How to Water Leca Plants
LECA (Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate) is a type of hydroponic growing medium that is commonly used for plants. It is an excellent medium for hydroponic gardening since it provides excellent drainage, excellent water retention, and it’s reusable. When it comes to watering your plants that are grown in LECA, it is important to do it correctly to achieve the best results. In this article, we’ll discuss how to water LECA plants properly, so let’s get started!
Step 1: Fill the Reservoir
The first thing you should do is fill the reservoir with water. You can use tap water or distilled water. If you opt to use tap water, make sure to let it sit for 24 hours so that any chlorine or other chemicals can dissipate. Once the reservoir is filled, allow it to reach room temperature, then check the pH of the water. The pH level should be between 5.5 and 6.5.
Step 2: Check the Moisture Level of the LECA
Before watering your plants, you should check the moisture level of the LECA. You can do this by sticking your finger in the LECA to check if it’s dry or moist. If it’s dry, then it’s time to water your plants.
Step 3: Add Water to the Reservoir
To add water to the reservoir, you can use a watering can or a hose. It’s important not to overwater your plants since this can cause the roots to rot. A good rule of thumb is to water your plants once a week or when the LECA is dry.
Step 4: Drain the Excess Water
LECA has excellent drainage, but it’s still necessary to drain the excess water from the reservoir. To do this, you can use a pump or a siphon to remove the excess water. If you notice that there’s still water in the reservoir, then you should wait for it to drain completely.
Step 5: Keep an Eye on Your Plants
It’s important to keep an eye on your plants to ensure that they’re getting enough water. You can check the moisture level of the LECA regularly to ensure that your plants aren’t underwatered or overwatered. If your plants are underwatered, then you should water them more frequently. If they’re overwatered, then you should reduce the amount of water you’re adding to the reservoir.
Conclusion
Watering LECA plants isn’t rocket science, but it does require a little bit of extra attention. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your plants are getting the right amount of water and are thriving. Remember to check the moisture level of the LECA regularly, add water to the reservoir once a week, and drain the excess water. With a little bit of care, your LECA plants will grow healthy and strong!