How to Use Hydrotones AKA LECA Balls for Rooting Cuttings: Step-by-Step Guide

Using LECA balls or Hydrotones (Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate) for rooting plant cuttings is an effective and low-maintenance method that ensures healthy root development. Whether you're propagating houseplants, herbs, or succulents, LECA provides the ideal balance of moisture and aeration for cuttings to thrive without the risk of root rot. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use LECA for rooting cuttings:

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need:

• LECA balls (well-rinsed and soaked)
• A cutting from your plant (with a node for rooting)
• A clear container or pot (preferably a glass container without drainage holes )
• Water (filtered or tap water left out for 24 hours)
• Optional: Hydroponic nutrient solution (for faster growth)

Step 2: Prepare the LECA Balls

LECA balls need to be rinsed and soaked before use. Here’s how to prepare them:

• Rinse thoroughly: LECA balls often come with dust or debris, so rinse them under running water until the water runs clear
• Soak the LECA: After rinsing, soak the LECA balls in water for at least 24 hours. This allows them to absorb moisture and prevents them from drying out too quickly once your cutting is placed

Step 3: Prepare Your Plant Cutting

Take a healthy cutting from the plant you want to propagate. Be sure it includes at least one node, which is the part of the stem where roots will grow. Remove any lower leaves to expose the node, and make sure the cutting is about 4-6 inches long.

Step 4: Set Up Your Container

Place a layer of pre-soaked LECA balls at the bottom of your pot or container. If you’re using a jar or glass with no drainage, be cautious with the amount of water you add later.

Step 5: Place the Cutting in LECA

Position the cutting so that the node is touching the LECA balls. Gradually fill the container with more LECA balls, supporting the cutting while keeping the node submerged but not fully buried. The LECA should hold the cutting securely in place while allowing airflow around the stem.

Step 6: Add Water

Pour water into the container, just enough to cover the bottom layer of LECA balls. The water should not reach the cutting directly but instead allow the LECA to wick moisture up to the plant. If you’re using a container without drainage, make sure the water level is low enough that the roots won't sit directly in it.

Step 7: Maintain and Monitor

Place the container in a warm, bright area with indirect light. Keep an eye on the water level, adding more as needed to maintain moisture in the LECA. The cuttings will start developing roots in a few weeks. Be patient, as some plants may root faster than others.

• Optional: For faster root growth, add a hydroponic nutrient solution to the water after a few weeks, once the cutting has started developing roots.

Step 8: Transplant (Optional)

Once your cutting has developed a strong root system, you can choose to leave it in the LECA for a semi-hydroponic setup or transfer it to soil. If you decide to transplant, rinse the roots gently to remove any LECA before placing the plant into a pot with potting mix.

Benefits of Rooting Cuttings in LECA

• Prevents overwatering: LECA’s porous structure keeps roots from sitting in water, preventing root rot.
• Great aeration: LECA allows airflow around the roots, promoting healthy root growth.
• Reusability: LECA can be rinsed, sterilized, and reused, making it an eco-friendly option.
• Cleaner than soil: No messy soil to deal with and fewer chances of attracting pests like fungus gnats.

By following these simple steps, you can successfully root your plant cuttings in LECA, offering a clean, efficient, and reliable way to propagate your plants. This method is proven to be 100% effective when proper care is taken, and all steps are followed correctly. You can often see results in as little as 5-6 days. For example, when my mini Coleus plant was disturbed during repotting, I took a broken twig, removed the lower leaves, and placed it just 1 inch above the water level in a LECA medium inside a glass container. To my surprise, it developed roots within just three days!

🪴🪴Happy Gardening 🪴🪴