STEAMwork | design + build
self-watering planters
let's get started!
Get ready to make your very own self-watering planters with this STEAMwork design + build challenge. Let us know what you’re growing in your planters!
materials
a large plastic container (2 liters)
sharp knife (be careful!)
soil
seeds or sprouts
rocks
additional resources
How do self-watering planters work? The mechanism behind how self-watering pots work is a phenomenon called “capillary action,” or “wicking.” This is also how plants, including the tallest trees, are able to overcome gravity to draw water up from their roots to the very top of the plant.
more STEAM learning
podcast
STEAM Daydream with National Children's Museum, a podcast that elevates children’s voices and answers their biggest questions.