🧪 The Science Behind Capillary Irrigation
The secret of this system lies in the calibrated porosity of the clay. Fired between 950°C and 1000°C, these cones act as an intelligent membrane. When the soil dries out, a natural physical tension "draws" water through the ceramic walls.
As soon as the soil reaches its optimal moisture level, the flow stops automatically. This passive mechanism prevents root asphyxiation and achieves water savings of 50 to 70% compared to traditional watering, while eliminating surface evaporation.
🛠️ Installation and Reservoir Optimization
The design is tailored for recycling standard PET bottles (0.5L to 1.5L). The bottle neck fits directly into the upper part of the cone, creating a leak-proof, self-contained reservoir.
Pro tip : For immediate priming, insert the cone 6 to 8 cm into pre-moistened soil. This establishes the necessary capillary contact between the clay and the earth right from the start.
In a planter, space units 15 to 20 cm apart to ensure a uniform moisture zone. Autonomy ranges from 5 days in full sun to over 12 days indoors, depending on the bottle size selected.
🔧 Technical Specifications
Material : 100% high-porosity natural terracotta
Dimensions : Height 11 cm / Opening 2.5 cm
Range : 15 to 20 cm around the cone
Compatibility : Standard plastic PET bottles
🧹 Care and Material Longevity
Terracotta is a durable material but sensitive to limescale. To maintain the porosity of the micro-channels, plan for annual cleaning : soak the cones for 12 hours in a water/white vinegar mix (50/50). This simple treatment dissolves mineral salts and restores the cone's original diffusion capacity.
Frost alert : In winter, the expansion of residual water in the walls can crack the clay. It is essential to remove the cones and store them dry as soon as temperatures drop below 0°C.
