Best Plants for Plant Watering Globes: Your Summer Watering Guide

Keeping your plants hydrated during the scorching summer months is a constant battle. Plant watering globes (also called aqua globes or plant watering bulbs) offer a brilliant self-watering solution for when you're busy or away. But the key to success is knowing which plants to pair them with. This guide covers the best plants for plant watering globes and which ones to avoid for a lush, healthy garden all summer long.

How Do Plant Watering Globes Work?

Plant watering globes are glass or plastic bulbs that you fill with water and insert into your soil. They work by slowly releasing water as the soil dries out, providing a consistent level of moisture. They are perfect for:
✔ Preventing underwatering during heatwaves.
✔ Maintaining perfect moisture for thirsty plants.
✔ Reducing water waste through targeted, slow hydration.

Top 5 Best Plants for Plant Watering Globes

1. Tropical Houseplants
🌿 Examples: Peace lilies, Pothos, Philodendrons, Monstera
✅ Why They Work: These plants naturally love evenly moist soil. Plant watering globes provide the consistent, slow-drip hydration they crave without the risk of forgetfulness.

2. Flowering Annuals (Potted or Hanging Baskets)
🌸 Examples: Petunias, Begonias, Impatiens, Fuchsias
✅ Why They Work: Hanging baskets dry out incredibly fast in the summer sun. Watering globes act as a reservoir to prevent wilting and keep blooms vibrant.

3. Herbs (Indoor & Outdoor Pots)
🌱 Examples: Basil, Parsley, Mint, Cilantro
✅ Why They Work: Herbs need steady moisture to produce lush, tasty leaves. Plant watering bulbs prevent the soil from completely drying out, which can cause herbs to bolt or turn bitter.

4. Ferns & Humidity-Lovers
🍃 Examples: Boston ferns, Maidenhair ferns, Calatheas
✅ Why They Work: These plants suffer quickly in dry conditions. Watering globes mimic their natural, humid environment by constantly providing moisture to the roots.

5. Succulents & Cacti (With Caution!)
🌵 Examples: Aloe vera, Snake Plant, Jade Plant (use mini globes sparingly)
⚠ Warning: Only use small plant watering globes for a very short duration (e.g., a week vacation) and ensure the soil is extremely well-draining to avoid fatal overwatering.

Plants to Avoid With Plant Watering Globes

❌ Drought-Tolerant Plants: Lavender, Rosemary, Sage, and Succulents (generally). They prefer dry soil and will develop root rot.
❌ Orchids & Air Plants: Their watering needs are too specialized and require periods of dryness.
❌ Seedlings: Their delicate roots need controlled moisture; a globe can easily overwater them.

Pro Tips for Using Plant Watering Globes in Summer

• Size Matters: Use large aqua globes for big pots and smaller ones for delicate plants.
• Prime the Globe: Fill it completely with water and insert it quickly to create a vacuum seal.
• Test the Flow: Before you leave, do a test run to see how quickly it empties and adjust the insertion depth.
• Refill Promptly: Refill your plant watering globes before they are completely empty to maintain the vacuum and prevent airlocks.
• Use with Mulch: Adding a layer of mulch on top of the soil helps retain even more moisture.

Final Thoughts: Are Plant Watering Globes Worth It?

✅ YES—if you use them with the right moisture-loving plants. They are a lifesaver for container gardens and houseplants in the summer heat.
❌ NO—for drought-loving plants or in-ground garden beds.

For a truly foolproof system, pair your plant watering globes with terracotta spikes for controlled, consistent moisture all season long!