The pots are designed to be a simple as possible utilizing ‘deep water culture’ hydroponics. The seed is germinated in a 20mm diameter rockwool plug which is placed in a perforated basket in the lid of the pot. The pot is then filled with a water and fertilizer solution which is absorbed through the roots. 

The inspiration for this design was the IKEA indoor garden with a similar system for growing plants. The issue with the IKEA system is that plants cannot be separated if they outgrow the system or crowd other plants. The plants need to be repotted in soil which is not always possible without damaging the roots. 

The design includes a reservoir for the fertilizer, a lid with a built in funnel for watering, a replaceable basket and some clips to support the stem of the plant. Plants grown hydroponically tend to be less stable due to their smaller roots, the clips really help support the plants as they grow.

The pots need to be printed with 3 perimeters with a 0.4mm nozzle or 2 perimeters with a 0.6mm nozzle to ensure water-tightness. PLA works fine and does not leak or degrade over time. It is recommended to print with a 0.6mm nozzle as it is more than twice the speed using a 0.4mm nozzle and doesn't depreciate quality. The gcode for both sizes is included.