Most people use acylic yarn 4ply. Wicking works, but it is a slow process. Before you insert the wick make sure it is completely saturated or it wont work. Make sure enough of the wick is inserted so it meets itself in a completely circle on the bottom of pot. I like to use clear plastic pots and you can see the moisture moving up the pot. For wicking purposes you need the well drained soil or you will most likely get root rot. YOu will need spahgnum peat, vermiculite and perlite in a ratio of 1-1-1 IF you do the things Ive mentioned in this post the wicking will work.

When inserting the wick, push it up from the bottom til you see it at the top then cover it with soil. Wick must be wet and soil must be damp to start the process.

Lighter soil will permit the water to drain.

Nancy