Begonia,

I don't think you need two wicks. If the soil is drying out and the wick is working, it will keep drawing. It helps to draw the wick across the bottom of the pot or twirl it around the bottom and then up the opposite side. Then there is more soil in contact with the wick. Some people use thicker wicks for larger pots; some don't. I use the same size for all pots.

Personally, I would never rely on a moisture meter. I find one of the easiest moisture indicators is the heft of the pot. Lift your pot when it is freshly watered and feel the weight. Lift again a few days later. You will soon be able to tell by the feel of the weight whether your plant needs water. Also, stick your finger down in the soil, don't just feel the top of the soil. That dries out quicker because it's exposed to the air.

Linda

This post was edited by whitelacey on Tue, Oct 1, 13 at 0:48

Hear, hear - seems you moisture meter wants you to put more water than you need. I put 2 wicks ( if I am using #18 mason twine) in 4 inch pots and above - or just switch to acrylic yarn wick - 1.

Irina

I think the idea of making a longer wick and creating some coil at the bottom is a good one, especially for larger pots.

I am new to wicking so it will be interesting to see how it works.

Irina,

Do you have a preference between yarn and twine? I have always used the acrylic yarn and am wondering if you have noticed any difference between the two.

Linda

Linda - hi -

yarn is not getting salted and lasts longer - but since I grow on mats - it will put too much water in smaller pots. So - for up to 3" I use twine.

I.