AutoPot FlexiPot XL, 1 pot without reservoir (Aquavalve5)

Product detailed description

AutoPot FlexiPot XL without reservoir - 1 fabric pot, no daily watering

Would you like to expand your existing XL setup with another position, or choose the reservoir yourself? AutoPot FlexiPot XL combines the proven 1Pot XL module with a 20 l FlexiPot fabric pot and serves one plant. The reservoir is not included - this version is ideal for growers who already have the distribution system installed or want to choose the reservoir capacity themselves. Its compact dimensions and portability also reduce transport costs and save storage space. It is suitable for herbs, vegetables, mature shrubs and trees, both indoors and outdoors.

How it waters - gravity only

Each pot is served by its own AQUAvalve5 valve with 9 mm distribution tubing. Once connected to a reservoir, the valve automatically opens the inlet and allows the tray to fill with water to a preset level - using gravity alone, without a pump, electricity or timer. Until the plant has used the water in the tray, the valve does not release another dose. The plant therefore goes through a wet and dry cycle, which builds strong roots; once the tray is empty, the process repeats. You use no electricity at all and do not waste water.

20 l FlexiPot fabric pot - roots instead of circling branches

At the heart of the setup is the breathable FlexiPot 20 l fabric pot. When a root tip reaches the porous wall, the air air-prunes it - instead of circling around a plastic wall, the plant creates a rich, fibrous root ball that absorbs moisture and nutrients more effectively. This allows you to grow a larger plant in a smaller volume. The fabric is BPA- and lead-free, with no off-gassing or leaching, and unlike standard fabric pots, FlexiPot has a rigid base that keeps the plant upright. Its porosity also oxygenates the root zone. Bear in mind that exposed fabric evaporates water - several pots may slightly increase room humidity, so ensure adequate ventilation.

Recommended growing media

Always use a free-draining growing medium in the FlexiPot. The following 50% / 50% mixes have proven effective:

• 50% soil and 50% perlite
• 50% soil and 50% expanded clay
• 50% coco and 50% perlite
• 50% coco and 50% expanded clay
• 50% Rockwool and 50% expanded clay

If using expanded clay, rinse the pebbles first - some types are not pH-stable. Before placing the pot in the tray, clean any growing medium from its base and sides and ensure that the fabric does not touch the AQUAvalve5 valve; then fit the lid over the valve.

Reservoir setup and starting the system

The reservoir is not included in this version - connect it to the existing XL system or choose your own reservoir, such as a 47 l reservoir with lid or Flexitank. Whichever reservoir you choose, position it at least 150 mm above the highest AQUAvalve5 valve, refill it when it is approximately one-third full and never allow it to run completely dry. Plant up the pots, water them and allow the excess to drain away outside the tray; then let them root for 7-10 days before starting the system.

Mineral and organic fertilisers

Apply mineral and organic fertilisers through the reservoir and distribution system. Granular fertilisers for soil, such as Biotabs or Florganics, can be mixed directly into the growing medium - this is ideal for FlexiPot. With liquid organic fertilisers, add a water pump to the reservoir (running for 15 min every 2 h) to prevent nutrients from settling, and flush the distribution system and clean the reservoir, pump and filter whenever the reservoir is emptied. Mineral fertilisers provide the simplest, maintenance-free operation.

Valve and pot care

AQUAvalve5 is a simple yet precise device - keep the valve and tray clean and free from obstructions. At the end of the season, wash the valve in warm soapy water; an old toothbrush can help. Remove limescale from the nozzle with a paper clip or blow it out; never clean it with a drill - you would destroy the valve. FlexiPot is reusable: once emptied, allow it to dry, then shake or brush off dust and fine roots. You can sterilise it by washing it in a washing machine or in a bath with a peroxide solution. We recommend placing a copper PotSock Round XL on the bottom of the pot - it prevents roots from growing into the valve. If one component fails, there is no need to replace the entire system.

Package contents

• 1x 20 l fabric pot FlexiPot 20 l
• 1x tray & lid
• 1x irrigation pack (without reservoir)
• user manual

Distribution systems and tubing

The setup uses the 9 mm distribution system of the AQUAvalve5 generation:

• 9 mm tubing - outer diameter 9 mm / inner diameter 7 mm
• 16 mm tubing - outer diameter 16 mm / inner diameter 13 mm

In larger setups, a 16 mm main distribution line runs from the reservoir, with individual branches connected via a 16/9 mm reducer with filter.

Extensions and accessories

The system is modular and can be expanded with another position at any time: choose the 1Pot XL module or a separate 1Pot XL tray & lid and 1Pot XL pack for AQUAvalve5. Add a replacement pot as a FlexiPot 20 l, and find missing parts in the accessory box. This allows you to connect many pots to one reservoir. Find the complete range in the 1Pot XL and FlexiPot systems category, and the full brand range among AutoPot systems.

Which size to choose

This version serves 1 pot and does not include a reservoir. Want to get started straight away without sourcing a reservoir? Choose the FlexiPot XL for 1 pot with a 47 l reservoir. Need more positions? Continue to 2 pots without reservoir or 4 pots without reservoir. The system body is the same for all versions; they differ in the number of trays and whether a reservoir is included.

Frequently asked questions

What else do I need to buy for this version?

A reservoir, 9 mm golf filter and 9 mm tap. Either connect them to the existing XL distribution system or purchase a separate reservoir - position it at least 150 mm above the highest valve.

Does the 20 l FlexiPot fit in the same tray as the 25 l XL pot?

Yes. FlexiPot 20 l shares its dimensions with the 25 l 1Pot XL pot, so it uses the same round tray and lid. Just ensure that the fabric does not touch the valve.