Buried Clay Irrigation Pots
Buried clay pot irrigation is a super efficient method for saving water and time in your garden. This ancient technique has been used across the world for centuries, with its origins documented in China over 2,000 years ago by agronomist Fan Shengzhi. Known as "ollas" or "oyas," these irrigation pots have also been a longstanding practice in the Americas, providing a sustainable watering solution in dry climates.
Benefits of Buried Clay Pot Irrigation
Conserve Water: Reduce evaporation and overwatering, using up to 90% less water compared to traditional watering methods.
Save Time: Fill pots less often, with intervals of up to three weeks between fillings, even during dry seasons.
Maintain Moisture While Away: Keep plants hydrated during vacations without worry.
Reduce Weeds and Disease: Avoid surface watering, which encourages weed growth and fungal infections.
Boost Germination and Growth: Ensure consistent moisture for healthy root development.
Control Pests: Minimize the damp environments that attract slugs and snails, and easily locate and remove them when they gather around the pots.
How Irrigation Pots Work
Porous ceramic pots are buried with their openings exposed above the soil. Water gradually seeps through the walls of the pots, directly hydrating the roots and soil over several days, lasting up to two weeks. This method is one of the most efficient in water conservation, up to ten times more effective than surface irrigation and even surpassing drip irrigation. For an automated system, irrigation lines can be attached to the pots for easier refilling.
Where to Use Irrigation Pots
Irrigation pots are versatile and can be used in farms, gardens, restoration sites, and for plant propagation. They are effective for a variety of plants including vegetables, berries, trees, and shrubs, especially those with horizontal root systems. This technique ensures a consistent and regulated water supply directly to the root zone.
How to Install
Bury the pots as deep as possible, leaving an inch or two of the pot exposed above the soil. Prepare the soil thoroughly and add any amendments needed within the effective watering area. Cover the surface with straw or mulch to prevent evaporation. For best results, ensure the soil is fully moist before using the pot to allow proper water absorption. If the soil dries out, re-wet it thoroughly when refilling the pots.
How to Plant Around Irrigation Pots
Plant seeds within a few inches of the pot and provide top watering until they germinate. Starts can be planted further out, but keep enough space for easy access to refill the pots when plants are mature. For trees, the pots can be removed once the roots are established, though over many years, tree roots may grow strong enough to crack the pots.
Selecting the Right Pot Size
In average soil conditions, our large irrigation pots cover areas up to 36 inches in diameter or containers of up to 40 gallons. Medium pots are suitable for similar coverage but work better in shallower containers. Small and mini pots are ideal for smaller containers or focused irrigation. The effective radius may vary based on soil composition, with sandier soils offering a smaller range and clay-heavy soils providing greater coverage.
Feeding Tips
We recommend only using water in the pots. Adding fertilizers or plant food can be unpredictable, so it's best to apply nutrients directly to the soil. If calcium or minerals build up on the pots, soak them in vinegar and scrub gently. Over time, pots may develop natural discoloration from minerals, algae, or moss, which won’t affect their performance.
Freezing Weather Considerations
In regions with long winters or hard freezes, it's safest to remove and empty the pots to prevent damage from expanding frozen water. Alternatively, you can leave the pots in the ground and cover them with straw or another insulating material for protection.
Our Irrigation Pots vs. DIY Options
Our irrigation pots are professionally crafted to last and offer consistent performance. Handmade in California with U.S.-sourced materials, they support the local economy and community through collaborations with businesses, organizations, and educational projects. We also provide discounts and donations to increase access to education and food.
Compared to DIY options, our irrigation pots are superior in durability, porosity, and design. Homemade alternatives, such as terra cotta pots or plastic bottles, often have issues with porosity, toxicity, durability, and heat absorption. Our pots are proportionally designed to optimize root growth, made with non-toxic white clay that remains cool in the sun, and feature optimal porosity for efficient watering.
