SM-90 was always my triple whammy acting as a surfactant/wetting agent as well as rootzone critter protection AND overall plant health for 20 yrs of consistent useage......I thought coco wicked very well making larger pots no problem - even with a 1/4 or 2 open ended line only hitting on spot? I've experienced what you all are talking about with water traveling through the pot, but only when allowed to over dry.
I do know that products containing Yucca Extract can help with that as it acts as a natural wetting agent.
Have yet to try a basket stake or any other dripper. I've thought 360 degree shrubblers cause I like the fact that they're adjustable
View Image
I'm getting pretty good results with what I'm using but never to old to learn new tricks.
Maybe next run I'll hook up the shrubblers.