Cannabis Wick Feeding

If you are not familiar with this low-cost, easy-to-use method, then get ready to learn all you need to know about the wick feeding and all the benefits associated with it. In this article, I will explain what wick feeding is, the science behind this method, the different growing mediums you can use, a step-by-step guide on how to make a cannabis wick feeding system and the most common mistakes to avoid.

How it works

• A cotton or nylon wick is placed through the bottom of a pot
• The wick hangs down into a water or nutrient reservoir
• The growing medium absorbs moisture from the wick through capillary action
• Water is continuously pulled upward into the root zone as needed
• Plants take up moisture naturally without the risk of overwatering

How Does Capillary Action Work?

Capillary action is the movement of water through porous materials. So this means all you need to do is place the wick at the bottom of your pot and let it come into contact with a water source below.  

This can be a bucket of water or a large tray for several plants. Water will be drawn from the water source upwards into the wick, allowing moisture to be transported upwards directly into the growing medium and the root zone.

You may think they are similar to hempy buckets; however, they differ greatly in how the plants use water and in system maintenance.

The Benefits of Using Cannabis Wick Feeding 

• Plants are self-sufficient and do not need hand watering
• Cheap, simple and straightforward to set up
• You can buy all materials in a hardware shop
• There is no need for electricity or water pumps
• Plants are kept well hydrated using the wick method
• Perfect for growers who need time away from their crop
• Highly practical for indoor and outdoor grow setups

What Equipment Do I Need?

The beauty of the wick feeding system is the fact that you only:

• 1 x plastic pot, 
• 1 x 100cm cotton or nylon wick
• 1 x bucket or tray for the water
• Airy and perlite-rich growing medium

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Own Cannabis Wick System

Setting up a wick system is easy, and anyone can do it. You don't need much and can complete the process within 5 minutes if you are well prepared. Below is a step-by-step guide to setting up the wick-feeding method.

Step 1 - Take your plastic or felt pots and create a hole in the bottom
Step 2 - Insert a 10-20mm diameter-sized cotton or nylon wick into the hole
Step 3 - The wick inside the pot should be 4-5 inches in length
Step 4 - Fill the pot up with an airy, perlite-rich growing medium
Step 5 - Fill a bucket or tray of water and place it close by
Step 6 - Insert the wick into the bucket or tray

It is best to set the pot up so it is above the bucket or tray, and the wick has a chance to hang down straight, allowing water to be sucked up in a straight line. As the growing medium becomes dry, it will automatically suck up water and keep the moisture levels in the pot as consistent as possible.

What To Know About Wick Feeding

Even though setting up a cannabis wick feeding system is easy to do, there are a few variables that you will need to take into consideration to ensure the best results possible. 

• You will need to carefully check the water level
• The water temperature may fluctuate
• Bigger plants demand more water than infant plants
• Bacteria and pathogens can develop if not well-maintained

Which Are The Best Growing Mediums To Use?

The most important factor is that the growing medium you are using is airy, spongy, able to retain water well, and does not become heavy, soggy, or dense when fully saturated. Below are the different growing medium options I would recommend for using the cannabis wick feeding system.

• Coco coir works very well due to its ability to hold lots of water and oxygen
• Soil mixed with 40/50% perlite provides the ideal conditions 
• Soil and coco coir together create a lightweight, oxygen-rich medium
• Peat moss can hold large amounts of water

Common Cannabis Wick System Mistakes To Avoid

I have used wick systems in the past with excellent results, and they are particularly helpful when you need to go away for 5-7 days on a short holiday. Below are the most common mistakes that growers can make when using a homemade cannabis wick feeding system.

#1 - Small-Sized Wicks

One of the most common mistakes is using a wick that is too small in diameter. Small-sized wicks, 0.5 - 1cm in diameter, work great for seedlings and small pots; however, you will want to use a 2cm diameter wick for larger plants. As your plants get bigger, they will require more water, so starting with a thick cotton or nylon wick is recommended, and consider the cannabis growing time.

#2 - Short Wick Size Inside The Pot

When inserting the wick through the hole in the pot base, make sure the wick is long enough to reach the bottom of the pot. I would advise using 4-5 inches of wick to keep the growing medium well-saturated. 

#3 - Poor Maintenance

Keeping your wicking system well-maintained will prevent the water from becoming stagnant and allowing pathogens to enter. Maintaining your wick system means keeping the reservoir freshly topped up with new water, cleaning away any debris, dirt, or insects that land in the water, and, if necessary, outdoors, creating a lid to protect the water source from sunlight.

#4 - Keeping the Reservoir low

Cannabis plants can drink a lot of water, especially once they mature. Keeping a close eye on the reservoir level beneath the wick will be the difference between happy, hydrated plants and a dry root zone, underwatering, and experiencing nutrient deficiencies. Top up the reservoir daily and never let the water line drop too low.

My Final Thoughts on Cannabis Wick Systems

Whilst wick systems are absolutely brilliant for growers who need to keep their plants well watered but need time away from their grow room, there are pros and cons to consider. You must keep your wick systems clean, well topped up and keep an eye on salt build-up around the wick. 

If you have many smaller plants, you can connect a wick from each pot to a large tray sat underneath the pots. Good luck experimenting with the cannabis wick method, and hopefully it allows you time away and a much-needed holiday!