Build your own olla watering system today and give your garden a smarter, low-effort way to stay hydrated while saving water and time.

This easy watering system has been used for over 2000 years.  You can buy unglazed terracotta pots purpose built for this laidback watering system or you can DYI.

Use two unglazed terracotta pots with saucers.  Fill the drainage hole in the base with ‘Knead It’ or silicon, to seal pot. Being terracotta, the water will slowly seep out. Cover the base with a waterproof paint, in this case Steri-prune tree dressing. This is an extra layer of protection in case the bung hole leaks, plus it holds a small amount of water in the bottom.

Once water proofed at the bottom, bury the pot in the garden and fill it with water.  The saucers are used as a lid to stop evaporation, dirt or pests getting in. They are perfect for vegetable gardens or newly planted plants.  They do need to be refilled two to three times a week. Depending on where you read more about this process, ollas will cover about half a metre of garden.