The bottom line is yes.  However, it takes a few minutes of familiarizing yourself with the reservoir of water on the bottom, and how to ensure it is kept full. - Self-watering planters are comprised of four parts. A bed, potting soil, water reservoir, and a wicking system.  The soil sits on the bed and is where the plant grows. - There is water in the bottom of the planter, but it is not touching the bottom of the plant.  There is a "wick" that is submerged in the water and goes up into the soil about halfway up. - The wick soaks up water, and the water travels up the string and into the soil.  The plant roots take the water they need from the moist soil, and when the soil begins to lose its moisture, the wick wets it again. This way, the soil is always moist, and the roots of the plant can always get moisture. - Your job is to watch the level of water in the glass, and when it gets to be too low for that container, make sure you fill it up again. There is an article for making your own self-watering container at the Urban Organic Gardener.