What plants grow best in leca balls?
What plants are good to grow in Leca? Plant families often grown in Leca include Monstera, Sansevieria, ZZ Plants, Alocasia, Spider Plants, Syngonium, Orchid and Begonia. The Pitfalls of LECA If the plants have sturdy roots and come from an airy soil mix, they are easier to switch, while plants with finer roots may have trouble adapting. Also, larger plants may not grow to their maximum size if planted in LECA and may have trouble supporting themselves.LECA: LECA is much more durable and structurally robust than perlite or vermiculite, making it suitable for load-bearing applications. It is commonly used as a lightweight aggregate in concrete blocks, precast panels, and even foundation materials.Combining super coarse perlite and pre-washed LECA in semi-hydroponics yields several advantages. First, the blend maximizes aeration and drainage, preventing root rot and other fungal diseases that often plague traditional soil-based gardening.
Why are my plants rotting in LECA?
One of the reasons cleaning roots is so important is because any dirt that is in contact with the roots will cause excess moisture in the LECA environment and can cause root rot. Leca doesn’t compact or decompose like potting mix, so you don’t need to replace it every few years like you do potting mix. Some people pot up every few weeks! I don’t think it’s needed, plus disrupting the roots that often isn’t ideal for the plant either.Flushing LECA plants You’ll need to flush your LECA plants on a monthly basis. Minerals will build up over time around the plant roots and LECA and could mess up the way your plant absorbs water and nutrients. To flush the LECA, simply hold the plant and net pot under running water for a few minutes.Leca can be reused over and over and when using it for your plants you just need to rinse it or flush it at least once a month to clean off the mineral build up from water and nutrients.Prep leca Soak, rinse, and soak the leca balls. Soak the leca balls for one hour, rinse the leca balls in a colander to let the excess dust and residue fall through, then soak the leca in water for 6 hours. Rinse the leca balls through a colander once more prior to using the leca with your plants.Leca can be reused over and over and when using it for your plants you just need to rinse it or flush it at least once a month to clean off the mineral build up from water and nutrients. Forever 🫶 It’s doesn’t degradate like other substrates.