The Felt Store Watering Mat locks in extra moisture and will slowly release water when the soil starts to dry, which means less water waste and less care on your end. It is made from a non -woven polyester fiber which allows it to absorb the extra water and distribute it evenly after you water your plants. The watering mat helps to keep the soil moisturized longer. How to use: Put 1" inch (25.4mm) of soil at the bottom of the planter/pot. Cut the watering mat ½" (12.7mm) to 2" (50.8mm) smaller than the size of the planter/pot and insert it inside the planter/pot. Pour in just enough water to moisten the Watering Mat and then continue to plant as you normally would. The Watering Mat should be 1" (25.4mm) to 2" (50.8mm) below the roots of the plant. For the first two weeks, monitor your plants closely to see how often you will need to water as the size and type of plant affects the length of time in between waterings. For planters/pots larger than 20" (508mm) please use a second layer of matting and allow more space in between the Watering Mat and the roots of the plant. For plants that are already in planters/pots, just lay the Watering Mat flat in a plastic tray, soak the Watering Mat in water and place the planters/pots on top. Measuring 12 inches (304.8mm) by 36 inches (914.4mm) by 13/64 Inch (5mm) thick, our Watering Mat can easily be cut down to fit any size or shape planter/pot. For larger projects, please search for Kapmat in Industrial and Technical Materials.Please note: This product is intended to be used in horizontal applications and is not intended to wick water.