A high quality Capillary Matting which transports water quickly and evenly over flat level surfaces allowing a large number of plants to be very easily watered and at the same time creating a good humid atmosphere.
A 1/8" (3mm) thick non-toxic, cotton/polyester material with a water holding capacity of approx. 5 pints per sq. yd. and a capillary lift of about 4" (10cm), i.e. it will draw water up out of a reservoir.
Water the matting by hand or for more constant watering from a Water Reservoir attached to your benches or shelves.
Use the matting either way up; its' dark side is useful for hiding unsightly soil spillage and also discourages algae growth, its' white side will reflect more light which can be beneficial when growing light sensitive plants.
23" (60 cm) wide, if covering a wider area simply overlap the matting by about 1" to allow water to be carried from one piece to another.
Supplied in continuous lengths to avoid any wastage simply purchase as many metres as required and cut to size.
Capillary Matting is used in capillary watering systems to provide plants with water through the base of their pots. The natural capillary action of the compost draws water from the matting allowing plants to take up water as they need it.
Tips for efficient use of Capillary Matting:
Use matting on flat, level surfaces to prevent puddles forming (remember plants shouldn't be stood directly in water - it causes roots to rot). The water supply for the matting should not be above the area to be watered otherwise flooding will occur - ideally it should be level or no more than 4" (10cm) below.
Don't allow matting to overhang the edge of a bench - otherwise water will drain off.
Reduce water loss through evaporation and inhibit algae growth by covering with perforated polythene.
To use matting on slatted wooden surfaces pin on a sheet of thick polythene to form a flat surface.
Don't put crocks in the bottom of your pots (this stops the natural capillary action of the compost).
Turn pots and trays regularly to prevent roots growing into the matting. |
