Berberis flowerpot / Self-watering planter

The Berberis line includes planters and pots in several sizes. Depending on the model, they hold from 1.5 to 8.5 gallons (5.7 to 32 liters) of potting mix and have a reservoir of 0.5 to 3.2 gallons (1.9 to 12 liters) of water. The UNO and Round 46 cm models come with 4 casters, so they're easy to move around. Choose your size from the list on the product page, based on the space you have available.

Yes, the Berberis planter is made for it: balconies, patios, windowsills, and gardens. An overflow system drains away excess water, for example after a heavy rain. According to the manufacturer's instructions, the included overflow plug is for indoor use only. It works well for flowers, herbs, salad greens, strawberry plants, and small vegetables. Plants that like to dry out between waterings, such as cacti, won't do as well in it.

Pour water into the Berberis through the wide fill opening, taking care not to let it overflow, and keep an eye on the water level indicator: it shows you how much water is left in the reservoir. After planting, the manufacturer recommends watering from the top for about 14 days while the roots get established. After that, simply refill the reservoir when the indicator is low. There's no need to keep it full all the time: most plants do better in potting mix that dries out a little between waterings.

Fill the Berberis with a light, well-draining potting mix so the soil doesn't stay waterlogged above the irrigation strips. For flowers, strawberry plants, or small vegetables, mix 30% vermicompost with 70% potting mix at planting time, then feed with diluted compost tea from time to time (1 part tea to 9 parts water). Go easy on it: fertilizer salts build up in a container that doesn't drain. Flush the soil in the Berberis planter with plenty of water every so often, and replace it every year.