My Secret for Keeping Thirsty Plants Watered Is On Sale for Under $10 Right Now

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My green thumb is a work in progress, and one of the biggest personal challenges is the watering. I’ve read all of the dos and don’ts for watering plants, and I try to incorporate as many tips into my process—when I remember to do it in the first place. This season, one product made all of the difference for my garden: an olla pot. On an average day, it’s a reasonably priced garden accessory. And right now, the Back to the Roots Olla Pot is just over $8 on Amazon—a no-brainer.

The classic design of this garden accessory has kept plants alive for more than 4,000 years in drier climates than my own backyard in New York. Once buried in the soil and filled with water, the porous terracotta surface will slowly release water to the roots of your thirsty plants. Each Back to the Roots pot holds 700 mL, which can support up to two large plants within an 18-inch diameter of the water source. Just refill every couple of days, and recork to prevent evaporation. A full olla pot should hold you over if you forget to water daily, or plan to take a weekend away this summer.

And these aren’t just for garden beds. I’ve buried mine in two containers, one pot with a drainage hole and another made of a breathable fabric. They may be the only reason that my hydrangeas and tomato plants are thriving, so I give this product two green thumbs up.

 

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We’ll help you set up your first garden—whether that’s a few pots on your patio, a raised bed, or an in-ground plot out back—and select the right plants for your soil and region.