The ancient clay pot watering method that uses up to 70% less water during a hosepipe ban

Discover why gardeners are returning to ollas - the ancient clay pots that slowly water plant roots, saving water while keeping gardens healthier for longer

All too often, we swap tried-and-tested techniques for newer alternatives that seem more convenient. But with hotter, drier summers and hosepipe bans becoming more common, some of the smartest gardening solutions are proving to be the oldest. One method that's sustainable, inexpensive, remarkably efficient and should be a garden staple (in our opinion) is the olla (pronounced oh-yah) – an unglazed, surprisingly stylish clay pot buried beneath the soil with only the neck or lid above the surface for filling.

It slowly releases moisture into the surrounding soil, keeping plants hydrated. 'By delivering water directly to the roots, ollas help keep moisture where it's needed most, reducing evaporation and using up to 70 per cent less water than traditional watering methods,' says Matthew Dickinson, head of garden centres (North) at the RHS. Why ollas are so effective Perhaps the beauty of this product lies in just how little it asks of you.

'Because the clay is porous, moisture slowly seeps out into the surrounding soil. The process is remarkably simple, but it's stood the test of time for a reason,' says Luke Newnes, gardening expert at Hillarys. Guy Barter, RHS chief horticulturalist, says: 'An olla is a clever way to water plants as it responds to the conditions around it.

When the surrounding soil is dry, moisture moves through the clay into the soil, but when the soil is already moist, very little water is released. Plant roots naturally grow towards this reliable