Leca is a lightweight expanded clay aggregate used in construction and horticulture. The product is made by heating clay to high temperatures and then expanding it with air. The resulting pellets are then cooled and screened to size. Can you Plant Succulents in Leca ? Leca has several advantages over other construction materials, including its lightweight, high strength, low absorbency, and resistance to freeze-thaw cycles.

Plants known as succulents are distinguished by their capacity to store water in their leaves. They are a common choice for people who want to give their homes a little greenery but have limited space. Many people wonder whether they can grow succulents in Leca because they need soil that drains well for them to thrive. The answer is that succulents can be grown in Leca.

I’ll cover the tips for planting succulents in Leca successfully and the advantages of doing so in this article. To find out more, continue reading.

Can You Plant Succulents In Leca Secrets to Successful

Can You Plant Succulents In Leca

If you’re looking for a unique and stylish way to spruce your home, look no further than succulents in Leca! Leca is a lightweight clay aggregate that is perfect for planting succulents. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Start by finding a suitable container for your plants. Make sure there are drainage holes in the bottom so excess water can drain.
  2. Leca should fill the container inside. Doing this will improve drainage and stop water from collecting around your plants.
  3. Choose your plants and arrange them how you want them in the container. Make sure there is enough space between each plant so that it has room to grow.
  4. When satisfied with the arrangement, add additional Leca to the area around the plants. The plants will be kept upright and shielded from water damage.
  5. Add a layer of fresh Leca every two weeks to keep the plants moist.
  6. Maintain the container in a sunny spot and give the plants regular waterings. Succulents are drought-resistant but need water to stay healthy and grow.
  7. Once your succulents have grown, you can transfer them to their pots or plant them in the ground. 

Now that you have all the knowledge required, you can start growing succulents in Leca.

The Best Types Of Succulents For Leca

types of succulents with pictures

Succulents of all kinds can be grown in Leca, but some of the best options are as follows:

Hawaiian Baby Woodrose

This succulent is easy to grow and will thrive in a sunny spot. It has long, thin green leaves and white on the bottom.

Anthuriums

These plants are easy to grow and come in various colors, including pink, yellow, and red. They have long stems that can grow to a height of two feet.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a popular succulent because it is tolerant of many soil conditions and has thick leaves that can protect the plant from frost damage. It also produces clusters of small flowers.

Echeveria

Echeveria is a succulent that is easy to propagate and can grow in various conditions. It has long, spindly stems and small, star-shaped leaves.

Sedum

Sedum plants are drought tolerant and come in various colors, including green, blue, and purple. They have small leaves that are feathery and rounded at the top.

Things You Need To Know When Planting Succulents In Leca

Succulents In Leca

There is a lot of misinformation about succulents out there. So before you plant your succulent in Leca, make sure you know the basics! Before planting succulents in Leca, keep in mind the following:

  • Succulents like well-drained soil. Please ensure the soil is moist but not soggy and has good drainage.
  • Succulents like indirect sunlight. If your succulent is growing indoors, place it in a position with plenty of indirect light (near a windowsill or east-facing window is ideal). If your succulent is outdoors, place it in an area with partial or full sun exposure.
  • Succulents like temperature range between 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit (10-21 degrees Celsius). Keep them away from cold drafts and heaters/ac units.
  • Succulents can withstand some drought conditions if watered sparingly but regularly; avoid watering them until the soil is soggy or they begin to wilt.
  • Succulent plants are generally easy to propagate. If you want to start a succulent from a corm, place the corm in the soil and water it well. If you want to start a new succulent from stem cuttings, take the stem cuttings about two inches long and place them in moist soil.
  • Succulent plants are generally easy to grow but may need some TLC (time, love, and attention).
  • Succulents can be multiplied by taking stem cuttings or dividing corms, but ensure to provide them with enough light and water during this process to prevent them from going extinct.

The Benefits Of Planting Succulents In Leca

growing aloe in leca

There are many benefits to planting succulents in Leca, including: 

  • Leca is a lightweight expanded clay aggregate often used as a medium for growing plants. Leca has many benefits for plant growth, including good drainage, aeration, and water retention. Additionally, it is simple to locate and reasonably priced.
  • The excellent drainage offered by Leca is one of the benefits of growing succulents there. That’s also critical because excessive moisture can cause root rot in succulent plants. Leca also helps to aerate the roots of your plants, which can improve overall growth.
  • Leca retains water well, which is an additional advantage. If you live somewhere with high temperatures and little rainfall, this might be useful. The water retention properties of Leca will help to keep your succulents hydrated during dry periods.
  • Finally, planting succulents in Leca can provide many other benefits, including improved air circulation and a change in the appearance of your landscaping. You can create a unique and beautiful garden by choosing plants that are well-suited to Leca.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Plant Succulents In Clay Pebbles?

Yes, you can plant succulents in clay pebbles. The clay pebbles help to aerate the roots and prevent the plant from becoming waterlogged. The clay pebbles also provide drainage and help to keep the plant’s roots cool.

Can Succulents Grow In Semi-hydroponics?

In semi-hydroponics, succulents can grow. They can withstand dry spells because they can store water in their leaves, stems, and roots. When grown in semi-hydroponics, succulents need less water than when grown in traditional hydroponics because the water is constantly being recycled.

How Long Should Leca Soak?

Leca should be soaked for at least 24 hours to ensure it is fully hydrated. Additionally, it is crucial to remember that Leca should be soaked in room-temperature water because using hot or cold water can cause nutrients from the media to reach out.

Can You Use Leca And Soil Together?

It depends on various factors, including the specific Leca and soil products used and the project’s desired outcomes. However, it is generally accepted that using Leca and soil together can be an effective way to create a planting medium that is both aerated and water-retentive.

How Often Do You Water A Leca Plant?

It is important to water a Leca plant regularly, approximately once every week. However, the watering frequency may vary depending on the plant’s size, pot size, and the climate. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so check the plant’s soil before watering to ensure it is dry.

In Closing

Planting succulents in LECA (Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate) is a viable and increasingly popular option for succulent enthusiasts. Succulents planted in LECA can thrive due to the excellent drainage and aeration that the medium provides, which helps prevent overwatering and root rot. Moreover, LECA is a reusable and sustainable medium that can save money and reduce environmental waste.

However, as with any planting method, there are some considerations to keep in mind when planting succulents in LECA, such as proper watering and fertilization. Overall, planting succulents in LECA can be a great way to experiment with new planting methods and enhance the health and beauty of your succulent collection.