The problem
Enter any deep plant nerd space such as the Reddit threads, and you’ll find Leca. Hardcore followers cite positives to growing plants in these clay balls, such as fewer pests and watering mistakes, and faster growth. Switching from soil to semi-hydro is tempting, but does it actually make life easier?
The hack
Leca stands for lightweight expanded clay aggregate. Unlike soil, it is inert and doesn’t feed the plant. Its job is to hold moisture and air around the roots, while you provide everything else via a diluted fertiliser solution. Water sits at the bottom of the pot, and the clay wicks it upwards, keeping the root zone evenly damp.
The method
Rinse new Leca thoroughly to remove dust, then soak it before use. I would use it with plants that enjoy consistent moisture, such as pothos, philodendron or peace lilies. Find a tall pot or vase without drainage holes, fill with Leca and top up with water and low-concentration feed. Add your plant with the roots above the waterline, not submerged. Flush through with water every few weeks to avoid salt buildup.
The test
I moved a rooted cutting from a monstera into Leca. The plant grew strong roots and healthy foliage, with no sign of pests.
The verdict
Leca is surprisingly easy to use, with great results, and can also make a plant more decorative. It isn’t a magic shortcut, but it’s great for pest-prone collections and water-loving plants. Am I going to repot all my plants in Leca? No. But for propagated stems or plants struggling with pests, I would make the switch.
