ORTO Self Watering Planter Box 120 x 42 x 60cm

Material: Rescued/ Salvaged Cypress Macrocarpa

Outside Dimensions: L 120 x W 42 x H 60cm (plus allow 5cm for the overflow pipe on one end)

Max Soil Depth = 30cm

Soil / potting mix required = 4 of 30L bags

Please note the feet option is 5cm lower than castors.

Orto self-watering planter boxes include an internal wicking bed that feeds your plants water from below. You don't need to be an experienced gardener or have perfect soil conditions to grow your own fresh healthy herbs and vegies. Orto is a closed system that can be placed on any surface with a enough sunlight. You simply fill the water reservoir as required and harvest food as it grows.

The water reservoir and overflow system mean you cannot over water your plants by mistake. Don't stress if you have to go away for a week in summer — your plants will be fed water from below and be ready to harvest when you get back. In extreme heat, you may need to top up your wicking beds, but otherwise, they'll be well taken care of!

Inside the reservoir, we use an agi-pipe (a perforated pipe covered with a sock to enhance capillary action) and scoria. These components are included even if you choose not to purchase potting mix from us.

Wicking beds are increasingly popular for urban veggie gardens because they save 50% water usage and optimise growth by providing exactly the right amount of soil moisture in the root zone. Orto wicking beds include a reservoir level checker and overflow pipe so that you cannot overwater your plants. You can see the wicking process explained more thoroughly in our FAQ section.

One of the key advantages of Cypress Macrocarpa is its natural rot resistance. Unlike other timbers that require treatment with toxic chemicals or preservatives, Cypress Macrocarpa’s natural properties protect it from decay. This makes it a safer and more environmentally friendly option for outdoor use, especially in gardens and spaces where chemical leaching is a concern.

The Cypress Macrocarpa that we use is sustainably sourced from salvaged or rescued timber, including windfall and senescent trees, as well as wood repurposed from low-value outcomes like burning or landfill. It is processed at a small, family-run mill in the Gippsland area, reducing waste and transportation emissions while supporting local businesses.

Orto planter boxes are hand made in Footscray at our co-operative workshop. You are welcome to come and see us at work or alternatively, check out the functioning Orto boxes in some of Melbourne's most delicious fresh food conscious cafes. 

Choose between timber feet or castors for no charge. Castors are suitable for hard flat surfaces ie. timber decks, pavers or concrete. On softer surfaces like grass or gravel driveways, timber feet are recommended. Please choose which suits you best.

Delivery charge is from $59 per order based on your distance from Melbourne CBD. Pick up for free is also available from Footscray.

Supplied or shipped fully assembled and ready for you to add your plants.

Do you ship interstate? Yes, we do ship interstate, please call us for a quote based on your location. Please note it is much cheaper if we can book your delivery to a factory, warehouse or depot. These deliveries cost approx $99 each and are normally trouble free, we then charge a packaging fee of $49 per garden box. It becomes more costly if we deliver to a home address and need to book a truck with a tail lift. Drivers do not advise exactly what time they will arrive so it can cause everyone a lot of stress if you are waiting at home for your delivery.