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Discover the ultimate growing medium for healthier plants, better root aeration, and consistent moisture control. Our expanded clay pebbles, also known as LECA (Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate), are a professional-grade, reusable growing substrate designed for hydroponics, aquaponics, horticulture, and container gardening.
Whether youre nurturing delicate seedlings, supporting heavy fruiting crops, or keeping your prized indoor plants thriving, LECA offers a clean, pH-stable, and versatile solution that outperforms traditional soils in both performance and sustainability.
LECA stands for Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate small, rounded pellets made from 100% natural clay that is kiln-fired at high temperatures. This process causes the clay to expand, forming lightweight, porous balls with an incredibly strong structure.
These pores allow for excellent drainage, aeration, and moisture retention while preventing waterlogging and root rot.
Alternate names: Hydroton, clay balls, clay pellets, hydroponic pebbles, expanded clay aggregate.
We supply three size grades to suit different plants and growing methods, all in convenient 15L bags:
24mm Micro Pebbles
Ideal for seed starting, cuttings, and delicate root systems.
Works beautifully as a top dressing for moisture retention in small pots.
Great for aquaponics biofilters due to increased surface area for beneficial bacteria.
49mm Standard Pebbles
The most versatile, all-purpose size for general hydroponics, potted plants, and aquaponics.
Provides balanced water retention and aeration.
Suitable for orchids, houseplants, and leafy greens.
916mm Large Pebbles
Perfect for large hydroponic setups, deep beds, and heavy-rooting crops.
Excellent for stabilising large plants in net pots or deep water culture systems.
Ideal for drainage layers in pots and planters.
The unique porous structure ensures rapid water flow while retaining just enough moisture for roots to thrive. This eliminates waterlogging, one of the main causes of root rot and plant stress.
LECA creates natural air pockets around roots, delivering oxygen directly where its needed most. This helps promote faster, stronger root growth.
Clay pebbles are chemically inert, meaning they wont alter your nutrient solutions pH. Theyre safe for all plant types and will not break down over time.
Simply rinse and sterilise between uses. LECA lasts for years without compacting, making it an eco-friendly, cost-effective alternative to disposable growing media.
Unlike soil, LECA is dust-free, lightweight, and mess-free, making it perfect for indoor use.
Hydroponics & aquaponics
Potting mixes for orchids, succulents, and tropical houseplants
Drainage layers in planters
Decorative top dressing
Biofiltration media in aquariums and ponds
Rinse thoroughly before first use to remove clay dust.
Fill net pots or grow beds with LECA.
Add plants and adjust your irrigation system for consistent moisture.
Monitor and top up nutrient solution as needed.
Add a drainage layer of LECA at the bottom of your pot.
Fill the remainder with your chosen soil mix.
Optionally, grow entirely in LECA for semi-hydroponic setups just ensure roots have access to water and nutrients.
Wash thoroughly before use.
Fill grow beds or biofilters with the chosen size of LECA.
Maintain good water circulation for healthy plant and fish growth.
Orchids: Perfect aeration and moisture balance to prevent root rot.
Succulents & Cacti: Excellent drainage to mimic natural arid conditions.
Leafy Greens & Herbs: Consistent moisture delivery in hydro systems for lush growth.
Fruit & Vegetable Crops: Stable root support and oxygenation for high yields.
Material: 100% natural fired clay
Sizes Available: 24mm, 49mm, 916mm
Bag Volume: 15 litres
pH: Neutral (6.57.5)
Weight: Lightweight approx. 0.30.4kg per litre
Lifespan: Multi-year, reusable
LECA is manufactured from abundant natural clay, without chemical additives. Its reusability reduces waste, and it can be recycled into outdoor garden beds or landscaping after years of use.
Always rinse before use to remove any clay dust.
Sterilise between plantings using boiling water or a mild hydrogen peroxide solution.
For semi-hydroponic houseplants, keep water level just below the root zone to encourage roots to grow downwards.
Combine different pebble sizes for improved stability and varied moisture retention.
Fresh, clean stock direct from the supplier
Three size options to suit every growing need
Fast, reliable shipping across South Africa
Competitive pricing on bulk orders
Upgrade your growing system with premium expanded clay pebbles / LECA. Whether youre a hobby gardener, commercial grower, or aquaponics enthusiast, youll love the clean, reusable, and versatile benefits this growing medium provides.
Available now in 15L bags choose your size:
24mm Micro
49mm Standard
916mm Large