Olla (pronounced oya) terracotta clay pots are a watering system that have been used for thousands of years. They are a very easy-to-use tool that allow for a more hands-off approach to watering your plants.
To use, the clay pot is buried with only the top neck appearing above the soil line, and then filled with water. The porous material of the olla releases water as the soil that surrounds it dries out - as well as the roots of your plants next to it. Olla irrigation is most efficient for crops with fibrous root systems like squash, melons, watermelons, tomatoes, and chiles. It is also possible to use ollas with crops with relatively shallow root systems like lettuce and herbs.
- Place ollas at least every 2-3 feet in your garden for maximum impact.
- Check the water level frequently, and refill the olla as needed.
- Cork your olla to prevent evaporation and stop mosquitos from entering.
- Remember to dig the ollas up when the gardening season ends & weather cools in the fall - as they may crack in a hard freeze.
Available in 2 Liter & 4 Liter sizes.
