Clay Balls / Leca

What are clay balls (LECA)?

Clay balls are kiln-fired expanded clay pellets that provide a stable, reusable growing medium for a wide range of plants. Their porous structure holds moisture while allowing plenty of oxygen to reach the root zone, making them a popular choice for hydroponics, semi-hydro growing and container gardening.

Known as LECA, hydroton or clay pebbles, this versatile media supports strong root development by helping prevent compaction and encouraging excellent drainage.

Benefits of LECA and clay pebbles

• Excellent drainage and root-zone aeration.
• Helps reduce growing media compaction.
• Reusable when cleaned and prepared correctly.
• Suitable for hydroponic systems and semi-hydro houseplants.
• Can be used as a decorative top layer to help reduce moisture loss and soil disturbance.

How to choose the right clay balls

LECA is suitable for many different growing methods, with the best choice depending on your setup.

• Hydroponic systems: Ideal for flood and drain, drip irrigation and other hydroponic applications.
• Semi-hydro growing: Popular for orchids, aroids and many indoor plants.
• Container gardening: Mix with other growing media or use as a drainage layer where appropriate.
• Propagation: Suitable for encouraging healthy root development in selected cuttings and young plants.

Tips for using LECA successfully

• Rinse clay balls thoroughly before first use to remove dust.
• Soak LECA before planting if recommended for your growing method.
• Use a quality hydroponic nutrient solution when growing without soil.
• Clean and sterilise clay balls before reusing them between crops.
• Monitor moisture levels to suit your plants and growing system.

Shop clay balls and LECA at Dr Greenthumbs

Browse our Clay Balls (LECA) collection to find quality clay pebbles for hydroponics, semi-hydro setups and indoor plants. Whether you're building a new hydroponic system or upgrading your favourite houseplants, you'll find reliable growing media to support healthy roots and vigorous plant growth.