Introduction
The Lechuza Rondo 40 is a self-watering tall planter designed for indoor use, providing optimal conditions for your plants. Its integrated watering system ensures a consistent and needs-based water supply, simplifying plant care. This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Lechuza Rondo 40 planter.
The planter features a high-quality, lacquered matte surface and a robust, shatterproof, and 100% recyclable plastic construction. It includes the original Lechuza watering system, a removable plant insert with retractable handles, and Lechuza-Pon plant substrate for drainage.
1. Setup
1.1 Unpacking and Component Identification
Carefully unpack all components from the packaging. Ensure all parts are present and undamaged.
Figure 1: All components of the Lechuza Rondo 40 planter, including the outer planter, plant liner, self-watering system, and Lechuza-Pon substrate.
The package typically includes:
- Outer planter (Rondo 40)
- Removable plant insert with retractable handle frame
- Lechuza self-watering system (separator base, water level indicator, filling shaft)
- Lechuza-Pon plant substrate (drainage layer)
1.2 Assembling the Self-Watering System
Follow these steps to assemble the self-watering system within the plant insert:
- Place the separator base at the bottom of the plant insert. Ensure it fits securely.
- Insert the filling shaft into the designated opening in the separator base.
- Attach the water level indicator to the filling shaft.
- Distribute the Lechuza-Pon plant substrate evenly over the separator base to create a drainage layer.
Figure 2: Diagram of the self-watering system. Key components include the water level indicator, filling shaft for water and fertilizer, water reservoir below the separator base, overflow screw for draining excess water, and the LECHUZA-PON layer for water distribution.
1.3 Planting
After assembling the self-watering system:
- Place your plant, along with its root ball, directly onto the Lechuza-Pon layer within the plant insert.
- Fill the remaining space in the plant insert with your preferred potting soil or additional Lechuza-Pon substrate, ensuring the plant is stable.
- Do not fill the water reservoir immediately after planting. For the first 12 weeks, water your plant from above as usual. This allows the roots to grow into the moist Lechuza-Pon layer and reach the water reservoir.
2. Operating the Self-Watering System
2.1 Initial Watering Phase (First 12 Weeks)
During the first 12 weeks after planting, the self-watering system is not yet fully active. Water your plant directly onto the soil surface as you normally would. This encourages the plant's roots to grow downwards into the Lechuza-Pon layer and establish contact with the water reservoir.
2.2 Activating the Self-Watering System
After approximately 12 weeks, once the roots have grown sufficiently, you can begin using the self-watering feature:
- Fill the water reservoir through the filling shaft until the water level indicator reaches the "MAX" mark.
- The plant will now draw water as needed from the reservoir.
- Monitor the water level indicator. When it drops to the "MIN" mark, the reservoir is empty. Allow a "dry phase" of a few days (the duration depends on the plant type and environmental conditions) before refilling the reservoir. This dry phase helps prevent root rot and encourages healthy root development.
- Refill the reservoir when the indicator shows "MIN" and after the dry phase.
2.3 Fertilization
Liquid fertilizer can be added directly into the filling shaft along with the water, following the fertilizer manufacturer's instructions. The self-watering system will distribute the nutrients evenly to the plant.
3. Maintenance
3.1 Cleaning the Planter
The Lechuza Rondo 40 planter can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the matte surface. The plant insert can be removed for easier cleaning or repotting.
3.2 Long-Term Care
- Repotting: When your plant outgrows its current space, the removable plant insert makes repotting easier. Simply lift the insert using its retractable handles.
- Water Quality: Use clean water to prevent mineral buildup in the reservoir and on the water level indicator.
- UV Resistance: The planter is UV resistant, ensuring its color and material integrity are maintained over time, even when exposed to sunlight.
- Waterproof: The planter is waterproof, protecting your floors and surfaces from water damage.
4. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Water level indicator not moving | Indicator stuck, or reservoir is completely empty/full. | Gently tap the indicator. Ensure the reservoir is filled or emptied correctly. Check for obstructions in the filling shaft. |
| Plant appears overwatered (yellowing leaves, soft stems) | No dry phase observed, or roots have not yet grown into the reservoir. | Ensure a dry phase is allowed between refills. If newly planted, continue top-watering for 12 weeks. Check for proper drainage. |
| Plant appears underwatered (wilting, dry leaves) | Reservoir empty for too long, or roots have not reached the reservoir. | Refill the reservoir. If newly planted, ensure consistent top-watering during the initial 12 weeks. |
| Water not draining from overflow screw | Overflow screw is blocked or not properly installed. | Ensure the overflow screw is clear of debris and correctly seated. |
5. Specifications
Figure 3: Detailed dimensions and capacities for the Lechuza Rondo 40 planter.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 15745 |
| Material | High-quality Plastic (100% recyclable) |
| Color | Matt Black |
| Dimensions (Diameter x Height) | 40 cm (15.75 in) x 75 cm (29.53 in) |
| Plant Insert Diameter | 33.5 cm |
| Plant Volume | 22 Liters |
| Water Storage Capacity | 5.6 Liters |
| Special Features | UV Resistant, Waterproof, Self-Watering System, Removable Plant Insert |
| Indoor/Outdoor Usage | Indoor |
| Included Components | Planter, watering system, Lechuza-Pon substrate, plant insert |
| Manufacturer | geobra-Brandstätter Stiftung & Co. KG |
6. Warranty Information
This Lechuza Rondo 40 planter is covered by the manufacturer's standard warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Please refer to the warranty documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official Lechuza website for detailed terms and conditions. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
7. Customer Support
For further assistance, technical support, or inquiries regarding your Lechuza Rondo 40 planter, please contact Lechuza customer service. Contact information can typically be found on the official Lechuza website or in the packaging materials. When contacting support, please have your model number (15745) and purchase details ready.
You can visit the Lechuza Store for more information: Lechuza Official Store