This high quality capillary matting is ideal for use on greenhouses benches, and indoors for holid...This high quality capillary matting is ideal for use on greenhouses benches, and indoors for holiday watering. This high-quality matting provides even water distribution across flat surfaces, keeping plants well-hydrated with minimal effort. It works by using capillary action to draw water upwards from a reservoir (sink or a bucket) and distributes it evenly across the matting's surface, allowing plant roots to absorb moisture through their pots. This ensures optimal hydration, reducing the need for frequent manual watering and promoting healthy plant growth. Made from wood pulp and polyester, this capillary matting is highly absorbent and can hold up to 2.8 litres (6 pints) of water per square metre, with a capillary lift of 6 cm. To use, place the matting green side up, cut a piece to use as a wick that touches the bottom of the water source and overlaps the matting with the plants on by at least 3 cm. Always water the matting and plants when setting up to activate the capillary action. The matting can be cut easily using scissors to fit greenhouse benches, shelving or growing trays, allowing you to size it to match staging widths or propagation areas while maintaining water distribution. If the matting becomes soiled, it can be cleaned using warm water and mild detergent or a citrus-based cleaner to maintain water movement through the fibres.
Best current price£27.99from Gardening Naturally UK
This Green Capillary Matting from Gardening Naturally is designed for gardeners seeking an effortless and consistent watering solution for plants on greenhouse benches and indoors. Its key benefit is providing even water distribution via capillary action, significantly reducing manual watering frequency and promoting healthy root development. A minor caveat is the need for initial setup and ensuring a good water source connection. This high-quality matting is made from wood pulp and polyester, offering excellent absorbency and efficient water transfer to plant pots.
All features
Model Part Number
GCPM065
Brand
Gardening Naturally
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is capillary matting used for?
Capillary matting is used to provide consistent, automatic watering for plants by drawing water from a reservoir through capillary action and distributing it to plant pots placed on its surface.
How much water can the matting hold?
The matting can hold up to 2.8 litres (6 pints) of water per square metre.
Can I cut the matting to size?
Yes, the matting can be easily cut using scissors to fit greenhouse benches, shelving, or growing trays to your specific needs.
How do I ensure the matting works effectively?
Place the matting green side up, ensure a proper wick connection to the water source, and water the matting and plants initially to activate capillary action. Plant pots should overlap the matting by at least 3 cm.
What material is the matting made from?
The matting is made from a combination of wood pulp and polyester.
How high can the water be lifted by the matting?
The capillary lift of the matting is 6 cm.
How often does the water reservoir need refilling?
This depends on the size of the reservoir, the number of plants, ambient temperature, and humidity. For extended periods like holidays, a large reservoir is recommended.
Troubleshooting
Matting is not drawing water
Ensure the matting is fully saturated initially. Check that the reservoir is full and the matting wick is submerged and in good contact with the water. Verify the matting is green side up.
Plants are too wet or too dry
Adjust the number of plants on the matting or the size of the matting. Ensure the water reservoir is at an appropriate level. Some plants may require different watering schedules than what capillary matting provides.
Mold or algae growth on the matting
Clean the matting with warm water and mild detergent or a citrus-based cleaner. Rinse thoroughly. Ensure good air circulation around the plants.
Water flow seems reduced over time
Clean the matting to remove any accumulated soil or mineral deposits that might be blocking the fibres. Ensure the water source is clean.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Provides consistent and even watering for multiple plants.
Saves significant time by reducing the need for manual watering.
Promotes healthier plant growth through optimal root zone hydration.
Flexible and easy to cut to custom sizes for various setups.
Effective for both greenhouse and indoor plant care.
Cons
Requires a consistent water reservoir and initial setup to function.
May require occasional cleaning to maintain optimal water flow.
Not suitable for plants that require specific dry periods between watering.
The 6cm capillary lift might be insufficient for very tall pots or large reservoirs.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup:
Cut the matting to the desired size using scissors.
Place the matting green side up on your bench or surface.
Position one end of the matting into a water reservoir (sink, bucket, or dedicated water tray), ensuring it reaches the bottom.
Arrange plant pots on the matting, ensuring they overlap the matting by at least 3 cm.
Water the matting and the plants thoroughly to initiate the capillary action.
Compatibility:
Compatible with most standard plant pots.
Suitable for use on greenhouse benches, shelving units, and indoor plant stands.
Works best with a water reservoir that can maintain a consistent water level.
Care:
Clean the matting periodically using warm water and a mild detergent or a citrus-based cleaner.
Rinse thoroughly after cleaning to remove any residue.
Allow the matting to dry completely before storing if not in continuous use.