Self-watering hydroponic drip plant pot

🌿 Self-watering pot

This self-watering pot is designed to combine design, functionality, and versatility, utilizing easily available components and a simple yet ingenious mechanical system. Printing does NOT require supports

The model consists of two main parts:

1. Interchangeable cap
   • Designed to perfectly fit IKEA CITRONHAJ glass containers (pack of 2 pieces for only €2.75)
     • LINK IKEA_UK
     • LINK_IKEA_ITA
   • The cap has been tested for over 20 consecutive insertions without signs of breakage or loss of precision (PETG is recommended as it is more durable in the long term)
   • It functions as an “active” element of the system: when inserted into the pot, it opens an internal section that allows for controlled water outflow
2. Plant pot with integrated watering system
   • Securely holds the cap and water vial
   • Manages water flow to keep the substrate moist over time
   • Clean, modern design suitable for any environment

💧 How the watering system works

• The IKEA glass container serves as a water reservoir
• When the cap is inserted into the pot, the mechanism activates and allows water to flow
• With each water refill, it is necessary to “reset” the cap, by folding the 4 flaps back to the initial position to reactivate the mechanism

• The plant must initially be already wet and not dry (as it is a drip system, the soil must already be moist)
• For first use (or after refilling), it is recommended to slightly tilt the pot, to allow the water to be properly drawn into the irrigation system and for the self-watering process to be “activated”

A simple action that ensures reliable and constant operation 🌱

🧪 Recommended Material: PETG (not PLA)

Printing in PETG is strongly recommended for the following reasons:

• ✅ Greater resistance to humidity and water
• ✅ Better elasticity, crucial for the interlocking cap
• ✅ More durable over time compared to PLA, which tends to deform or weaken in humid environments
• ✅ Perfect for components that are inserted and removed multiple times

PLA is not recommended, especially for the cap, due to its fragility and poor resistance to humidity

I only left PLA as the base print profile because not everyone owns PETG (I advise you to get some)

✨ Why print it

• Modular and intelligent design
• Economical and easily available components
• Practical and reliable watering system
• Perfect for indoor plants and green design lovers

If you love plants but want less maintenance and more control, this self-watering pot is the perfect project to print
Load the filament, prepare the printer… and let the pot take care of your plant 🌿

🙏 If my designs brighten up your day, you can support my work by giving me a free boost. Your support is invaluable! Thank you!

If you’d just like to make a one-off donation, you can buy me a coffee here ;)

https://buymeacoffee.com/byphildesign