Plants cannot grow in LECA (lightweight expanded clay aggregate) forever. While LECA is a reusable growing medium, it does not provide plants with a continuous source of nutrients. Over time, the nutrients in the LECA become depleted, and the plant’s growth and health will be negatively affected if the nutrients are not replenished.
LECA is a popular alternative to traditional soil in hydroponic and indoor gardening setups. It is lightweight, porous, and provides good aeration for plant roots. LECA is made by heating clay pellets to expand them, creating air pockets that allow for drainage and root growth.
However, LECA itself is an inert material, meaning it does not contain any nutrients for plants. It primarily serves as a support structure for the roots and provides a stable environment for plants to grow.
When plants are grown in LECA, they rely on a nutrient solution to provide essential elements for their growth. This solution is typically added to the water that is fed to the plants, ensuring they receive the necessary nutrients. However, over time, the plant will consume these nutrients, and the solution will need to be replenished.
In my personal experience, I have grown plants in LECA for extended periods of time, but I always had to monitor their nutrient levels and regularly replenish the nutrient solution. If the nutrient solution is not refreshed, the plants will become nutrient deficient, leading to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and overall poor health.
To maintain the health of plants grown in LECA, it is essential to periodically flush the growing medium to remove any built-up salts or residues that can accumulate over time. Flushing the LECA with clean water helps prevent nutrient imbalances and ensures that the roots have access to the necessary oxygen.
Additionally, it is important to regularly check the pH level of the nutrient solution. LECA has a neutral pH, but the nutrient solution may become acidic or alkaline over time. Adjustments to the pH may be necessary to maintain optimal nutrient uptake by the plants.
While LECA is a reusable growing medium, plants cannot grow in it indefinitely without nutrient supplementation. Over time, the nutrients in LECA become depleted, and the plant’s growth and health will be negatively affected. Regular monitoring of nutrient levels and replenishment of the nutrient solution are necessary to ensure the plants thrive in LECA.