Introduction

LECA (Light Expanded Clay Aggregate) is an excellent alternative for traditional soil when it comes to potting indoor plants. Aside from the fact that it is lightweight, it also provides great drainage, and it can retain moisture. Potting plants in LECA is relatively simple, and it could be a fun and rewarding experience. In this article, we will take you through step by step on how to pot plants in LECA.

Materials needed

Before we get started, there are some essential materials you will need. Here is a list of items you will need:

LECA

A plant (preferably a houseplant such as pothos, monsteras, or snake plants)

A pot with a drainage hole

A saucer

Water

Fertilizer

Potting plants in LECA

Here are the steps on how to pot plants in LECA:

Prepare the pot: Preparing the pot is the first step in every potting process. Clean the pot and the saucer, and fill the bottom of the pot with some LECA, about a couple of inches high.

Water the LECA: After filling the pot with the LECA, pour water into the pot until the water level reaches the top of the LECA. Let the LECA soak for about an hour or two, allowing the LECA to absorb the water fully.

Plant the plant: After the LECA has absorbed the water, take the plant out of its current pot and place it into the pot with LECA. Be sure to position the plant, so it sits upright, and the roots are covered. Fill the pot with LECA, making sure that it is level with the base of the plant's stem.

Add water to the pot: With the plant positioned, add water to the pot until the water level reaches the top of the LECA. Always make sure that the plant's roots are not submerged in the water.

Place the pot in a saucer: After adding water to the pot, place the pot in a saucer to catch any excess water that drains out of the pot.

Fertilize the plant: After potting the plant in LECA, it is essential to fertilize the plant to provide it with the necessary nutrients it needs. Follow the fertilizer's instruction and mix it with the water that you will use to water the plant.

Advantages of potting plants in LECA

Potting plants in LECA provides a lot of advantages. Here are some of the key advantages:

Lightweight: LECA is very light, which makes it easier to handle compared to soil. It is perfect for people who have mobility issues.

Drainage: LECA provides great drainage, which is essential in maintaining the good health of plants.

Retains moisture: LECA can retain moisture, which means plants are less likely to dry out.

Good aeration: LECA provides good aeration for plant roots, which allows the roots to grow healthier and stronger.

Reusable: LECA is reusable, which means you can reuse it for the next potting cycle.

Conclusion

Potting plants in LECA is a great way to provide plants with an excellent medium to grow in. The process might be unfamiliar, but it is relatively easy to do. The advantages that LECA provides are well worth the effort. We hope that this article has provided you with helpful information on how to pot plants in LECA. Happy potting!