Waterbed™ FAQs
About Waterbed™
What is Waterbed?
Waterbed is a self-contained plant watering system designed to ensure plants get just the right amount of water to thrive in a retail setting. This dual-purpose unit showcases live goods while addressing all watering needs, allowing retailers to spend more time on what matters — customer satisfaction.
How does Waterbed work?
The Waterbed tray uses a watering technique commonly known as “bottom watering” to provide a consistent moisture level directly to plant roots. The plant containers’ weight put pressure on the capillary mat, activating water distribution to those areas of the tray. The soil then absorbs this water like a sponge, allowing a plant’s roots to pull the water up to hydrate itself.
Why should I choose Waterbed?
Waterbed was designed specifically for the retail environment. It is entirely self-sufficient and straightforward to use, meaning employees don’t need extensive training to learn how much or when to water each plant. It doesn’t require frequent attention since the reservoirs will hold up to one day’s worth of water and distribute it as needed. Also, Waterbed is a money-saver as it keeps your plants healthy, so you have less shrink.
What tray sizes are available?
Waterbed comes in four tray sizes: 36”L x 20”W x 3”H, 48”L x 20”W x 3”H, 66”L x 20”W x 3”H, and 48”L x 24”W x 2.5”H
Will Waterbed integrate with my current displays?
Waterbed is conveniently sized to integrate perfectly with many types of plant displays, including our Stepped or Platform Displays. The 48×24” Waterbed provides a more universal fit, while our other trays are specifically designed to integrate with our line of Benchmaster Stepped Displays and are optimized for maximum water capacity. Retrofit kits are also available for easy installation on your current Benchmaster displays.
Waterbed™ Set-Up
How do I set up Waterbed?
A Waterbed tray comes pre-assembled and ready to use. Simply position Waterbed on the bench and place plants onto the tray. Some displays may need to be disassembled first to secure the tray to the display.
Does Waterbed need to be on a level surface?
Sloped sidewalks and uneven surfaces are no problem for Waterbed. Other systems pool water in low spots, flooding some plants while starving others. Waterbed’s patented self-regulating design maintains a consistent moisture profile across the entire surface, no matter the grade.
What type of container works with Waterbed?
Proper water distribution relies on direct contact from a plants’ pot or container to provide a means for water to pass through. Therefore, plant containers must have holes at the bottom and direct access to the mat.
Can Waterbed be retrofitted to an existing irrigation infrastructure?
We do not recommend that any alterations be made to the Waterbed tray as it may negatively affect its overall performance. However, Waterbed can work alongside any existing infrastructure. It can passively capture water from overhead sprinklers or permanently integrated with irrigation systems that deliver water directly to the fill holes.
Using Waterbed™
How do you fill and maintain the Waterbed tray?
To start, place plants on the Waterbed tray. When introducing plants to the tray, you will need to wet soil from the top of the pots to help with initial water absorption. Next, position your water source over the fill hole and fill the tray until water comes out of the drain holes. Monitor the water level in the trays and refill as needed.
Will water pool or flood the trays if it rains?
No, a Waterbed tray cannot be overfilled. There’s no need to worry if it rains or if an overhead irrigation system is used near it. Once the water inflow stops, the excess water will drain away until the reservoir level is below the height of the capillary mat.
Where can I use Waterbed?
Waterbed is self-contained and self-regulated, meaning it can be put anywhere – you are not tied to permanent plumbing or irrigation systems. It also integrates perfectly with our Benchmaster™ plant displays.
How often does Waterbed need to be refilled?
Factors such as regional climates, sun exposure, and individual plant needs contribute to how often a tray will need refilling. In the hottest of temperatures, a full tray will provide a day’s worth of water, while it can last up to a week in mild climates.
Care & Maintenance
What type of care and maintenance is needed?
Waterbed requires minimal care and maintenance. For light debris and soil, simply spray off with a hose. For stuck-on residue or mineral buildup, start by removing plants from the tray and rinse with a high-powered hose. Only use water to clean the tray. For more information, download our care and maintenance guide.
Should I be worried about mold and algae growth?
Mineral deposits may appear on the capillary mat’s surface, but this will not hinder overall performance. The tray’s top surface layer is designed to block sunlight and prevent algae from growing on the inside fabric. If build-up occurs, it is recommended that you spray down the tray.
Will a plant’s roots grow into the mat lining of the tray?
No, the uppermost layer of Waterbed uses a micro-perforated material that prevents plant roots from growing into and through the fabric.
How should Waterbed be stored when not in use?
At the end of the season, hose off each tray and flush the unit with water. Let fully dry, then stack upside down on a pallet. If available, stretch wrap the trays and store them in a covered area.
Have more questions?
Email us or call 800-523-6899 to speak with a sales representative.
