Setting up and Growing in A Lechuza Self-Watering Container

Summary

In this video, the creator demonstrates how to set up a Lechuza self-watering planter for indoor herb gardening. The step-by-step guide highlights the simple setup process, which includes using Lechuza pond for plant nutrition and proper drainage. Tips on caring for herbs like basil, parsley, and thyme are shared, including the importance of regular harvesting. The video also features updates on the planter’s performance, showing that while rosemary and thyme thrive, basil requires more light. A great choice for easy, low-maintenance indoor gardening, the Lechuza planter is highly recommended for herb enthusiasts.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Lechuza self-watering planter is easy to set up and is a great choice for growing indoor plants.
• 😀 The setup process is simple, with clear instructions provided in a photo format, making it user-friendly.
• 😀 This self-watering container includes a base with stable legs, a water gauge, and a water reservoir.
• 😀 The Lechuza planter includes a special mixture called 'Lechuza Pond,' which consists of rocks, pumice, and stone to enhance plant growth and provide nutrients.
• 😀 When planting, it's important to use soil on top of the rocks without mixing them to maintain proper drainage.
• 😀 Herbs need to be regularly harvested for healthy growth; simply letting them grow without use can cause them to die.
• 😀 It's essential to use good-quality potting soil when planting in containers, especially if using indoor herbs.
• 😀 The Lechuza container has a water gauge to help you monitor when to refill the water, ensuring proper hydration for your plants.
• 😀 The planter has performed well in different conditions, including a breezeway that isn't heated but doesn't dip below freezing.
• 😀 Rosemary, thyme, and sage have been thriving in the container, showing strong growth despite varying indoor conditions.
• 😀 The Lechuza container is recommended for indoor use only, as it lacks drainage holes, making it unsuitable for outdoor placement where rain could interfere with water control.

Q & A

What is a Lechuza self-watering planter?

A Lechuza self-watering planter is a type of planter that automatically provides water to the plants through a built-in reservoir. It features a water gauge to track water levels and is designed to make plant care easier, especially indoors.

Why is the Lechuza planter considered easy to use?

The Lechuza planter is considered easy to use because the setup instructions are visually based with photos, making it simple to follow. It also eliminates the need for additional plastic planter boxes, as it has an efficient, clean design.

What is the purpose of the Lechuza pond mixture?

The Lechuza pond mixture, which includes lava rock and pumice, is designed to enhance plant growth by adding nutrients like calcium to the soil. It also helps with drainage, ensuring that the plants do not become waterlogged.

How should the soil be placed in the Lechuza planter?

Soil should be placed on top of the pond mixture without mixing it. The pond mixture is meant to provide drainage and prevent soil from falling into the water reservoir below.

What types of plants are mentioned in the video as being planted in the Lechuza planter?

The video features the planting of basil, parsley, and thyme. The presenter also mentions harvesting basil for pizza and repotting a parsley plant that was overwatered.

What is the key to keeping herbs alive in a self-watering planter?

The key to keeping herbs alive in a self-watering planter is regular harvesting. If the plants are not harvested, they can stop growing properly and eventually die. Using them in cooking ensures they remain healthy.

What did the presenter say about the water gauge in the Lechuza planter?

The water gauge in the Lechuza planter indicates when the water reservoir is full. The red stick in the gauge should be at the red ring when the reservoir is full. As the water level drops, it’s important to refill the container.

What challenges did the presenter face with the plants in the Lechuza planter?

The presenter faced challenges with insufficient light inside the house, which affected plant growth. While the basil did not produce new leaves, the rosemary and thyme thrived. Additionally, the parsley showed some new growth.

Can the Lechuza planter be used outdoors?

The Lechuza planter is not recommended for outdoor use because it lacks drainage holes. If exposed to rain, there’s no way to control how much water the planter holds, which could lead to overwatering.

What is the recommended environment for the Lechuza planter?

The Lechuza planter is best suited for indoor use, particularly in areas with consistent light and humidity. It can be placed in rooms like a mudroom or breezeway, but it requires careful attention to light and temperature conditions.