Salutations,
This simple system below was essentially trouble-free to me, especially for window-sill applications (at 1st):
http://oi54.tinypic.com/2cwv9qv.jpg
After all only some light customization proved necessary to enhance convenience and functionality a great deal:
http://oi51.tinypic.com/110wqx5.jpg
This front hole actually allowed easy access (to verify water level) in the bottom tank while it also evacuated excess water during refills (…), also providing an air layer located right below the cultivation cavity in order for soil water to dissolve more oxygen, apparently…
http://oi53.tinypic.com/oa2fdt.jpg
We can see through the front filling/maintenance hole which resulted from my drilling that tank water migrated into the upper cultivation cavity via a capilary effect exploited in its 4 internal supportive hollow legs, equally filled with soil. Excess water promptly droppped into the reservoir down under, which helped to prevent soaking roots as in ordinary buckets.
Now here’s yet another newbie experiment, this time using an open indoors concept complemented by external cooling, which during cold seasons was practically free: i just needed to partically open a window…
Pay attention to the soil topping which was intended to keep its surface dry and practically free of all foreign life…
http://oi39.tinypic.com/jaeu60.jpg
(2012-Apr-21)
Illumination did cause me to thinker though potting did not: i only had to empty those buckets once water started to turn redish, otherwise that was maintenance free (besides watering, of course).
Good day, have fun!! 