How to Make Ollas From Clay Pots

Are you looking to create a sustainable and efficient watering system for your garden? Are you tired of constantly watering your plants with a hose or sprinkler? Look no further because this blog post will show you how to make Ollas from clay pots. Ollas are unglazed clay pots that have been used for centuries as an irrigation method by various cultures worldwide. 

They are buried near plant roots and release water slowly, keeping the soil moist for extended periods. Not only is this easy DIY project cost-effective, but it also promotes water conservation and decreases work on your end. So grab some clay pots, and let’s get started!

Necessary Items

Before we dive into the steps, let’s gather all of the necessary items you will need to make your own Ollas:

• Clay pots (preferably unglazed)
• Silicone caulk
• Sandpaper
• Water-based sealant

10 Steps on How to Make Ollas From Clay Pots

Step 1: Prepare the Clay Pots

The first step to making Ollas is preparing the clay pots. If the clay pots have any glaze, sand it off using a sandpaper. This is important because you want the bank to be unglazed to properly release water into the soil.

Step 2: Seal the Holes

Next, seal any holes or drainage areas on the clay pots with silicone caulk. This will prevent the water from leaking out of the pool too quickly and will ensure a slow and steady release of water into the soil.

Step 3: Dry the Pots

Allow the silicone caulk to dry completely before moving on to the next step. This may take a few hours, so be patient. You can also use a hair dryer on low heat to speed up the drying process.

Step 4: Apply Sealant

Once the silicone caulk is dry, apply a water-based sealant to the inside and outside of the clay pot. This will further prevent any water from escaping too quickly and help prolong the life of your Ollas.

Step 5: Repeat for Extra Pots

If you want to create multiple Olla pots, repeat Steps 1-4 for each bank. The number of jars you need will depend on the size and layout of your garden.

Step 6: Bury the Pots

Dig holes in your garden where you want to place the Ollas. Ensure they are deep enough to bury the pot entirely, leaving only the rim above ground.

Step 7: Place Pots in Holes

Place the sealed and prepared clay pots into the holes you dug.

Step 8: Add Plants

Now it’s time to add your plants! Plant them around the Olla pots, ensuring their roots will be near the pool once they grow. This will ensure that they receive a steady water supply as they grow.

Step 9: Fill with Water

Fill each Olla pot with water. The water will slowly seep through the unglazed clay and into the surrounding soil, keeping it moist for days.

Step 10: Refill as Needed

Check the water level in your Ollas every few days and refill as needed. This will vary depending on the temperature and humidity levels, but you may only need to refill them once or twice a week.

Making Ollas from clay pots is a simple yet effective way to improve garden irrigation. Not only does it save time and effort, but it also promotes water conservation. So why not give it a try and see the benefits for yourself?

8 Additional Tips and Tricks

1) Use Large Clay Pots

Consider using larger clay pots to hold more water and cover a wider area for more extensive gardens or regions. You can also use multiple Ollas in one place for more watering coverage.

2) Experiment with Different Soils

Different soils may have different water retention abilities, so feel free to experiment and see which works best for your plants.  You can also adjust the placement and number of Ollas accordingly.

3) Paint or Decorate Your Pots

Get creative and paint or decorate your clay pots before sealing them. This will add a personal touch to your garden and make identifying which banks are Ollas more accessible.

4) Use Ollas for Container Gardening

Ollas can also be used for container gardening. Simply bury the pot in the center of the container and plant around it. This is an excellent option for those with limited space or who live in apartments.

5) Try Different Spacing

Depending on the size of your garden and plants, you may need to experiment with different spacing between Ollas. Some plants may require more water than others, so adjust accordingly.

6) Use Mulch

Adding mulch around the basins of your Ollas can help retain moisture and keep the soil even more hydrated.

7) Make Your Clay Pots

If you feel extra crafty, you can make your clay pots using air-dry or firing them in a kiln. This will give you complete control over the size and shape of your Ollas.

8) Monitor for Clogs

Check your Ollas regularly for any clogs or debris blocking the water flow. This can happen over time, especially if you have hard water, so keeping an eye on them is essential.

8 Things to Avoid

1) Using Glazed Pots

As mentioned earlier, glazed pots will not work for Ollas as the glaze prevents water from being absorbed into the clay.

2) Skipping the Sealing Step

Sealing your pots is crucial in ensuring a slow and steady release of water. Skipping this step can result in water leaking out too quickly or the banks deteriorating faster.

3) Overfilling Ollas

Be careful not to overfill your Ollas, as this can cause excess water to pool on the soil’s surface. This can attract pests and lead to root rot in plants.

4) Not Refilling Regularly

While Ollas are designed to provide a slow release of water, it’s essential to check and refill them regularly to ensure your plants get enough hydration.

5) Planting Too Close

Be mindful of how close you plant your plants to the Ollas. If they are too close, their roots may grow into the pots and potentially clog them.

6) Using Non-Water Based Sealant

Avoid using oil-based or toxic sealants, which can leach into the soil and harm your plants. Stick to water-based adhesives to ensure the safety and health of your garden.

7) Burying Pots Too Shallow

Make sure to bury the pots deep enough so that only the rim is above ground. If they are buried too shallow, water may evaporate too quickly and defeat the purpose of using Ollas.

8) Not Monitoring for Cracks

Check your Ollas regularly for any cracks or damage affecting their effectiveness. Replace them if necessary to ensure proper water flow and conservation.  Overall, making Ollas from clay pots is a simple and cost-effective method of irrigation that can significantly benefit your garden. With these tips and tricks, you can easily create and maintain your Ollas system to help your plants thrive. So try it and see the difference it can make in your gardening experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Will the Water in an Olla Last?

The water in an Olla can last for several days or even up to a week, depending on the temperature and humidity levels. It’s essential to check and refill the Ollas as needed regularly.

Can I Use Glazed Pots?

No, it is not recommended to use glazed pots for Ollas. The glaze will prevent the water from adequately seeping through the clay and into the soil.

Are Ollas Suitable for All Types of Plants?

Ollas are suitable for most plants but may not work well for plants requiring very dry or wet soil. Researching your specific plant’s watering needs before using Ollas is best.

How Do I Store Ollas During the Winter?

If you live in an area with cold winters, properly storing your Ollas during the colder months is essential. Remove any remaining water and store the Ollas in a cool, dry place until spring.

Are There Any Other Benefits of Using Ollas?

Aside from being cost-effective and promoting water conservation, using Ollas can also help prevent overwatering and reduce the time spent watering your plants. It’s also an excellent option for those who may be on vacation and need a reliable plant watering system.  So, don’t hesitate to try making your own Ollas and see the benefits for yourself! 

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether you are a gardener or simply looking to incorporate more sustainable practices into your daily life, making ollas from clay pots is a simple and effective way to conserve water and improve plant growth. By following these steps on how to make ollas from clay pots outlined in this blog post, you can easily create your ollas and start enjoying the benefits they provide. So why not give it a try?

Plus, not only will you reduce your water consumption and help the environment, but you’ll also have a unique and beautiful addition to your garden. As we’ve learned today, the process is rewarding and easy on the wallet. So get your hands dirty and let those creative juices flow as you craft your olla from clay pots.