Hi it’s good to see you are being transparent. Even though that situation didn’t work for you, you still have plants 🪴 that are bearing fruits. Do you grow marigolds and mint around your plants. I am new to gardening also and I have planted lots of marigolds, mints, and other herbs because they serve double purposes in the garden. Keep growing because your plants are looking green😊.

I tried to a small in-house wicking planter with a t-shirt and it didn't take long to deteriorate. Some people use polyester cords for their wicking material. I haven't done a wicking project yet but I did create a reservoir in my bell pepper bucket using a milk jug and water bottles.

I am sorry this happened to you but thank you for letting us learn from you.