What is LECA?
LECA stands for Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate. It’s a soil-free, reusable growing medium made by heating natural clay into hard, porous balls. These clay pebbles soak up water and slowly release it back to the plant’s roots—creating a consistent moisture environment with excellent airflow.
LECA is a clean, low-maintenance alternative to soil, especially popular in semi-hydroponics, self-watering pots, and terrariums.
 
Why Use LECA?
Great for Semi-Hydro & Self-Watering Pots
LECA wicks water up from a reservoir, giving your plants a steady moisture supply without root rot.
Prevents Compaction
Stays loose and breathable—no soggy or dense soil here.
Reusable & Sterile
Just rinse and reuse! Long-lasting and cost-effective.
Pest-Resistant
No organic material = fewer fungus gnats.
Terrarium Friendly
Makes an excellent base layer in terrariums and closed glass containers (like "hulds"), helping prevent waterlogging and keeping roots healthy.
 
LECA in Terrariums & Hulds
LECA is a popular choice for the bottom drainage layer in closed terrariums or sealed glass containers (sometimes called "hulds"). Here’s why it works so well:
Catches excess water from overwatering or humidity condensation
Prevents root rot by keeping plant roots above standing water
Improves airflow in humid, enclosed environments
Helps maintain a stable humidity level as the balls slowly release moisture into the air
In most terrariums, a layer of LECA goes first, followed by a barrier (like mesh or cloth) and then soil or substrate. In semi-hydro hulds, you can even grow directly in LECA!
 
LECA Size Guide – Which Size to Use?
We stock three sizes to suit different setups:
 
2–4 mm LECA (Fine Grade)
Tiny, close-packed pebbles
Best for propagation, small pots, or mini terrariums
Retains water well and gives tight root contact
 
6–9 mm LECA (Standard Grade)
The go-to choice for houseplants, self-watering pots, and medium-sized terrariums
Balances moisture retention and airflow
 
9–16 mm LECA (Chunky Grade)
Large and ultra-aerated
Ideal for big containers, airy drainage layers, or large plants prone to overwatering
 
Not sure which to pick?
Go 2–4 mm for tiny roots, tiny spaces, or seed starting
Go 6–9 mm for general use
Go 9–16 mm when you want more airflow or have bigger vessels