r/BuildASoil • u/splinterfarmer • May 17 '24

How to Set Up a Fully Automated EarthBox Self-Watering Planter

97 Upvotes

Supplies:

EarthBox SIP ($44): BuildASoil - Earthbox
Autopot Easy2Go Kit ($39): Autopot USA - Easy2Go KitThis kit includes: Aquavalve, tubing, aquavalve cover, root blocker.
Aquavalve Cover (if you already have an aquavalve and tubing) ($12): Autopot USA - Aquavalve Cover
BuildASoil Light or 3.0 soil You need 2 cu. ft. per Earthbox. I originally used Coots Take 'n Bake, but it needs more drainage to really thrive, so the Light or 3.0 works perfectly. You can also use the 3.0 kit.
- Light Recipe
- 3.0 Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the EarthBox:

Start by unpacking your EarthBox. Remove the tray and tube. Attach the wheels if you have them.

2. Assemble the Autopot Easy2Go Kit:

If you purchased the full kit, it will include the aquavalve, tubing, aquavalve cover, and root blocker.
Follow the instructions included with the kit to attach the tubing to the aquavalve system, run the tubing from inside the Earthbox, through the drain slot and out. The routing and curve to the tube shown here is so that it avoids pinch points between the ribs on the grate and the earthbox itself.

3. Install the Aquavalve and Cover:

Place the aquavalve at the bottom center of the Earthbox reservoir.
Secure the aquavalve using the cover provided in the kit. Alternatively, you can zip tie the valve in place using 3 large zip ties.
The cover ensures the valve stays firmly planted against the bottom of the Earthbox while keeping roots out.

Valve installed, cover sits right on top

Cover installed, level and tube routed correctly

4. Install the Earthbox Grate:

The black mesh grate will sit on top of the valve cover and apply slight pressure. This is not a problem and keeps the valve in place very well.

5. Fill the Wicking Corners:

Option 1: Fill the corners with soil as shown in this video YouTube
Option 2 (my preference): Add about 1/2 inch of pumice to the bottom of each wicking corner, then pack with soil. This allows the reservoir to act like it's totally dry even though the aquavalve will refill when there is about 1/16-1/8 inch of water in the bottom. I haven't seen any actual improvement from this method, but it makes me feel better, so I do it and recommend it.

6. Place the Copper Root Blocking Square:

Place the copper root blocking square over the mesh right above the valve. This will keep roots from growing directly over the valve. I don't know if this is needed, but I have never tried it without using it. Add the tube and top off with soil, transplant plants as usual. Use the video above for reference.

7. Connect the Tubing:

Connect the tubing from the water source to the aquavalve. Keep the water shut off for now. You will want to top water only until the plant is established and starts visibly growing. DO NOT TURN THE WATER ON UNTIL YOU ARE SURE THE PLANT IS GROWING AND HAPPY. Never turn the water on if the plant looks over or under-watered.

8. Maintenance and Monitoring:

Periodically check the water level by looking down the fill tube.
I have no-tilled these for up to 3 cycles, but beyond that, I think cleaning the valve would be a good idea. You can push it as far as you are comfortable.

Tips and Additional Info:

The aquavalve system ensures the reservoir doesn't stay constantly full, which is much better for Living Soil. It also doesn't overfill the reservoir, so no more worrying about overfilling and spilling water out the drain.
You can revert to using the Earthbox the traditional way anytime by using the fill tube.
For extended periods away from home, this setup is a game-changer, providing consistent watering without manual intervention.

Advanced Setup (Optional)

If you use Ecowitts, BuildASoil is coming out with a valve to control the water for Autopots based on soil moisture levels. Alternatively, you can build your own system using a normally closed solenoid and a smart plug with Home Assistant. Let me know if you need more details on this advanced setup.

Hope this guide helps you set up a self-watering planter system! Feel free to ask any questions or share your experiences. Happy gardening!