Terracotta Watering Stake | Kikkerland

The Kikkerland Terracotta Watering Stake is a simple slow-release watering spike for houseplants, designed to keep compost moist between regular waterings – particularly useful when you're away on holiday, busy, or looking after plants that dry out quickly.

Made from porous terracotta, the stake gradually releases water into the surrounding compost. Attach a filled wine bottle or standard plastic bottle to create a larger water reservoir, allowing moisture to be supplied slowly over several days rather than all at once.

Kikkerland states that, with a bottle attached, the watering stake can provide water for up to two weeks. The actual length of time will vary depending on the size of the water reservoir, the plant, pot size, compost, temperature and how quickly the plant is using water.

Ideal for Watering Plants While You're Away

If you're wondering how to keep houseplants watered while you're on holiday, a terracotta watering stake is a compact and inexpensive solution. Water your plant as appropriate before you leave, fill a suitable bottle with water and attach it to the stake to provide a gradual additional water supply while you're away.

For more advice before a trip, read our guide to caring for houseplants while you're on holiday.

How to Use

Insert the terracotta stake carefully into the plant's compost, making sure it is stable. Fill a wine bottle or standard plastic bottle with water, then attach the bottle to the opening of the stake.

Water will gradually pass through the porous terracotta and into the surrounding compost. Check the system before relying on it for a longer period away so you can see how quickly the water is being used by your particular plant.

Which Plants Is It Best For?

This watering stake is most useful for houseplants that prefer their compost to remain more consistently moist or for plants that tend to dry out while you're away.

It may not be appropriate for plants such as many cacti and succulents that prefer their compost to dry thoroughly between waterings. Every plant has different requirements, so it's always worth considering how your particular plant normally likes to be watered.

Product Details

Brand: Kikkerland
Product: Terracotta Watering Stake
Product code: CD680
Material: Terracotta
Dimensions: approximately 4.5cm diameter × 25cm long
Water reservoir: Suitable for use with a wine bottle or standard plastic bottle
Maximum stated watering time: Up to two weeks, depending on conditions

Why We Love It

It's an incredibly simple idea that solves a very familiar problem. Rather than relying on someone else to remember your watering routine while you're away, you can give an individual plant its own slow-release water supply using a bottle you already have at home. At only 25cm long, it's also much less cumbersome than many larger self-watering systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the Terracotta Watering Stake while I'm on holiday?

Yes. This is one of its most useful applications. With a filled bottle attached, Kikkerland states that the stake can slowly water a plant for up to two weeks. How long the water actually lasts will depend on the bottle size, plant, pot, compost and environmental conditions, so we recommend testing it with your plant before a longer trip.

What type of bottle can I use with the watering stake?

Kikkerland recommends using a wine bottle or standard plastic bottle filled with water. The bottle acts as the reservoir, supplying water to the porous terracotta stake as it gradually releases moisture into the compost.

Does a terracotta watering spike work for every houseplant?

Not necessarily. It is best suited to plants that appreciate more consistent moisture. Plants that prefer to dry out substantially between waterings, including many cacti and succulents, may not need a continuous slow-release water supply. For more general guidance, see our houseplant watering guide.