Wicking Beds: A Water-Saving Solution for Arid Gardens
Introduction
If you live in an area with low rainfall, gardening can be a challenge. But there’s a simple and effective solution: wicking beds. Wicking beds allow water to accumulate and be absorbed by plant roots naturally, making it possible to grow water-loving plants even in dry climates.
What is a Wicking Bed?
A wicking bed is a raised garden bed built over a water reservoir of the same size. The plants in the bed absorb water from the reservoir at a natural rate, even if the surrounding soil is dry. This makes wicking beds ideal for arid climates, areas under water-hogging trees, and gardens that don’t receive regular irrigation.
How to Build a Wicking Bed
Building a wicking bed is relatively easy and can be done in your own garden without too much hassle. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Choose the size and shape of your raised bed. The water reservoir should be the same size as the raised bed.
- Dig a hole that’s the same dimensions and about one foot deep.
- Line the hole with impermeable plastic sheeting.
- Cut a length of plastic pipe so that it spans the hole. Drill several holes into the side of the pipe that faces down.
- Attach a 90-degree bend and a shorter straight piece to one end of the pipe. This will allow you to add water to the reservoir.
- Fill the hole with gravel.
- Place the frame of your raised bed on top of the gravel.
- Drill a hole near the bottom of the frame. This will allow water to escape if the reservoir overflows and will keep your plants from drowning.
- Fill the frame with rich soil.
- Insert a garden hose into the section of pipe that’s poking above the soil line and fill the reservoir with water. Keep this pipe covered with a stone when you’re not using it to prevent evaporation and to protect curious critters.
Tips for Building a Wicking Bed
- Use a large enough water reservoir. The larger the reservoir, the less often you’ll need to water your plants.
- Use a good quality plastic sheeting to line the hole. This will prevent water from leaking out of the reservoir.
- Drill plenty of holes in the plastic pipe. This will allow water to flow easily into the reservoir.
- Cover the pipe with a stone when you’re not using it. This will prevent evaporation and keep out pests.
Benefits of Wicking Beds
Wicking beds offer a number of benefits, including:
- Water conservation: Wicking beds use less water than traditional gardens because the water is delivered directly to the plant roots.
- Reduced maintenance: Wicking beds require less watering and weeding, making them ideal for busy gardeners.
- Improved plant growth: Wicking beds provide plants with a constant supply of water, which can lead to improved growth and yields.
Conclusion
Wicking beds are a great way to grow water-loving plants in arid climates or areas with poor soil drainage. They are easy to build and maintain, and they can help you save water and grow healthier plants.
