The olla watering pot is a buried clay container designed to deliver water directly to plant roots...The olla watering pot is a buried clay container designed to deliver water directly to plant roots. Once filled, it releases moisture slowly through the porous clay, giving plants consistent hydration while minimising surface evaporation. This system saves water and helps plants thrive with less frequent watering. The 2 litre olla watering pot is ideal for larger planters, raised beds, vegetable gardens and garden borders. Its narrow, deep design encourages roots to grow deeper and stronger, helping plants cope better in dry periods and keeping soil moisture balanced naturally. This olla watering pot system can cut water usage by up to 70% compared to traditional watering. Simply bury near the plant root zone and refill every few days depending on conditions. The pot is 28.5cm high with a 13.5cm diameter.
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Product Information
Full details
The Gardening Naturally Olla Watering Pot is perfect for gardeners looking to minimize water waste and promote stronger root development in raised beds, vegetable gardens, and large planters. By using an ancient, porous clay vessel design, this tool delivers consistent, deep-soil irrigation that can reduce water usage by up to 70% compared to surface watering. While highly efficient, it requires manual refilling every few days and a small amount of installation effort to bury the unit near the root zone.
All features
Model Part Number
OLA2
Brand
Gardening Naturally
Extended Product Information
FAQs
How often should I refill the Olla?
This depends on the soil type, temperature, and plant needs. Typically, every few days is standard.
Can I use fertilizer in the water?
It is not recommended, as fertilizer can clog the pores of the clay and potentially damage the material over time.
Should I bury the entire pot?
No, leave the neck or opening exposed above the soil surface so you can easily refill it.
Is the clay fragile?
Yes, it is a natural porous clay, so handle it with care to avoid cracking during installation or storage.
Can I leave it in the ground over winter?
If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, it is best to remove it to prevent the clay from cracking.
Troubleshooting
Water is not draining into the soil
Ensure the soil is in direct contact with the exterior of the clay pot. If the soil is too loose, the water will stay inside.
Water level stays high for too long
This may indicate the surrounding soil is already saturated. Wait until the soil dries out before refilling.
Debris getting inside the pot
Always ensure the opening is properly covered with a lid or a small stone to prevent soil and insects from entering.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Significantly reduces water consumption
Prevents surface evaporation
Promotes healthy, deep root systems
Easy to use in raised beds and gardens
Helps plants thrive during dry spells
Cons
Requires manual refilling every few days
Must be buried in the soil for effective operation
Not suitable for shallow pots under 13.5cm diameter
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Installation: Dig a hole near your plant's root zone deep enough to accommodate the pot. Place the Olla inside and fill the surrounding area with soil, leaving the opening exposed.
Filling: Pour water into the pot and cover the opening to prevent debris and evaporation. Check the water level every 3-4 days initially to understand how quickly your specific soil conditions require a refill.
Compatibility: The 2L size is best suited for raised beds, borders, and larger pots. Smaller models are available for compact containers.
Winter Care: In climates prone to freezing, it is recommended to remove the Olla from the soil before the first frost, as the water inside could freeze and crack the clay.