MX_POTT (EXPERIMENTAL)

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That is where the Canna-Cup 2026 takes place, where we compare results, share experiences, and continue improving projects like this together.

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MX_POTT

Experimental Auto-/Drain-/Air-Pot with optional SCROG potential

Description

The MX_POTT was created specifically for our Canna-Cup 2026.

It is an experimental design that combines ideas from an AutoPot-style watering system, drainage, and an Air-Pot inspired structure. It also offers optional SCROG potential.

Even though this model is still a prototype, it has already been tested successfully. So far, the automatic watering function has performed better than expected.

This project is for people who enjoy trying new ideas, testing functional 3D prints, and improving designs through practical use.

Please note that this is not a finished plug-and-play product. It is a working prototype for users who do not mind a bit of fitting, sealing, and testing.

A full guide will not be published here on Printables. This page only covers the most important basics. For help, updates, or troubleshooting, please contact me on Discord.

Prototype notes

A few details are still not fully refined yet:

• the drain hose currently needs to be glued into its holder

• the drain nozzle should also be sealed with glue

• the bowl should be waterproofed

• not every part is fully optimized yet

The current bowl is also still quite large for many printers. I am already working on a more printer-friendly version, most likely with a rectangular bowl, but I cannot guarantee that it will be ready in time for the Canna-Cup.

Another planned improvement is a protective cage for the floats to prevent dirt from getting underneath them.

Features

• experimental AutoPot-style watering concept

• drainage integration

• Air-Pot inspired design

• optional SCROG potential

• top watering compatible

• includes Airdomes

• six cross-shaped wick openings

• float-controlled water level system

• designed for further development and community testing

Printing notes

Floats

The floats should be printed in PETG.

Recommended:

• print them slowly

• print them rather warm

• aim for a dense outer surface

This helps reduce water absorption. If needed, the floats can also be treated with sealant.

Bowl and water path

The bowl should be coated with a waterproof sealant. The same applies to the water inlet.

A simple method is:

• fill the inlet channel with sealant

• let it sit for a while

• blow it out afterwards

This helps seal the inside of the channel as well.

Drain area

At the current prototype stage:

• the drain hose must be glued into place

• the drain nozzle should be sealed with glue

Important note

3D-printed parts are rarely fully waterproof.

For that reason, I strongly recommend placing the complete setup on an additional tray or water-catching base, especially during the first tests.

Assembly notes

Airdomes and wick openings

The MX_POTT is designed for top watering and includes Airdomes.

These can also be installed upside down and used as a kind of base support for the pot.

There are also six cross-shaped wick openings. If you use the automatic watering system, make sure the wicks do not interfere with the floats.

Valve membrane

The valve uses a flexible rubber membrane made from a piece of balloon.

Other elastic rubber-like materials may also work, but in my testing the smooth outer side of a balloon worked best.

Assembly:

1. place a piece of balloon over the pointed end of the screw

2. press the clamping ring into place

3. trim away the excess material

I used a hammer to press the ring in, which worked well.

If needed, add a tiny drop of glue, but make sure no glue touches the membrane.

Float assembly

For the float assembly:

• insert short heated pieces of filament into the holes of the float arm

• push the floats onto the pins

• cut the filament just above them

• carefully melt and flatten the ends to hold them in place

If the floats start absorbing water, the buoyant part can also be replaced with styrofoam or similar lightweight material.

Water supply

In the rear section of the bowl, install:

• an M6 heat-set insert

• a PTFE fitting

A thin PTFE tube OD 4mm is fully sufficient for the water supply.

In my own test, I placed the PTFE tube into a water bottle, primed it, and connected it to the fitting. Water immediately started flowing into the bowl, and shortly afterwards the float rose and stopped the flow as intended.

Initial adjustment

When setting up the valve, make sure the membrane is never perforated by the water outlet.

Start by turning the adjustment screw down until it just barely touches the outlet.

When gently lifting the floats:

• there should be almost no play

• you should mainly feel the resistance of the rubber membrane

From there, adjust the water level step by step and observe the system carefully.

Final note

The MX_POTT is an experimental project, and that is exactly the point:

test it, improve it, adapt it, and share your results with the community.