the full journey covered.
Step 2: Insert the Wick
Poke the wick a few inches into the soil near the base of the plant. Make sure it’s buried deep enough to stay in place and close to the roots. That’s where the magic happens.
Step 3: Place the Water Jar
Fill your jar or container with water and set it next to — or below — the plant. Place the other end of the wick into the jar, making sure it reaches the bottom.
As a result, water will begin to slowly travel up the wick and into the soil. It’s like cruise control for hydration.
✈️ Why It’s Perfect for Travel (and Lazy Weekends)
The wick watering method shines when you’re away. It provides consistent moisture without overwatering. Plus, it keeps the moisture right at the root level — exactly where it’s needed most. Whether you’re on vacation or just forgetful, your plants won’t suffer.
Unlike top-down watering, this method avoids moldy leaves, dry edges, and root rot. It’s clean, quiet, and ridiculously effective.
Also, you’ll save time and water — a win-win for plant parents everywhere.
🧠 Bonus Tips for Best Results
Use multiple wicks for large pots
Choose a container that won’t tip easily
Keep it shaded to avoid algae growth
Trim the wick ends to avoid clogging
Once you’ve tried it, you’ll never look at plant watering the same way again. Trust me — this is one of those “why didn’t I do this sooner?” moments.
🌱 Final Thoughts from Dean
I’ve tested dozens of tricks over the years, but the wick watering method? It’s one of my absolute go-to solutions — especially when I step away from the plant shelf. It’s low-effort, high-reward, and a must-have in your plant care toolbox.
Because if you’re serious about keeping your plants alive while living your life, this is your move.
💬 Got a wick tip of your own?
Let me know in the comments or tag @DeansQualityPlants on Pinterest!
Comments On The Wick Watering Method
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6 thoughts on “Wick Watering Method: Keep Your Plants Alive While You’re Away”
Okay, can we just crown the Wick Watering Method as the MVP of plant hacks already? This post makes the setup feel like a breeze—no gadgets, no apps, just a string and some trust in gravity. I love how Dean keeps it fun and practical, with a step-by-step walkthrough that even the most forgetful plant parent can nail. The tip about using natural fibers is key, and the travel-friendly vibes make this a game-changer for vacations and lazy weekends. The visuals really help seal the deal, too.
Bonus wick tip: Use an old cotton shoelace dipped in water for 30 minutes before setup. Pre-soaking helps the wick start working faster and reduces that awkward “is this even doing anything?” phase.
Whether you’re keeping your monstera alive or just tired of overwatering your poor succulents, this guide’s a winner. Honestly, your plants will probably miss you less with this trick in place.
What a wonderful comment, Christine. Thank you.
I agree. I wish I knew about this issue a long time ago. Different plants need seperate plans, but the same principle applies
Indoor plants can do a lot to bring a lot of change to any indoor living space. I was once an interior designer working with plants in a five-star hotel. It is good to know that a system you are presenting can help plants to stay alive, not only when you go on vacation, but also for those who have a busy life. Thanks for sharing this amazing watering system.
Sounds like a wonderful job, Norman. You’re taking care of all those wonderful plants in a five-star hotel. I’ve seen folks doing that, both in hotels and at the airport. Thanks for the comment
Wick watering is such a clever and underrated method for keeping plants healthy, especially for those of us who travel or just forget to water regularly. I’ve used this technique for my peace lilies and pothos, and it’s been a game-changer. One thing I’ve noticed is that the type of wick material really matters. Cotton shoelaces worked better than synthetic yarn in my case. I’m curious, though, how does the method hold up for plants that prefer drier soil, like succulents or herbs like rosemary? Do you recommend modifying the setup for those?
Thanks so much, Slavisa — you nailed it! Wick watering really is underrated, and it’s awesome to hear it’s worked well for your peace lilies and pothos.
You’re absolutely right about the wick material — cotton shoelaces are a classic go-to, and we’ve found that natural fibers tend to give better, more consistent flow than synthetics. Great tip!
As for succulents and herbs, like rosemary — that’s a great question. These plants do prefer drier conditions, so here’s what we recommend:
Use a thinner wick or less absorbent material (like hemp twine).
Keep the reservoir lower than the pot to reduce water flow.
And always test the setup for a day or two to dial it in just right.
Basically, a modified wick system can still work — it just needs to deliver water slowly enough to avoid soggy roots. Thanks again for the great input — you’re helping make this a smarter community.