How To Make A Self-Watering Moss Pole: A Step-By-Step Guide

A self-watering moss pole is a handy and innovative solution for plant enthusiasts who want to grow climbing plants or vining plants. It is a great way to provide support for the plant to grow and, at the same time, ensure that it receives the necessary moisture.

Additionally, the moss on the pole acts as a natural water reservoir, ensuring that your plants stay hydrated even if you forget to water them for a few days.

In this article, we will discuss what a self-watering moss pole is, its benefits, the materials required, and step-by-step instructions on how to water moss pole.

Let's get started to discuss How to Make A Self-Watering Moss Pole

Explanation of a Self-Watering Moss Pole

A self-watering moss pole is a type of plant support system that allows the plant to draw water as needed.

The pole comprises a hollow tube containing water, and the moss acts as a wick that draws water up to the plant's roots. As the plant grows, it will wrap its tendrils around the pole, giving it the support it needs to climb.

Benefits of Using a Self-Watering Moss Pole.

A self-watering moss pole is important for several reasons. Firstly, it provides a consistent source of moisture for climbing or vining plants, which is crucial for their healthy growth.

This is especially important for plants that require high humidity levels, such as tropical plants, as the moss wick can help maintain moisture levels around the plant. Secondly, a self-watering moss pole provides support for the plant to grow vertically.

This is particularly useful for plants with weak stems and needing additional support to climb or vines to cling to, such as Monstera deliciosa or Philodendron scandens. Lastly, a self-watering moss pole helps prevent root rot by ensuring the plant is not sitting in overly damp soil.

The water reservoir at the base of the pole allows the plant to draw water as needed, and excess water can drain away, preventing the roots from becoming soggy and potentially rotting. 

How do self-watering pots work? 

How to Make a Self-Watering Moss Pole.

Moss poles are great for supporting climbing plants with aerial roots that attach themselves to vertical surfaces. These poles provide a textured surface for the plants to attach to and grow up while also serving as a water source for the plants. This step-by-step guide will show you how to make your own self-watering moss pole.

Materials Needed

To make a DIY self watering moss pole, you will need the following materials:

• PVC pipe (1/2” or larger diameter)
• PVC pipe cap
• Mesh covering (optional)
• PVC pipe cutters
• Macrame cord
• Sphagnum moss, soaked in filtered water.

Step 1

Make sure the PVC pipe is the right length: Start by cutting the PVC pipe to your desired length using PVC pipe moss pole cutters. If you have larger plants, we recommend using a 2” PVC pipe or wider for better stability and to reserve more water. Additionally, keep in mind that you will need an extra three to six inches on top of the desired height to stabilize the pole in the potting soil.

Step 2

Put a cap on the end of the PVC pipe: Place the cap on one end of the freshly cut PVC pipe. This end will be buried in potting soil.

Step 3

Drop the cord in the middle of the pipe: Take one end of your macramé rope/cord and drop it into the PVC pipe, pushing it down until it reaches the bottom.

The function of this cord is to facilitate the transfer of water from the reservoir in the PVC pipe to the sphagnum moss, thereby maintaining its moisture level.

Step 4

Put moss on the pipe and secure it with a cord: Begin padding the bottom of the PVC pipe with sphagnum moss soaked in filtered water, squeezing out excess water before placing.

Hold the cord in place and begin wrapping it around the PVC pipe until you reach the bottom. Use the rope to secure the damp moss in its position firmly.

Wrap the wet moss once and then repeat this step over and over, working your way upward and finally to the top. Once you reach the top, secure everything with a fishing line or tie a knot with the cord to hold it in place.

Step 5

Ensure that the Moss Pole is correctly inserted into the hole: To ensure the stability of the climbing plant, it's advisable to insert the pole a few inches into the potting soil, considering the plant's size.

Enlarge the hole by approximately an inch more than the diameter of the moss pole, and then insert the capped end of the pole into the hole. Add additional sphagnum moss to the base of the pole for padding.

This will help the wicking system pull water into the soil towards the plant roots and vice versa. Cover with more indoor plant soil and press down firmly. Using a wooden dowel to support the pole is a preferred method for some individuals.

Step 6

Wrap your vines around your moss pole:: Wrap the plants around the moss pole and secure plant ties if heavy. Your mini monstera adansonii will rest comfortably on the moist moss pole. It may not put out any aerial roots yet, but it will grow a few new larger leaves.

Step 7

Reservoir: Fill with water: After your moss pole is securely in place and your plant is wrapped around it, it's time to fill the reservoir with water. The cord you placed inside the PVC pipe will transfer the water from the reservoir to the sphagnum moss, providing a constant source of moisture for your climbing plant.

Once the reservoir is filled with water, your self-watering moss pole is complete. All you need to do now is maintain it by periodically adding water to the reservoir and monitoring your plant's growth. Your climbing plant will thrive on its new moss pole support with proper care.

Best Plants for Growing on a Moss Pole

Before we start, it is important to note that not all plants are suitable for growing on moss poles. Climbing plants with small aerial roots on their vines or stems that cling onto vertical surfaces as the plant grows is the best for moss poles.

Some popular vines that do well on moss poles include Ivy, philodendron, and pothos. Monstera plants are also good candidates for a moss pole but require a sturdier and taller moss pole to support their large leaves.

Self Watering Pots Pros and Cons

Suppose you want to ensure that your plants receive a consistent water supply without monitoring and watering them yourself. In that case, a self-watering planter constantly is the perfect solution.

These planters feature a reservoir that holds water, which is slowly released to the plant as needed. This means that your plants will never go without water or become overwatered.

At Planterhoma, you can find a wide selection of high-quality self-watering planters in various sizes and styles to suit your needs and preferences.

How to Maintain the Moss Pole.

Once you have made your self-watering moss pole, it's important to maintain it properly to ensure the health of your climbing plants. Here are some tips for maintaining your moss pole:

Water the reservoir regularly: The reservoir in your moss pole needs to be filled regularly to keep the sphagnum moss moist. Check the moisture level of the moss regularly and fill the reservoir with water as needed.

Check for mold or mildew: Moss poles can sometimes develop mold or mildew on the surface of the sphagnum moss. If you notice any mold or mildew, remove the affected area and replace it with fresh moss. 

Trim any dead or yellowing leaves: Climbing plants sometimes have dead or yellowing leaves. These should be trimmed off to promote healthy growth and prevent disease.

Rotate your plants: As your climbing plants grow, they may lean towards one side of the moss pole. To prevent this, rotate the plant occasionally to encourage even growth.

Repot your plants as needed: If your climbing plant outgrows its pot, it may need to be repotted. When repotting, make sure to transfer the moss pole along with the plant to the new pot.

By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your self-watering moss pole healthy and thriving and enjoy the beautiful growth of your climbing plants.

Summary

If You're Afraid of how to make a self-watering moss pole, the good news is that it's a relatively simple process that can be completed in just a few steps. You can create a beautiful and functional piece of art for your home with the right supplies, patience, and creativity.

Not only will a self-watering moss pole add natural beauty to your space, but it will also provide the convenience of easy watering.

FAQs

1. Do Self-Watering Moss Poles Work?

Yes, self-watering moss poles work. Self-watering moss poles are an effective and easy way to take care of plants. They allow for consistent moisture levels, as the moss absorbs and holds water, which helps keep the plant's roots healthy.

The moss also provides a layer of insulation, helping to keep the soil from drying out quickly and keeping the roots from getting too hot.

2. What Can I Use if I Don't Have a Moss Pole?

You can use a bamboo stick, wooden dowel, or coir poles if you don't have a moss pole.

3. Is It Cheaper to Make Your Own Moss Pole?

Yes, making your moss pole is usually cheaper than buying one. This is because the materials needed to make a moss pole are usually cheaper than a pre-made one. Additionally, you can customize your moss pole to fit your specific needs, making it more cost-effective.