When I returned from a two week vacation to visit my kids, the lavender plant on my balcony was looking very thirsty around the base. I had hoped my household caretaker would have watered the plant sufficiently in my absence, but this didn’t happen. So how could I prevent this from happening the next time I would be away and have stress relief holidays instead of stressful ones?
Now you may have a housekeeper, or someone who takes care of your living space while you’re away. If that’s the case, and that person is doing a good job for you, you’re all set. But, if like me, that person doesn’t quite live up to your epectations, this teaching may have some relevance for you.
It turns out there is a technology that goes back thousands of years that can solve this problem for you, at least the watering part.
An ancient solution to a modern problem.
Ancient documentation from various cultures spread across several continents proves that clay pot irrigation has been one of the most successful, long-lasting irrigation methods ever. Chinese texts that are well over 2000 years old mention clay pot irrigation. The Romans used these and called them ollas. Olla irrigation can be found in the Middle East, India, and Central and South America. It’s clear that olla irrigation is wildly successful across the planet. So how does it work?
What is the science behind clay pot irrigation?
Very simply put, ollas slowly leak water and feed the plants. However, the process is a lot more delicate and refined than that. Ollas are made of low-fire and unglazed clay; as a result, they are porous. The olla wall is filled with minuscule holes that allow a liquid, like water to slowly move through the wall of the olla
Water from the olla travels several inches away from the olla due to seepage. The water crawls along until there is no more water to spread. Plant roots naturally sense the moisture and grow in the direction of the olla.
Because this process occurs below the surface, evaporation and run off are not an issue as in other systems.
Ollas rely on natural forces to function, which makes them both simple and ideal. Thousands of years ago, humans were using the same scientific principles to water their crops. Maintaining this tradition will ensure that water is conserved and used efficiently to sustain life.
You can apply this science to your stress relief garden with the following guidebook.
Check out the Green Thumb Formula Guidebook: How to create a self-watering garden.
This guide includes:
- Parts list
- Tool list
- Detailed instuctions
Normal price $99
Ordinarily, this guidebook is offered as part of our online workshop. But for now, we are offering it on its own at a rediculous discount.
Cupon Code for $96 Discount: TLGWS-3
Your price: $3.00
Discount expires August 31, 2023