How to Grow Monstera in Leca Balls: Transferring a Monstera Plant to Leca from Soil

Wanna know if you can grow monstera in leca balls? The short answer is yes, but it is not as easy as snake plants. Leca, which stands for Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate, is a growing medium made of clay that is heated and then expanded. It has become a popular alternative to soil due to its many benefits.

One of the main benefits of using Leca balls for growing Monstera is that it provides excellent drainage. This is essential for Monstera plants as they do not like to sit in waterlogged soil. Leca balls also provide aeration to the roots, which promotes healthy growth. Additionally, Leca balls are reusable and can be sterilized, making them an eco-friendly option for those looking to reduce waste.

In this article, I will guide you through the process of growing Monstera in Leca balls. I will cover everything from choosing the right size and type of Leca balls to watering and fertilizing your plant. Whether you are a seasoned plant parent or a beginner, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to successfully grow your Monstera in Leca balls.

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Understanding LECA Balls First

What Are LECA Balls?

LECA stands for Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate. These are small balls made of clay that have been heated to a high temperature, which causes them to expand and become porous. LECA balls are commonly used in hydroponic gardening as a growing medium. They are also used in soil mixes to improve drainage and aeration.

Benefits of Using LECA for Monstera

When it comes to growing Monstera, LECA balls offer several benefits. First, they provide excellent drainage, which is crucial for preventing root rot. The porous nature of LECA balls also allows for better aeration, which helps roots grow healthy and strong.

Another benefit of using LECA balls is that they are pH-neutral, which means they won’t affect the pH of your soil or nutrient solution. This is important because Monstera plants prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5.

LECA balls are also reusable, making them an environmentally friendly option. Simply rinse them off and sterilize them before using them again.

Overall, using LECA balls as a growing medium for your Monstera plant can help promote healthy growth and prevent common issues like root rot. Plus, they are pH-neutral and reusable, making them a sustainable option for your indoor garden.

Preparing for Planting

Rooting in Water First

Before planting your monstera in leca balls, you may want to consider rooting the plant in water first. This can help the plant establish strong roots and ensure its survival. To do this, simply cut the roots of your monstera and place it in a jar of water. Change the water every few days and wait for new water roots to form. Once the roots are a few inches long, you can transfer the plant to a pot of leca balls.

Gathering Supplies

To prepare for planting your monstera in leca balls, you will need a few supplies. First, you will need a container to hold your leca balls. This can be a pot or any other container. I prefer clear glass jars without holes for a closed-system method of using leca balls, but you can also use pots with drainage for an open-system method. You will also need leca balls, which can be found at most garden centers or online.

Planting Monstera in LECA

Transitioning from Soil to LECA

Making the switch from soil to LECA can be intimidating, but it’s worth it for the benefits it provides. Before you begin, make sure your Monstera is healthy and free of pests. It’s also important to note that the transition process can take a few weeks to a few months, depending on the plant’s size and health.

To start, gently remove the Monstera from its soil and gently shake off any excess soil. You may need to use a hose or showerhead to rinse the roots gently. Then, cut off any dead or damaged roots and trim the remaining roots. Place the plant in a jar of water to let it develop water roots, as this step will ensure that the roots won’t rot after transferring to leca.

After a few weeks, once the water roots are at least 3 inches long you can now transfer the plant to leca. Fill the bottom of your LECA container with a layer of LECA balls. Place your Monstera on top of the LECA layer, making sure the new roots are evenly spread out. Fill the container with LECA balls, making sure to leave some space at the top for watering.

At first, your Monstera may experience some shock as it adjusts to the new growing medium. Be patient and monitor your plant closely during this time. It’s important to water your Monstera regularly during this transition period, but be careful not to overwater as LECA balls can hold onto moisture for longer periods of time than soil.

Leca Planting Techniques

As mentioned in this post, there are two methods of using leca balls for houseplants – open and closed system. In open system, the pot filled with leca balls has drainage holes. The water exits the pot quickly upon watering and the leca balls retain moisture for root nourishment. In closed-system, there are no drainage holes. The pot is filled with water at around 1-2 inch level and the water evaporates upwards to the roots.

Whichever planting technique you choose, remember to monitor your Monstera closely during the transition period and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. With patience and care, your Monstera will thrive in its new LECA environment.

Monstera Care in LECA

Watering and Humidity

When growing Monstera in LECA balls, it’s important to maintain the right level of moisture. You should aim to keep the LECA balls moist at all times, but not too wet. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to your plant. To prevent this, water your Monstera when the top inch of the LECA balls feels dry to the touch.

Humidity is also important for Monstera plants. They thrive in high humidity environments, so it’s recommended to keep the humidity level between 60-80%. You can achieve this by misting your plant regularly, placing a humidifier nearby, or by placing a tray of water near the plant.

Nutrient Supply

LECA balls are a great medium for growing Monstera as they provide excellent aeration and drainage. However, they don’t contain any nutrients. To ensure your Monstera is getting the nutrients it needs, you should fertilize it every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer. During the dormant season (fall and winter), fertilize less frequently or not at all.

Light and Temperature Requirements

Monstera plants prefer bright, indirect light. They can tolerate some direct sunlight but too much can scorch their leaves. Place your Monstera near a window with filtered light or use a sheer curtain to filter the direct sunlight.

Monstera plants also prefer warm temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C). Avoid placing your plant in drafty areas or near air conditioning vents.

By following these simple care instructions, your Monstera should thrive in LECA balls. Happy growing!