Olla irrigation

An olla irrigation is an ancient irrigation technique used in many regions of the world, especially in dry areas. The term "olla" comes from the Spanish and means "clay pot". In this irrigation method, a clay pot is dug into the ground and filled with water. The water then slowly seeps through the porous walls of the clay pot into the soil and provides water to the plants near the pot.
An olla irrigation system is a simple and effective way to water plants and save water. It is not only suitable for dry areas where water is scarce and watering plants is a challenge, but can also be used in hot and dry European summers. Olla irrigation delivers water specifically to the roots of the plants and does not evaporate as quickly as conventional watering methods such as sprinklers or watering cans. This saves water and reduces the amount of watering required.

Here is a construction guide for an Olla irrigation system:

Materials:

• 2 clay pots, unglazed clay pots with a hole in the bottom in 2 sizes (The smaller pot should fit upside down in the other so that the rim disappears just slightly into the larger pot).
• Wax (e.g. beeswax) or cement
• Tile shard, clay shard or flat Stone

Step-by-step instructions:
1. if you want to use wax, melt it in a water bath or mix the cement according to instructions.
2. close the hole in the bottom of the larger pot by sticking a stone, tile shard or clay shard over the hole and sealing it.
3. now place the smaller pot, upside down with the hole facing upwards, in the large one. The crack between the edges of the pot is also sealed with the wax or the material you are using.
4. Let everything dry well.
5. now you can bury the pot where you need it. It is important not to bury it completely. Leave about 3-4 cm protruding from the soil.
6. Fill the pot with water until it is full. Leave the pot for a few hours so that the water is distributed in the soil and the clay can soak up water completely.
7. Fill the pot with water regularly when the water in it runs out. The water will then slowly seep out of the clay and water the plants.

With these simple building instructions you can build an effective olla watering system for your plants. You can also use several clay pots of different sizes to water different plants and planters.