Clay pebbles or hydroton (sometimes referred to as LECA—light expanded clay aggregate) are a hydroponic substrate with units about the size of marbles or peanuts. Clay pebbles can be used in both hydroponic and aquaponic systems
USES
- Hydrotons are great water absorbers, it collects the excess water and stores it for later use.
- It prevents roots from being damaged due to excess water.
- Generally, clay pebbles are used as a base layer or alongside to help plants get the proper amount of water and air through it
- Clay can be used on its own for growing plants
- It can also be mixed with soil and other growing media.
- Hydroton is used widely in hydroponics and aquaponics.
HOW TO USE
- Rinse the pebbles thoroughly before using
- Soak the pebbles for at least six hours or, even better, up to 24 hours.
- Remove the plants and rinse occasionally.
- Add a small amount of nutrients after rinsing your pebbles.
Give starting your seeds a try using clay pebbles. You can crush the medium to increase saturation or you can keep them whole, use small net pots, and cover the seed with a couple of pebbles.
- Don’t reuse the pebbles without rinsing, soaking, and sterilizing with isopropyl alcohol or peroxide.
- Don’t let the pebbles dry out.
- Don’t use a regular pot unless you have a dedicated water source. Using regular pots can sometimes lead to algae and draining issues.
- Don’t use the pebbles as a substitute for soil outdoors.
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