Best Self Watering Planters [Buying Guide]

Watering your plants in your garden can be a big chore, so why not make it easier?

Since the invention of the wheeled garden planter, there have been many innovations in the world of container gardening. However, the humble self-watering planter remains a constant.

The self-watering planter box is the perfect solution, and it will help you grow more food, in smaller spaces, while saving you time and money.

You can’t rely on a hose like other gardeners, and you can’t rely on a hose to water at all hours of the day. But with a self-watering pot, you can water when it’s convenient for you and your plants.

Check out these self-watering planters that made our list and see our guide to finding the perfect smart design planter.

Best Self Watering Planters

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ImageProductFeaturesPrice
GREEN THUMB
Self-Watering Elevated Planter Box
Self-Watering Elevated Planter Box
  • 48 x 24 x 29 inches
  • 35 gallons
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BEST CHOICE
Glowpear Self-Watering Urban Garden Planter
Glowpear Self-Watering Urban Garden Planter
  • 18.9 x 29.5 x 19.7 inches
  • 16 gallons
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BEST VALUE
Keter Urban Bloomer 12.7 Gallon Raised Garden Bed with Self Watering Planter Box
Keter Urban Bloomer 12.7 Gallon Raised Garden Bed with Self Watering Planter Box
  • 32.3 x 14.7 x 30.7 inches
  • 12.7 gallons
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EASE OF USE
CedarCraft Self-Watering Elevated Spruce Planter
CedarCraft Self-Watering Elevated Spruce Planter
  • 21 x 47 x 32 inches
  • 6 gallons
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BUDGET OPTION
Self-Watering+ Self-Aerating + High Drainage + Ventilated Deep Reservoir Modern Round Planter
Self-Watering+ Self-Aerating + High Drainage + Ventilated Deep Reservoir Modern Round Planter
  • 12 x 12 x 12.5 inches
  • 3.6 gallons
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BEGINNERS CHOICE
Self Watering + Aerating + High Drain Deep Saucer Round Planter Pot
Self Watering + Aerating + High Drain Deep Saucer Round Planter Pot
  • 17 x 12 x 12.5 inches
  • 1 gallons
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SIMPLE DESIGN
DecoPots - 11.2
DecoPots – 11.2″ Self Watering Planter
  • 11.2 x 11.2 x 10 inches
  • 3 gallons
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ELEGANT DESIGN
Outsunny 4-Piece Plastic Raised Garden Bed Planter Box with Self-Watering Design
Outsunny 4-Piece Plastic Raised Garden Bed Planter Box with Self-Watering Design
  • 15.75 x 31.5 x 17.25 inches
  • 6.8 gallons
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The Best Self-Watering Planter Box Review

Plants are a great addition to the house, but sometimes, you may not have time to water them regularly due to your busy schedule. A self-watering planter may be the best solution to that problem.

Not all container products are created equal, and it’s best to look around and see their features to find the best product that will fit your needs and budget.

Please read the reviews in the following section and check out each type of self-watering planter’s features and pros and cons. 

GREEN THUMB
1 | Self-Watering Elevated Planter Box

1 | Self-Watering Elevated Planter Box

  • Product Dimensions: 48 x 24 x 29 inches
  • Amount of potting mix: 35 gallons

The Self-Watering Elevated Planter Box features a series of innovative and connected reservoirs that can deliver water on demand to the plant roots.

It has a no-bend garden box design with large 5-gallon water reservoirs that will ensure enough water supply for an extended period between watering and keep an even supply of moisture throughout the bed. 

It’s made from untreated cedar or cypress that is naturally rot-resistant and great for organic vegetables. It can hold 14 quarts (13.25 l) of potting mix, and its rigid aluminum leg can withstand the additional weight. 

PROS

  • It eases knee and back strain because the waist-high box does not need too much bending
  • It has two self-watering reservoirs, and its sturdy aluminum legs can last for many years 
  • It has an easy-fill tube with a water-level indicator for ease of use. No more guesswork because you will know the water level right away. 

CONS

  • Assembly is required
  • It takes a lot of time to assemble 
  • Some parts warped and won’t fit

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: Self-Watering Elevated Planter Box


BEST CHOICE
2 | Glowpear Self-Watering Urban Garden Planter

2 | Glowpear Self-Watering Urban Garden Planter

  •  Product Dimensions: 18.9 x 29.5 x 19.7 inches
  • Amount of potting mix: 16 gallons

The Glowpear Self-Watering Urban Garden Planter has an integrated self-watering system that lets any type of plant take the water they need. It has an innovative water level indicator that enables you to see if the planter needs a water refill. 

You can use it outdoors and indoors without the fear of water spills because of its clip-on drip tray. It is an ideal size that also has raised design which makes it very accessible, and no bending is required. 

It can withstand ultraviolet rays and corrosion resistance due to its injection-molded HDPE.

PROS

  • The self-watering feature can hold a lot of water and sturdy, safe and scalable
  • Multiple glow pear units can be combined, integrated, and plugged into each other to accommodate more plants
  • It easy to assemble and has a water-level indicator for ease of use. 

CONS

  • Sometimes the water indicator does not work
  • There are cases where the green overflow bins get detached from the central unit
  • It may develop leaks after a few months of use

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: Glowpear Self-Watering Urban Garden Planter


BEST VALUE
3 | Keter Urban Bloomer 12.7 Gallon Raised Garden Bed with Self Watering Planter Box

3 | Keter Urban Bloomer 12.7 Gallon Raised Garden Bed with Self Watering Planter Box

  • Product Dimensions: 32.3 x 14.7 x 30.7 inches
  • Amount of potting mix: 12.7 gallons

The Keter Urban Bloomer 12.7 Gallon Raised Garden Bed with Self Watering Planter Box features a complete control drainage system that can be closed or opened to control watering. It also has an easy-to-read water gauge to see how much water is left.

It has a large water reservoir that can help prevent over-watering and root decay. It’s perfect for urban living and used as a balcony planter or a mini herb garden to keep plants healthy. 

PROS

  • Setting up is a breeze, especially with easy-to-follow instructions for easy assembly.
  • It is easy to use and very convenient for busy gardeners, and the drain spouts are a great feature
  • It has good quality and sturdy

CONS

  • Sometimes the water indicator does not rise 
  • water pours out of the bottom for no apparent reason
  • Some parts of the bin break easily and have cracks

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: Keter Urban Bloomer 12.7 Gallon Raised Garden Bed with Self Watering Planter Box


EASE OF USE
4 | CedarCraft Self-Watering Elevated Spruce Planter

4 | CedarCraft Self-Watering Elevated Spruce Planter

  • Product Dimensions: 21 x 47 x 32 inches
  • Amount of potting mix: 6 gallons

CedarCraft Self-Watering Elevated Spruce Planter features a time-saving 6-gallon self-watering irrigation system that can provide extra water when you need it. It has a suitable elevated design, so you don’t need to bend, reducing back and knee strain.

It is made from sustainably sourced Canadian spruce. 

It also has Aluminum coated and rust-proofed legs for more protection from rust and scratches. It Helps delivers healthier yields and more productive plants.

PROS

  • Setting up is a breeze, especially with easy-to-follow instructions for easy assembly.
  • It is easy to use and very convenient for busy gardeners, and the drain spouts are a great feature
  • It has wheels so you can move it around with ease

CONS

  • Durability needs more improvement; it will not last outdoors for a long time
  • It is a little overpriced for its build quality, and you can find better products for the same price
  • The water level indicator does not work, and some screws are hard to place

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: CedarCraft Self-Watering Elevated Spruce Planter


BUDGET OPTION
5 | Self-Watering+ Self-Aerating + High Drainage + Ventilated Deep Reservoir Modern Round Planter

5 | Self-Watering+ Self-Aerating + High Drainage + Ventilated Deep Reservoir Modern Round Planter

  • Product Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 12.5 inches
  • Amount of potting mix: 3.6 gallons

Self-Watering Ventilated Deep Reservoir Modern Round Planter is a self-aerating, high drainage which minimizes molds, rots, and fungus.

It has integrated large open slots on the bottom that can improve the circulation of the soil as a drainage plug.

It has a large 3.6 gallons (13.63 l) of water reservoir capable of supplying watering requirements for 2-weeks. Its integrated auto watering system is integrated into the body for an easy, worry-free watering that fits your busy life and schedule.  

PROS

  • Easy to refill since it has clip-on watering attachments
  • It has caster wheels so you can move it around with ease
  • It’s made from UV-protected plastics, which makes it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. 

CONS

  • It is a little overpriced for its basic design. You can find better products for the same price
  • It looks flimsy and looks like it has been made of cheap plastic
  • The bottom becomes warp over time

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: Self-Watering Ventilated Deep Reservoir Modern Round Planter


BEGINNERS CHOICE
6 | Self Watering + Aerating + High Drain Deep Saucer Round Planter Pot

6 | Self Watering + Aerating + High Drain Deep Saucer Round Planter Pot

  • Product Dimensions: 17 x 12 x 12.5 inches
  • Amount of potting mix: 1 gallons

Self Watering High Drain Deep Saucer Round Planter Pot has an integrated deep reservoir dish designed with studs that lift the planter away from the floor. Its raised beds make it impossible for your plant to be waterlogged to prevent root rot.

It can hold at least one gallon of water enough to supply your plant with water for two weeks. 

PROS

  • It’s made from BPA-free and ultraviolet light resistant plastics, making it ideal for indoor and outdoor use. 
  • Self aerating and high drainage
  • It has caster wheels so you can move it around with ease

CONS

  • Made from cheap plastics
  • Too Pricey for its small size 
  • It does not have good drainage and is not self-watering as advertised

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: Self Watering High Drain Deep Saucer Round Planter Pot


SIMPLE DESIGN
7 | DecoPots - 11.2

7 | DecoPots – 11.2″ Self Watering Planter

  • Product Dimensions: 11.2 x 11.2 x 10 inches
  • Amount of potting mix: 3 gallons

DecoPots – 11.2″ Self Watering Planter has 3 gallons (11.36 l) of water capacity that ensures enough water supply to your plants. It’s very portable; with its 10 inches (25.4 cm) height and 11 inches (27.94 cm) diameter, it can fit most indoor and outdoor areas. 

It allows optimal circulation for fast growth. It is excellent as an ornamental and indoor gardening with its lovely color and beautiful design. 

PROS

  • It is decorative and functional at the same time
  • Its small size is a space saver. You can put it in a small table
  • It is BPA free and water does not stagnate

CONS

  • It is made of thin plastic that is not sturdy
  • The water level indicator is difficult to see

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: DecoPots – 11.2” Self Watering Planter


ELEGANT DESIGN
8 | Outsunny 4-Piece Plastic Raised Garden Bed Planter Box with Self-Watering Design

8 | Outsunny 4-Piece Plastic Raised Garden Bed Planter Box with Self-Watering Design

  • Product Dimensions: 15.75 x 31.5 x 17.25 inches
  • Amount of potting mix: 6.8 gallons

The Outsunny 4-Piece Plastic Raised Garden Bed Planter Box with Self-Watering Design has an ideal height, so you don’t have to bend or lean over when gardening.

It is made from high-quality reinforced PP materials that do not deteriorate with the weather. It also features a self-watering disk and drainage holes which can provide good drainage. 

It’s lightweight to transport or move around and fit in areas with limited space. 

PROS

  • Its elevated design reduces back and knee pain caused by bending. 
  • Easy to assemble, and the parts fit well
  • It has a self-watering design

CONS

  • Boxes are much smaller than expected
  • It is not sturdy 
  • Legs are a little wobbly, and top-end caps don’t stay

CHECK CURRENT PRICE: Outsunny 4-Piece Plastic Raised Garden Bed Planter Box with Self-Watering Design


What are Self-Watering Planters?

Self-watering planters are specially designed pots with a water reservoir that can provide a constant water supply for outdoor and indoor plants.

They have a watering mechanism that allows them to draw water from their built-in water container to water and keep them hydrated.

They are constructed from durable plastic materials designed with various sizes, from small to larger plants. Some self-watering planters have a modular design wherein you can assemble several units to form a larger planter box.

They come with different attractive color that looks great in your indoor garden. You can place fresh herbs, flower beds, and a wide variety of edible plants. 

Benefits of Self-Watering Planters

To ensure healthy plant growth, it needs basic care such, water, fertilizers, sunlight, and occasional weeding. However, sometimes due to your busy schedule, there are times when you forget to water your plants.

Self-watering planters are a convenient and easy way to ensure that your plants are provided with enough water and minimize the risk of dying from the lack of water.

These planters are suitable for both indoor and outdoor plants.

You only need to refill the reservoir after a few weeks, and you are good to go. Of course, you can also place some liquid fertilizer occasionally to make sure it has enough supply of micronutrients. 

Aside from its self-watering features, many of these planters also have plenty of other excellent features. Some have an aeration screen that can ensure good air circulation. 

self watering plants best products

Some have a water inlet port, water fill tube, and handy water level indicator that can provide you easy access to the current water level of the reservoir.

At the same time, others have built-in overflow drainage that can ensure that your plants will not become waterlogged.

There is also a variety of size options depending on your needs. There are 6-inch size planters suitable for indoor use and placed on top of your office table. There is also a medium-size 16-inch size version suitable for your patio or house corner.

Self-watering planters can also be utilized as decorative pieces in your home. They come in stylish colors that can blend well with your house color.

There are a lot of color choices available.

Self-watering planters are beneficial since they can save a lot of water since you only need to refill it with a few liters of water a week, cutting your water consumption and reducing your water bill.

Automatic Or Not | How Do They Work?

Most self-watering planters have a reservoir that can range from a 2-gallon water reservoir to bigger ones with a larger capacity to deliver water to your plants for long periods.

They are usually designed with hollow plastic water containers located at the bottom of the pot. This plastic container serves as the reservoir that catches and stores water. 

The reservoir usually has a separator that divides the reservoir from the top of the planet. It is typically a platform with holes in it or an aerator screen that the same time, provides air circulation.

The holes work as a drainage system for excess water from the soil so that the roots will not rot from too much water.

Water indicators that are fitted in some self-watering planters provide you easy access to the water level of your reservoir.

If you placed water in the reservoir, the water trapped under the separator feed supply water through capillary action or wicking. These wicking actions will provide your plants with a continuous supply of moisture. 

Self-watering planters provide much-needed moisture even in dry conditions. 

best self watering planters review

Important Reminders Before Buying a Self-watering Planter

1. Self-watering planters are made for standard vegetables and plants. So you have to research more about the specific perennial and annual plants you are planning to plant and check if it can grow on a self-watering planter. You don’t want to buy something and then end up not using them.

2. One of the most convenient self-watering planter features is to provide moisture to the plant with minimal supervision and effort. But remember that self-watering planters only work with plants that have an established root system.

It will not work if your plant only has barely a few inches deep of roots. So at the early stages of the plant’s development, you still have to monitor it regularly and provide regular watering and liquid fertilizers. 

Mature plants are suitable since their roots can already reach the separator and start to wick moisture into the plant.

3. Self-watering plants provide average moisture to your plants. But if you live in an area with extreme heat or drought conditions, you have to make sure you check it regularly if there is enough moisture in the soil.

There might not be enough capillary action from the reservoir to the roots. So you have to water the plant manually once in a while.

4. Size matters, so make sure to measure indoor or outdoor space where you want your planters placed. Check the planter’s dimensions to see if they have the suitable size to fit in the available space.

Will it be in 8-inch, 10-inch and 12-inch sizes, or do you need something bigger. Determine what shape will best fit the space and choose a square shape or circular shape planter. 

Choose a strong planter that can withstand the weight of the soil, vegetable plants or other type of plants. 

5. Check their price, features, and user reviews. Try to look for self-watering planters that have excellent reviews. Check for value-added features like color options or castor wheels.

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Final Thoughts

A self-watering planter is an excellent tool for busy people who love gardening, but sometimes do not have enough time to water their plants. It’s simple, convenient, and easy to use.

There are many available self-watering planters so, you have to choose the best one that fits your needs, preference, and budget. 

There is a lot of reasonably priced planters with great features on the list. But our Green Thumb Choice is the Self-Watering Elevated Planter Box. It has a large capacity and does its job efficiently. It has a reasonable price and good value for money.

Green Thumb Gardener
self watering garden product
Jeremy Starke

We at Green Thumb Gardener provide tips and guides for both for beginners and advanced gardeners out there. 

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