From Backyard to National Market: How a Self Watering Planter Grew Into a Million-Dollar Brand

What happens when a mechanical engineer with 20 years of experience, who once helped build Amazon’s logistics network, brings her backyard idea to life?

For Kay Wells, it meant turning a simple design into a company that now produces 500 self watering planters per week, and is on track to become a million-dollar business.

In a recent conversation with venture investor Arlan Hamilton, Kay shared how engineering innovation, sharp market instincts, and persistence turned Posie Pots from a backyard concept into a fast-growing brand.

Jumping on the “water once a month” idea

Posie Pots started with a simple observation: most people either forget to water their plants or overwater them. Kay noticed that most self watering planters on the market relied on “wicking strings” and “tiny reservoirs.” She believed that was simply not enough.

Her solution was different: a patented one-piece 3D-printed design with a built-in reservoir that holds 10 times more water than a traditional pot. This structure not only eliminates fragile external parts but also reduces pests and root rot, making plant care easier and healthier.

Kay says: “Plants, like us, have their own signals. When they need water, their roots naturally absorb it. You no longer have to remember every single day.”

FAQ: About self watering planters

What is a self watering planter?

A self watering planter has a built-in reservoir that lets plants draw water as they need. Posie Pots’ patented one-piece design means you only water two cups once  a month — no overflow, no root rot.

Why is it better than traditional self watering planters?

Traditional models often rely on wicking strings and tiny reservoirs that dry out or break down. Posie Pots uses a patented 3D-printed design with a large reservoir, reducing pests and root rot while ensuring durability.

How much water does it need and how often? 

Simply add about two cups of water. With Posie Pots, you only refill once a month.

Building a self watering planter brand

Kay’s background wasn’t in horticulture at the first place it was in engineering at Boeing and Amazon. She once oversaw large-scale fulfillment centers, which gave her a unique perspective on efficiency and scalable systems.

Early in Posie Pots’ journey, the brand was featured on local TV stations, in business journals, and in the Nasdaq Milestone Makers program. The products also launched on Walmart Marketplace, giving them visibility with a wider audience.

Many competitors have since entered the space, some even copying elements of her design. But as Arlan Hamilton highlighted during their conversation, the biggest difference is that Posie Pots has a real founder — Kay  and the nation’s only patented product design in this category. 

She is both the engineer and the authentic spokesperson, making her the true voice of the self watering planter movement.

Leading through competition with innovation and grit

In a crowded market where heavy advertising dominates, Kay chose a different path. She focused on B2B partnerships, offering custom logo self watering planters for universities and corporations.

Collaborations lifted sales and spread awareness, with each bulk order helping the B2C market grow.

Kay says: “We are building a brand people will remember. Our slogan has never changed: Water once a month.”

Kay’s advice for founders and plant parents

Kay distilled her journey into three core lessons:

• Listen to the market: Gather feedback and keep improving the self watering planter so it truly solves plant care challenges. The slogan has never changed: “Water once a month.”

• Meet consumers where they are: Whether on YouTube, Instagram, or through newsletters, speak in their language and share stories not just product features — so people connect with the value of self watering planters.

• Know and preserve your uniqueness: Respect competitors, but never lose sight of what makes Posie Pots different. The patented one-piece design and the real founder story are advantages that keep the brand competitive.

Key benefits of Posie Pots self watering planter

• Only water once a month — stress-free care

• Holds 10x more water than traditional pots

• Patented one-piece 3D-printed design — durable and leak-free

• Reduces pests and root rot

• Made from eco-friendly, corn-based material

• Fits all plant types, from beginners to experts

• Available in multiple sizes and colors

• B2B logo customization for corporate gifting and universities

Ready to Let Your Plants Thrive?

Plant care doesn’t need to be stressful. With Posie Pots self-watering planters, you give your plants steady hydration, healthier roots, and the freedom to grow—while you enjoy watering just once a month.

👉 Shop Posie Pots today and bring home the planter that waters itself.

👉 Claim your first self-watering planter today with Posie Pots—use code WELCOME10 at checkout for $10 off