Growing Food
15 minutes
Latin America
Make a self-watering planter from a bottle
Why this matters
A self-watering planter keeps roots steadily moist, so plants survive even if you miss a day. It is made from a plastic bottle you would otherwise throw away.
What you need
A large plastic bottle, a piece of cloth or string, soil, and a seedling.
These are everyday items. If you don’t have one, look for the closest alternative — the steps will tell you what to use instead.
How to do it
Follow these steps in order. Take your time. You’ve got this.
Cut the bottle in two, then invert the top half like a funnel into the bottom half.
Thread a strip of cloth through the neck to act as a wick that draws water up to the soil.
Fill the top with soil and a plant, pour water into the bottom, and top it up as it empties.
Your one thing today
Find a large plastic bottle today and cut it in two to build your first self-watering planter.
Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Do this one thing now, even if it’s small.
Come back tomorrow
A new skill will be waiting for you tomorrow. Or if you’d like to keep learning today, explore the full library.