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Growing Home - Olla Irrigation

In arid western Colorado, ancient wisdom helps modern gardens. Olla irrigation – “olla” meaning clay pot – is an old Spanish technique where an unglazed pot is buried up to its neck near plants and filled with water. Moisture seeps slowly through the porous clay to thirsty roots. This conservation method can save 60-70% of water versus traditional watering. The soil draws water as needed, giving plants a “just right” drink with minimal evaporation. It’s a low-tech trick that our dry gardens can drink to