DIY Self-Watering Terracotta Ollas: A Step-by-Step Guide for Thrifty Gardeners

In this blog, I’ll show you exactly how to make a DIY self-watering olla a time tested, low tech irrigation method that keeps your plants perfectly hydrated with minimal effort.

Why Terracotta Ollas Are Perfect for Lazy (or Busy) Gardeners

Before we dive into the DIY steps, let’s recap why ollas are amazing:
✔ Saves water (up to 70% less waste than sprinklers)
✔ Prevents over/underwatering (self-regulating)
✔ No electricity or fancy parts needed
✔ Ideal for vacations or forgetful plant parents

Materials You’ll Need

✅ Two terracotta pots (same size, 6"-12" diameter) – The bigger the pot, the longer it lasts between refills
✅ Terracotta saucer or waterproof sealant (like silicone or epoxy) – To plug the drainage hole
✅ Sandpaper (optional) – For smoothing rough edges
✅ A rock or bottle cap – To cover the top opening

Total cost? Under $10 if you reuse old pots!

Step-by-Step DIY Olla Instructions

Step 1: Seal the Drainage Hole

• Take one pot and cover the hole at the bottom.

• Option A: Use a terracotta saucer glued with waterproof sealant.

• Option B: Plug it with silicone or epoxy (let it dry completely).

Why? This prevents water from leaking too fast.

Step 2: Connect the Two Pots

• Place the sealed pot upside down on top of the second pot (open ends together).

• If needed, use a little sealant to bond them for extra security.

Pro Tip: Sand rough edges for a snug fit.

Step 3: Bury Your Olla in the Garden

• Dig a hole deep enough to bury the joined pots up to the rim.

• Place it near your plants’ root zones (6-12" away for best results).

• Fill the olla with water and cover the top (to prevent evaporation & mosquitoes).

How Often Should You Refill?

🔹 Small ollas (6") – Every 3-5 days
🔹 Large ollas (10"+) – Every 1-2 weeks
Depends on soil type, heat, and plant thirst!

Best Plants for DIY Ollas

🌿 Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers (love consistent moisture)
🌱 Lettuce, spinach, herbs (avoid drying out)
🌸 Flowers like marigolds & zinnias (bloom better with steady water)

Avoid: Cacti & succulents (they prefer dry spells).

Bonus Hack: Turn a Wine Bottle into a Mini Olla!

Don’t have terracotta pots? Try this:

1. Take an empty wine bottle.

2. Fill it with water and quickly invert it into the soil.

3. The slow drip mimics an olla’s effect!

Final Thoughts

DIY terracotta ollas are cheap, easy, and incredibly efficient whether you’re growing veggies, herbs, or flowers. Give it a try and say goodbye to wilted plants!

Have you made an olla before? Share your tips in the comments!