ISLA & Echo Care Guide
Simple care for your ISLA or Echo
Your self-watering planter uses a wick to move water from the lower reservoir into the growing medium. It helps reduce how often you water, but your plant still needs suitable light, air around its roots and regular checks.
Set up your system
Use the planting instructions supplied with your model to position the wick and prepare the growing medium. For ISLA, watch our build guide. Follow your model's instructions for the first watering before relying on the reservoir.
Fill the lower reservoir only. Keep stored water below the planting chamber so the growing medium is not submerged. Do not fill the entire vessel. If you are unsure about the correct level or wick position, send us a side-on photo before adding more water.
When to refill
Check the reservoir and growing medium regularly, especially while you learn your plant's needs. Refill when the reservoir is low and the growing medium needs moisture, following your setup instructions. If the medium is still saturated, do not keep topping up; check the water level, wick setup and light conditions.
There is no fixed refill schedule for every plant. Plant size, light, temperature, season and growing medium all affect water use. Observe your own setup before relying on it while travelling.
Your plant and its position
- Ficus benjamina: choose a bright position with indirect light, away from cold draughts. Keep its position consistent; changes in light or location can lead to leaf drop.
- Philodendron Birkin: choose bright, indirect light and a warm position. Protect the foliage from harsh direct sun.
A decorative shelf or desk still needs enough light for the plant you choose. Ask us for advice if you are unsure about your space.
Ongoing care
Wipe dusty leaves gently with a damp cloth and check the leaf undersides and stems for pests. If you find a problem, identify it before choosing a treatment and follow the product label. Contact us for help rather than relying on a routine spray to prevent every pest.
Follow the label on your fertiliser and avoid guessing the dose. Remove dead foliage carefully. Before reducing roots or replacing all of the growing medium, ask us for advice suited to your plant and its condition.
If your plant is struggling
Yellow leaves, wilting or leaf drop can have several causes. Check the light, reservoir level and moisture in the growing medium before adding more water. If you notice a bad smell, persistently soggy medium or soft roots, contact us promptly for help with the setup.
We are a family business and are happy to help. Email support@photosynthesis.com.au with your order number and clear photos of the whole plant, growing medium and reservoir.
Plant reference guides: Ficus benjamina care, NC State Extension and Philodendron care, RHS.