I still haven't figured out how it's self watering and the instructions don't explain it but the item looks great! It has 2 compartments. It has drain holes and some other things (in picture) that look to flow water, but still not sure what they do. I will be filling it soon and will write back on how it works. Videos on self watering planters will come in handy. I gave it 4 stars because it doesn't show how it works.