How to Water Plants in LECA

LECA, or Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate, is a popular growing medium for plants that provides excellent drainage, aeration, and root growth. While using LECA has many benefits, knowing how to water plants in LECA is crucial to ensure their health and growth. In this article, we will discuss the best ways to water plants in LECA and provide tips on maintaining plant health.

Watering Frequency

One of the most important factors in watering plants grown in LECA is the frequency of watering. Since LECA is a highly porous medium, it does not hold water very well. Therefore, it is essential to water plants more frequently than those grown in soil. As a general rule, watering your plants every two to three days is recommended. However, the frequency of watering will vary depending on your plant's specific needs, the size of the pot, and the humidity and temperature of your growing environment.

Watering Method

When it comes to watering plants in LECA, there are several methods you can use. One common method is to simply pour water into the top of the pot until the water runs out of the bottom drainage holes. This method ensures that the LECA is thoroughly saturated with water. Another option is to add a layer of water at the bottom of the pot and let the LECA soak it up. This method allows the roots of your plant to have access to water constantly. However, be careful not to overwater your plants, as too much water can lead to root rot.

Water Quality

Water quality is also essential when it comes to watering plants in LECA. Since LECA is a hydroponic growing medium, plants are entirely dependent on the water they receive. Therefore, it's crucial to use clean, pH-balanced water. If the water you use is too alkaline or acidic, it can harm your plant's roots, causing stunted growth or even death. It's recommended to use reverse osmosis or distilled water in your LECA growing setup. If you have no access to such water, you can use tap water, but you may need to adjust for pH depending on the location.

Drainage

Good drainage is another critical aspect of watering plants in LECA. Since LECA is highly porous, it does not hold water well and can easily become waterlogged. Therefore, it's essential to ensure that your pot has adequate drainage holes at the bottom. This will allow excess water to drain out, preventing stagnant water from accumulating in the pot. To prevent any blockages, you can place a layer of gravel or perlite at the bottom of the pot before adding the LECA.

Monitoring Your Plants

Lastly, monitoring your plants regularly is essential to ensure their health and growth. Check your plants' soil moisture level with a moisture meter or by touching the LECA. If the LECA is dry and there is no moisture present, it's time to water your plants. If the LECA is still moist, hold off on watering until the moisture level decreases. Additionally, check your plants for signs of under or overwatering, including discolored or wilting leaves, yellowing or dried out roots and growth stagnation.

In conclusion, watering plants in LECA can be easy and beneficial for your plants. By following these tips, you can ensure that your plants are properly watered and have a healthy growing environment. Remember to water your plants frequently, use clean water, ensure good drainage, and monitor your plants regularly, and you'll soon be enjoying healthy, thriving plants in your LECA setup.