Dynamic Dripper Flow Calculator
Set your starting drip rate to see how long your reservoir will last and how the flow slows over time.
Why does the drip rate slow down?
It's all about water pressure. Your Dynamic Dripper is gravity-fed — the drip rate is driven by the weight of water pressing down on the valve. When the reservoir is full, that pressure is at its highest and drops fall fastest. As the reservoir empties, there is less water above the valve, pressure decreases, and the drops slow down.
The physics behind it. This follows Torricelli's law: flow rate through a valve is proportional to the square root of the water height above it. This means the drip rate decreases in a straight line — not all at once, but steadily and predictably from the moment you start.
How to read this chart. The blue line shows your actual drip rate over time — it starts at your chosen rate when the reservoir is full, and falls steadily to zero as the reservoir empties. The dashed line shows what a constant average rate would look like. Your plant gets more water in the first hours and days, and less toward the end.
How to set your drip rate. Count the seconds between drops using the stopwatch on your phone. If you will be away for 7 days, start with about 1 drop every 6 seconds when full. Check on it after a few hours and make micro-adjustments to the flow knob as needed. The drip rate will continue to slow even after any adjustment — this is normal for all gravity-fed drippers.
Tip: Set a slightly faster starting rate than you think you need. Because the flow front-loads water delivery, your plant will receive more water early — which is fine for most houseplants.
Treat this as an estimate. Actual performance varies with plant size, pot size, ambient temperature, airflow, soil mix, and how firmly the spike is seated in the soil. Refill when empty or when your plant shows signs of thirst.
How to Set Up Your Dynamic Dripper
Take a few minutes to read through the instructions below and learn how to set up your Dynamic Dripper for long-term watering while you are away. It can take a bit of time and patience to find your ideal drip rate, but it will be a fun, rewarding process. Select each step below to read the full instructions.
Setup Steps
Select an image to read the instructions for that step.
Tips for Best Results
Count the Seconds
Use your phone's stopwatch to count seconds between drips. This is your drip rate — the key to dialling in how long your water will last.
Drip Rate Will Slow
The drip rate decreases as the reservoir empties — less water means less pressure. This is normal for all gravity-fed drippers.
Needs Adjustment?
If dripping stops, unscrew the flow knob, remove the pin, and reset the o-ring. Refer to the valve configuration diagram in the box for guidance.
Monitor Before You Leave
Run the dripper for the amount of time you'll be away before leaving, to confirm the flow rate meets your plant's needs.
Video Guides
Setup guides, demos, and plant care tips.