Tips for Using Houseplant Watering Globes

As a skilled gardener and home improvement expert, I’ve found that houseplant watering globes can be a useful tool for keeping soil moist. However, using them effectively requires some knowledge. In this article, I’ll share important tips on how to use houseplant watering globes, including how to put them in the right place, how to clean them, and how to avoid clogging. Here’s what you need to know.

Do Automatic Houseplant Watering Globes Actually Work?

Those pretty glass plant-watering globes or aqua globes do serve a purpose in plant care, but the advertisements can be misleading if you aren’t paying attention. Water globes claim that by filling the globe with a specific amount of water and inserting it into the soil, your plant will receive a trickle of water for up to two weeks. But, depending on the soil, the water may not last nearly that long, and using water globes requires periodic cleaning.

While plant watering globes can be a good way to keep your plants steadily watered, they’re no substitute for taking the time to care for your plants.

How To Use Watering Globes for Houseplants

Here are my tips on how to use watering globes for your houseplants in order to achieve the best results.

Water Globes Keep Plants Watered for 1-2 Weeks

Automatic watering globes water your plants for up to two weeks. You’ll have to refill the globes every week or two. I don’t know about you, but given the choice between cleaning and refilling glass globes and simply pouring some water into my plants, I’ll probably choose to water the plants by hand.

The watering globes aren’t designed to save time but to moderate the water plants receive. It won’t take care of your plants on that month-long vacation, and it won’t remove “houseplant care” from your to-do list. However, they may help keep your plans moist while you head out of town for a few days.

Water Globes Keep Soil Moisture Constant

Globes administer a steady dose of water that your soil absorbs as it dries out. That means no more overflowing drainage trays or waterlogged plants. It also means that the rate of emptying depends on your soil — they may last two weeks in some soil and only a few days in different soil.

Water Globes for Sensitive Plants

While you can water certain houseplants once a week or so, some plants seem to suffer if they dry out even for a day. If your plants wilt too easily, the watering systems can help, though they’re not replacements for actually watering your plants. Keep in mind that wilting may be a sign that your plant needs to be repotted.

How To Clean Water Globes

The straw portion of the globe can easily clog with debris, and the inside can grow mold and algae over time. Cleaning the globes can be tricky — you may need a narrow pipe cleaner to clear the passageway.

How To Keep Water Globes From Clogging

To prevent clogs, make a hole in the soil with a pencil or knife before inserting the globe. Simply shoving the point into the soil can force soil into the opening — it can also break the globe and cut your hand.

How To Insert Water Globes in Soil

Full water globes are pretty top-heavy. They work best in bigger pots with deeper plant roots. This keeps them from falling over.

Proper Globe Placement

Position the globe at a slight angle to ensure smooth water flow. Place it away from direct sunlight to prevent algae growth inside the globe.

Don’t Forget To Monitor Water Levels and Adjust Each Season

Regularly check the water level in your globes. When it’s nearly empty, it’s time for a refill. This also allows you to assess how quickly your plant is consuming water. Remember that plants’ water needs change with the seasons. You may need to refill globes more frequently during growing seasons or in warmer months when plants are more active.

Choosing the Right Watering Globe for Your Plants

Selecting the appropriate self-watering globe is important for the health of your plants. Consider the size of your pot and the water needs of your plant. Larger globes are suitable for bigger pots and thirstier plants, while smaller globes work well for compact containers.

I suggest looking for durable, high-quality glass or plastic globes with long, narrow necks to ensure a steady water flow. Remember, different plants have varying moisture requirements, so you may need to experiment with different globe sizes or amounts of water to find the perfect match for each of your houseplants.

Troubleshooting Common Watering Globe Issues

Even with proper use, you may run into some challenges with glass watering globes. If water isn’t flowing, check for air bubbles in the neck — gently tapping the globe can help dislodge them. Slow water release might mean your soil is too compacted — in this case, try aerating the dry soil around the globe.

If the globe keeps falling over, make sure you’ve inserted it deep enough and consider using a plant stake for added support. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and checking for cracks, will help prevent most issues and ensure your watering globes provide good moisture levels.

Final Thoughts on Watering Globes for Plants

Mastering the use of indoor plant watering globes can make your plant care routine more efficient. By following my tips on how to use DIY houseplant watering globes — from proper insertion and cleaning to troubleshooting common issues — you’ll keep the soil moisture at good levels and promote healthier plant growth.

However, self-watering systems aren’t a 100% substitute for attentive care for your garden or plants. I still recommend regularly monitoring and adjusting to your potted plants’ needs to help your plants thrive.

Further Reading

• How to Water Houseplants (video)
• How to Repot Houseplants (article)
• Beginner's Guide to Caring for Houseplants (article)