It’s a well-known fact that plants need water to survive. Yet, some clients wonder why our beautiful plants have dry soil on top, even after our professional technicians water them. The secret lies hidden below: sub-irrigation.
Greens ‘N Things horticulturists use an array of sub-irrigation systems, depending on plant variety and the container design. It involves a few clever gadgets, yet produces a bounty of benefits. Read on as we reveal the mysteries of sub-irrigated plants.
How does sub-irrigation work?
Sub-irrigated systems rely on a reservoir to hold water below the plant. Water from that holding area draws up into the soil, using a specialized wick or absorbent material. Water continues to move upward through the soil by capillary action, the same way a paper towel dipped into a glass will absorb water. Because of this gravity-defying action, sub-irrigated plants will have dry soil at the top, while the roots enjoy a long, steady drink from the reservoir below.
What is a Variegated Plant?
by T. E. Bonstrom
“…sub-irrigated plants will have dry soil at the top, while the roots enjoy a long, steady drink from the reservoir below.”
Why use sub-irrigation?
We prefer sub-irrigation, instead of top-watering, for its numerous advantages:
Top-watering (and thus wet soil) creates a breeding ground for gnats, fungus, and other problems associated with the plant’s environment.
Water and vital nutrients in top-watered plants drain out the bottom holes; an unnecessary waste.
Sub-irrigated plants experience less stress due to its root-ball staying hydrated longer.
Fertilizer absorbs consistently from the sub-irrigation reservoir, so less is required.
Sub-irrigation reduces the frequency of watering, decreasing the amount of water used over time.
Plants in sub-irrigated systems have longer, healthier lives, requiring fewer replacements.
The team at Greens ‘N Things has countless sub-irrigation options to fit every office and home aesthetic. Using sub-irrigated plants at our accounts, our technicians make fewer trips, lowering our fossil fuel use--an environmental win for everyone. An easy way to have sub-irrigated plants in your home or office is to contact us; we’ll install and maintain them, hassle-free.
So, there it is—our secret weapon is no longer a mystery. Next time you see a plant we service with dry soil on top, you’ll know what's really going on below the pretty plant exterior—sub-irrigation!
