I first came across this channel just as I was contemplating buying my first houseplant. Stupidly(?) that was an expensive Monstera Thai Constellation and I went full on in LECA as I liked the idea of a soil free plant hobby. 50+ plants later and 95% of all plantings have been successful. Just go for it. Throw yourself into it. It’s not as difficult as you think it’s going to be.
😅Hi Mrs. Nora, I have followed you through your five year Leca journey all the while learning from YOU as you learned. And, I am ever so grateful for the vast wealth of knowledge you so willingly❤ share. It has helped me with transitioning so many of my plant babies, some successfully, some not so much. But, you have made it an enjoyable, worthwhile journey that I'm happy to continue on. I actually signed up for your Master Class (which I need to finish but wasn't able to due to health issues) and learned a lot from it. I will continue on this journey with you and appreciate the wealth of information you continue to provide. Many, many thanks to you!
This was gripping: supremely well-organised, thorough, clear, a masterful presentation of options, authoritative yet without being in any way dogmatic. What a treat! Big thanks.
Top video by Top Master of semi-hydroponic culture. Dear Nora, you are not just "feeding" our plant care, you are also "feeding" our heart. Such a generous person.... Genuine love fot Mother Earth and all Her beings spreads around every time l hear and watch you. Blessings and gratitude to you, my dear Nora. ❤❤❤
This is the first video by you that I have seen and, well, you know this already ~ you knocked it out of the park! I watched the whole thing! Is LECA for me? Not sure. Will I give it a try? Most definitely! I live on a sailboat so... it would have advantages and disadvantages (like anything else in life) so I will have to put those up again using soil and figure this thing out. I am really just getting back into plants after being away for many years. Really looking forward to learning a lot more from you. New subscriber.
I just saw your interview with Gardening in Australia news. That was awesome. I had no idea that you have a medical degree, you go girl. As a scientist who can take time to help us out is the best!!
I’m on minute 45 I’ve learnt a lot about Leca! Just decided to click on this video to learn something new. I’m really into gardening, getting into house plants this year.
Someone told me about you. Thank you so much! I love how much you love plants. I’ve already moved some of my pothos without any knowledge into leca and glass jars. Just looks so nice and they love it. But I’m gonna watch and learn. Thank you so much ❤
You have so many beautiful plants. And I'm 68 years old and I'm just now getting into this hobby. I love plants. And I'm doing 90% of my plans from starter plants. So here's my question. Maybe one time when you doing videos that you can show all the ones that was started plants that you did to make him so big and beautiful now
I love this video. I learned so much. It is the most helpful video on Leca I have found. It does however make me miss the days that we would buy Dollar tree soil and put the plant in a way too big pot in a very dark corner and say "Good luck! See you in a month" (If I remember to water you) 😅
Yes...those were the good old days. I remember my grandmother and my mother doing what you described and their houseplants flourished. No plant food, store bought soil, special water and no pests. These new age plants are so needy. 😅
Omg 3:20 looks exactly like the plant that My Daughter asked me to babysit when she moved out of state last year. I put it outside because I thought it needed a lot of light and it apparently burned and looks disgusting. I almost threw it out, but I saved it from the bitter cold and snow that we just received. Not sure if it’s worth saving🫤 unless you can show me how to wave my magic wand lol
This was so helpful! Thank you. I’ve been wanted to make the transition, but then some “problem” in a blog makes me second guess this. This really helped address some of those concerns.
THANK YOUUU THANK YOU thank youuuu 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼 I have been searching for information about leca and nothing NOTHING has been as comprehensive as your video. Thank you sooooo much 🙏🏼
This was fantastic, just fantastic. I played it on the background while I cleaned and pruned my plants and it was such a peaceful and enlightening time. I think I'm doing most things right. I haven't had a need for an air stone or some of the "nice to have" things mentioned toward the end, but one thing I want to add more of is supplemental lights. Slowly but surely I will! Thank you for sharing your knowledge so generously. Greetings from the Spanish Caribbean!
Thank you thank you thank you. This is the first video that I have found and I have been looking through many that is telling me how to water. You letting us know how much how to do it and again thank you. I was struggling till I saw this video.
This video is so rich in information, I'm sure I will watch it a few times. 😊 I still have varying success with plants after 4 years of plant parenting. These tips should increase my odds. A big thank you, Nora!🪴
Been watching you for about a year or so, I tried leca and moss poles at the same time and was overwhelmed with learning 2 new things. Due to your recent videos I am going to get back at it.
Because of you, I have learned to love LECA. It is truly a learned process. I love the purple passion plant, but I have had no success growing it in LECA. So I bought a plant to grow in soil......I had forgotten how nasty it is to work in soil, transferring it & dealing with the mess. Let alone what it does to my hands & nails. LECA RULES!!!
Leca does rule!! I love how you say it is a learned process. We have to put the work in to understand it and then we reap the rewards. Thank you for being there from the start. I remember our interactions even from the early days.
quite honestly one of your best videos ever. I have about half of my plants in LECA, and you've answered so many questions that continue to linger in the back of my mind. thank you.
I can't thank you enough for this lengthy video. So much information given out. Now I'm more interested to know how to diversify liquid fertilizer in semi hydro. Hope that video will be out soon #request 🌿🌱💚
You're very welcome! Thank you for the amazing feedback. One never quite knows how a video will be received, especially one as long as this one. Thank you for making the process worthwhile.
Thank you so much for your insight on this subject. I have a good number of successes and a few failures. But based on this video I know why now. You are a doll, thanks for sharing!!
Hi Nora, you give so much detailed clear information in that video. I am not a leca user but I can see the result. I wish there was a video like this on PON.
New subbie referred by the funny sarcastic plant guy, Sheffield Made Plants. I have been curious about using leca because I am so ready for a change. Peace and blessings.
As a hydroponic person with 16 years experience, I advise people to get a PPM meter and a PH meter and learn how to use them. Without these two essential pieces of equipment it's all guess work. Different plants have varying pH preferences, ranging from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. The wrong PH will not provide optimal growth.
I really enjoyed watching this Nora. I'm sure it was a lot of hard work for you and I for one, am very appreciative of all yr hard work. Thank you so so much. Sitting watching this was like a refresher course. Now that I am up the road a bit in my journey, I am absorbing this video with more understanding and little nuggets are sticking to my mind. It's not about a new word. It's about a now word. Love you lots. ❤
great video! thank you for taking the time to make this. do you have any leca plants outside for summer? I want to take mine out but I have never seen someone take their leca plants out
Thank you so much for these tips. I subscribed ❤️. I've been wanting to try semi-hydro for a while now. I've already tried the hydroponic method to grow some herbs and it's worked really well. But I didn't know much about growing house plants in leca so I've been doing some research on that. Your videos are the best ones that I've seen on the subject, and now I think I can start transferring my plants from soil to leca. At first I thought I'd just propagate some of my favourites. But now I've got a medical treatment coming and after that I shouldn't be handling soil for a long while. So what better time to start transferring most of my plants to leca. I think I'll start with the tropical plants and leave the cacti and few other dry area plants still in the soil. They'll be fine without re-potting for at least a year or two anyway.
@@TheLecaQueen Thank you for your wishes. I actually already started the project while watching this video. I washed the roots of a couple of plants and cut down an older and a bit suffered Scindapsus pictus to pieces. I'll propagate them to get a thicker plant. I think I got about 20 new starts from that 😄. Next I'll go and watch your long method video to remind me what I should do with the washed ones 😁. Going to leca shopping tomorrow 😂.
This video is great advice. On the subject of when to change the nutrient solution. I am currently changing the solution once a week, as all my plants are newly potted, I want to provide them with the best chance. I find this is a bit of a chore. I also clean the reservoir container. as they get slimy and gunky. As well, I am finding greeblies swimming around in the old solution. Eww!!!!! I finish by spraying down the leaves. The plants look great after this whole process, which is so satisfying.
Most of my plants are doing great in soil, but I'm transitioning my water-sensitive stuff to leca. I got my first root rot on a silver satin scindapsis that I was underwatering (probably lost some roots to underwatering, then rotted them when they got wet) and it's re-rooting in my aquarium. Then I'll transfer it to leca. I'm considering doing the same for my two baby Thai constellations. They're healthy, but I know they're sensitive. They can't go into leca right now because I have to keep them high up while they're little. My cat likes tender young leaves. Hopefully this summer they'll get bigger and toughen up on my balcony, and when they come indoors for the winter, they'll be safe on the floor. I can transition them to leca then. Right now they're on a little window shelf that won't hold a ton of weight. So I've got a couple months to learn everything while the scindapsis re-roots. Autism research powers activate!
I bought a leca that doesnt exoand. They did fine as long as i kept the water level high but when i let the water go low, it killed them. Im using them now to hold plants steady in the pot thats submerged in the fish tank
Hello Nora. At my country there is not that product of fertilizer. But there is a and b fertilizer for vegetable. Is it ok to use them for indoor tropical plants?
I am curious though. When your LECA starts to dry up at the top of the pot, but your catch pot is still full enough. In those times, I'll usually use a squeeze bottle just to wet down the leca towards the top. Is this a good practice?
Amanda, I only water from the top for the first 2 or 3 weeks of transitioning a plant to semi-hydro, especially if it had been living in water. After that, I let the substrate work as it's intended. Remember, LECA and PON move water by capillary ("wicking") action. If the bottom is wet but then you wet the top, the substrate will not be as efficient pulling up moisture evenly and you risk having some roots that are very hydrated and others that are parched in the same pot. So, after the initial gentle transitioning, let the LECA do what LECA will so beautifully do.
Thanks a lot for such an amazing wrap up. Newbie to leca and am happy to find your channel. Just a quick question though, I understand about solid fertilizers that you can't use in leca since u don't have that organic biome, but water soluble normal fertilizers like npk or seaweed liquid they are totally dissolvable and are immediately available to plants, imo there isn't break downs happening there atleast that what I understand, also then it doesn't explain how foliar spray of these work if they are needed to be broken down to be available for plants. However don't want to take any risks and have got what I can get here in UAE for hydroponics.
What is your definition of natural fertiliser? And what is your efinition of water plants? I grow my plants in leca or other substrates, not water only, so just want to make sure we are on the same page.
@@TheLecaQueen I LL try leca if I get it but I am just growing my plants in water like pathos species etc so what home made fertiliser I can make to help my plants. 🙏
@Neemdna unfortunately I can't help with homemade recipes. Because I use semi hydroponics, I like to use fertiliser made for hydroponics so that my plants get the right nutrients they need in the right amounts they need in the form they can absorb.
Can I add clay balls to my orchid mix for some plants ? I have a calathea orbifoila she’s very poorly I repotted her in orchid an little compost. Giving her light , she’s still not happy her leaves are all crispy edges . Even bought a humidifier. She’s so limp I feel she’s dying . Do I put her by the humidifier every day an how long please ? Thank u
Hello Nora, I was just gifted an enormous Hoya plant. I have just started researching how to switch from soil to semi hydroponics. I was wondering if you could help me with where to start this process? The Hoya has a lot of wax flowers and a lot of long stems that I want to propagate. I wish I could send you a picture of how huge she is. She’s in a big outdoor container that a person would grow tomatoes in. Lots of soil and a ton of long stems. How would I even go about starting this? Should I cut the long woody stems to propagate first? Thanks in advance! I found you about a month ago and you are absolutely amazing! Take Care, Teri
You know I love a Hoya. I would love to see it. Join my free Facebook group, you can put pictures there or even better check out thelecaqueen.com for other ways of contact or membership.
Hello, I collect Hoyas and would like to transfer them to Leca. 😊 Would the care be the same if they were grown in PON? You have an amazing plant collection.💚
I'm really curious though. Sometimes, the LECA towards the top of the pot will dry out even though the catch pot will be where it needs to be. I'll usually use a squeeze bottle to wet the LECA towards the top. Is that considered a good practice?
Hi there. I'm watching your video; and I am very interested. However, I was wondering how you ship plants after growing them in Leca. Also, I am thinking that by using Leca you have less brown tipped leaves, etc.?
Are you looking to sell plants? I know some people take the plant out of the pot and wrap it in moss or damp kitchen roll and send it that way. The brown tips could be less but honestly it just depends on how one takes care of their plants.
If I am moving a plant from soil to LECA and the plant is one that doesn't like a lot of water, is the long method still advised or is the short method better due to the fact that there is less water touching the roots? Thank you!
I do not use the long method in those cases, straight to leca. I recommend this video: ua-cam.com/video/p9kz8uf028o/v-deo.html. Also using the wick method is ideal. You could use the shower method but I don't because ain't nobody got time for that!
I’m honestly 💯 nervous about having to monitor so much with Leca and Pon. I have ADHD and worry I’ll miss a step and kill my plants. As well, the start up seems expensive with the plant food, Leca, Pon, monitoring tools. To offset costs I am saving plastic containers left and right and putting holes in them to get them ready when I do find my brave moment. I’ve found Leca (Odla) at IKEA for super cheap! Is it a good starter Leca? I’m already struggling to keep my place humid enough, as I live in a SUPER dry climate (Phoenix, AZ, USA)
So far my experience with Leca/semi hydro was a completely failure. Even after watching so many videos on UA-cam in this topic, soaked theory like a sponge, tried and failed. I’m 30 min behind on your video, I hope I learn something new and try again without ending with completely rooted roots or mould on the top of leca. Because as many people explain that it’s easier than soil, for me it’s totally opposite 😂
Sorry to hear that I hope this changes for you. Did you learn anything that may change things for you? May I ask what plants you tried in leca? Some plants are generally not as easy as others.
i bought a sack of cheap "Leca" on eBay . BIG Mistake. It looked horrible, like grey and broken bits. Anyway i used it anyway . This leca was always getting Mouldy , i am talking about white Mould, not the crystal build up. NEVER BUY CHEAP LECA
This video has loads full of information. I grow a few plants in Leca now. I have listen to your videos. Like you said these are suggestions based on your atmosphere. It worked for me. Thanks. I’m June in my Junegle. 🪴Happy Planting🌿
Can I add clay balls to my orchid mix for some plants ? I have a calathea orbifoila she’s very poorly I repotted her in orchid an little compost. Giving her light , she’s still not happy her leaves are all crispy edges . Even bought a humidifier. She’s so limp I feel she’s dying . Do I put her by the humidifier every day an how long please ? Thank u
This video has loads full of information. I grow a few plants in Leca now. I have listen to your videos. Like you said these are suggestions based on your atmosphere. It worked for me. Thanks. I’m June in my Junegle. 🪴Happy Planting🌿
I first came across this channel just as I was contemplating buying my first houseplant. Stupidly(?) that was an expensive Monstera Thai Constellation and I went full on in LECA as I liked the idea of a soil free plant hobby. 50+ plants later and 95% of all plantings have been successful. Just go for it. Throw yourself into it. It’s not as difficult as you think it’s going to be.
Love it!!! So true !
Same. I put everything in leca except my cactus and succulents because I’m scared. 😂
My problem is the cost for so many plants 😢
😅Hi Mrs. Nora, I have followed you through your five year Leca journey all the while learning from YOU as you learned. And, I am ever so grateful for the vast wealth of knowledge you so willingly❤ share. It has helped me with transitioning so many of my plant babies, some successfully, some not so much. But, you have made it an enjoyable, worthwhile journey that I'm happy to continue on. I actually signed up for your Master Class (which I need to finish but wasn't able to due to health issues) and learned a lot from it. I will continue on this journey with you and appreciate the wealth of information you continue to provide. Many, many thanks to you!
Thank you so much for the support ❤️ 🙏
This was gripping: supremely well-organised, thorough, clear, a masterful presentation of options, authoritative yet without being in any way dogmatic. What a treat! Big thanks.
You are truly the “Leca Queen” Nora!
Thank you my dear friend 🧡. I truly appreciate your constant support ❤️
I love your voice and video set up. So neat and organized
I am SO GLAD I found your videos!! Luv 'ya!!!
Holy Moly I have never seen a watermelon peperomia look so good. Wow
Top video by Top Master of semi-hydroponic culture. Dear Nora, you are not just "feeding" our plant care, you are also "feeding" our heart. Such a generous person.... Genuine love fot Mother Earth and all Her beings spreads around every time l hear and watch you. Blessings and gratitude to you, my dear Nora. ❤❤❤
Such high praise, I am truly humbled, thank you
@@TheLecaQueen Nothing but my true feelings...
This is the first video by you that I have seen and, well, you know this already ~ you knocked it out of the park! I watched the whole thing! Is LECA for me? Not sure. Will I give it a try? Most definitely! I live on a sailboat so... it would have advantages and disadvantages (like anything else in life) so I will have to put those up again using soil and figure this thing out. I am really just getting back into plants after being away for many years. Really looking forward to learning a lot more from you. New subscriber.
Thank you for subscribing, I am glad you enjoyed the video, I hope it will help you get started! Your kind words are very appreciated.
I just saw your interview with Gardening in Australia news. That was awesome. I had no idea that you have a medical degree, you go girl. As a scientist who can take time to help us out is the best!!
Thank you. I enjoyed making that. It was magical
You are an inspiration to me! I keep watching your videos to help me on my plant journey.
Excellent video! Your a wonderful teacher! Thank you.
You are so welcome!
What an amazing amount of really helpful information.
This is a great video for anyone trying to get their arms around what LECA life looks like.
I’m on minute 45 I’ve learnt a lot about Leca! Just decided to click on this video to learn something new. I’m really into gardening, getting into house plants this year.
Someone told me about you. Thank you so much! I love how much you love plants. I’ve already moved some of my pothos without any knowledge into leca and glass jars. Just looks so nice and they love it. But I’m gonna watch and learn. Thank you so much ❤
You have so many beautiful plants. And I'm 68 years old and I'm just now getting into this hobby. I love plants. And I'm doing 90% of my plans from starter plants. So here's my question. Maybe one time when you doing videos that you can show all the ones that was started plants that you did to make him so big and beautiful now
i'm so happy and grateful your my first introduction to houseplants!
That’s awesome! I’m so glad you decided to give them a try 😊
I love this video. I learned so much. It is the most helpful video on Leca I have found. It does however make me miss the days that we would buy Dollar tree soil and put the plant in a way too big pot in a very dark corner and say "Good luck! See you in a month" (If I remember to water you) 😅
Yes...those were the good old days. I remember my grandmother and my mother doing what you described and their houseplants flourished. No plant food, store bought soil, special water and no pests. These new age plants are so needy. 😅
Omg 3:20 looks exactly like the plant that My Daughter asked me to babysit when she moved out of state last year. I put it outside because I thought it needed a lot of light and it apparently burned and looks disgusting. I almost threw it out, but I saved it from the bitter cold and snow that we just received. Not sure if it’s worth saving🫤 unless you can show me how to wave my magic wand lol
Love the errant Hoya that wants to be part of the video.
I know right 😊😂😂❤❤gotta love a hoya!
This was so helpful! Thank you. I’ve been wanted to make the transition, but then some “problem” in a blog makes me second guess this. This really helped address some of those concerns.
THANK YOUUU THANK YOU thank youuuu 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼 I have been searching for information about leca and nothing NOTHING has been as comprehensive as your video. Thank you sooooo much 🙏🏼
You are very welcome.
This was fantastic, just fantastic. I played it on the background while I cleaned and pruned my plants and it was such a peaceful and enlightening time. I think I'm doing most things right. I haven't had a need for an air stone or some of the "nice to have" things mentioned toward the end, but one thing I want to add more of is supplemental lights. Slowly but surely I will! Thank you for sharing your knowledge so generously. Greetings from the Spanish Caribbean!
So glad you enjoyed it.
Your accent is so classy and delightful to listen to! It sounds English/transatlantic
Thank you 😊
Thank you thank you thank you. This is the first video that I have found and I have been looking through many that is telling me how to water. You letting us know how much how to do it and again thank you. I was struggling till I saw this video.
Glad it was helpful!
This video is so rich in information, I'm sure I will watch it a few times. 😊 I still have varying success with plants after 4 years of plant parenting. These tips should increase my odds. A big thank you, Nora!🪴
Glad it was helpful!
Incredible video!! Thank you Leca Queen!!
Been watching you for about a year or so, I tried leca and moss poles at the same time and was overwhelmed with learning 2 new things. Due to your recent videos I am going to get back at it.
You have very pretty plants , your very knowleadable
Thank you for sharing such great information.
I tell everyone about you and recommend transitioning to leca. I was nervous to try it but I watched your videos to gain a better understanding.
You are too kind, thank you 😊
Because of you, I have learned to love LECA. It is truly a learned process. I love the purple passion plant, but I have had no success growing it in LECA. So I bought a plant to grow in soil......I had forgotten how nasty it is to work in soil, transferring it & dealing with the mess. Let alone what it does to my hands & nails. LECA RULES!!!
Leca does rule!! I love how you say it is a learned process. We have to put the work in to understand it and then we reap the rewards. Thank you for being there from the start. I remember our interactions even from the early days.
Interesting, I’m sharing this with someone I know now. Thanks!!!
You are too kind, thank you 😊
quite honestly one of your best videos ever. I have about half of my plants in LECA, and you've answered so many questions that continue to linger in the back of my mind. thank you.
Glad it was helpful! Thank you for the support. I would not do it without this awesome feedback.
I can't thank you enough for this lengthy video. So much information given out. Now I'm more interested to know how to diversify liquid fertilizer in semi hydro. Hope that video will be out soon #request 🌿🌱💚
You're very welcome! Thank you for the amazing feedback. One never quite knows how a video will be received, especially one as long as this one. Thank you for making the process worthwhile.
Thanks for the DIY ideas for pots.
You are so welcome!
Feeling so much more confident about diving into Leca. Very much appreciate all the info in one place. Big hi from melbourne!
Excellent video content! I am so thankful! Learning so much from you, Nora, cannot thank you enough!❤❤❤
You are so welcome!
The most complete video on this theme!
Thank you 😊
Thank you so much for your insight on this subject. I have a good number of successes and a few failures. But based on this video I know why now. You are a doll, thanks for sharing!!
You are very welcome 🙏
Hi Nora, you give so much detailed clear information in that video. I am not a leca user but I can see the result. I wish there was a video like this on PON.
Thank you do much. I wish I could do one on pon but I don't use it enough to give any detailed information. I am a casual user at best.
New subbie referred by the funny sarcastic plant guy, Sheffield Made Plants. I have been curious about using leca because I am so ready for a change. Peace and blessings.
Welcome!! I love Richard, he is just the best. I love his sarcastic humour as well!
I love this Video, thank you
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you for this. I’ve been growing my plants in water based nutrient solution for a few months now and I’ve just found the courage to try leca. ❤
Glad it was helpful!
As a hydroponic person with 16 years experience, I advise people to get a PPM meter and a PH meter and learn how to use them. Without these two essential pieces of equipment it's all guess work. Different plants have varying pH preferences, ranging from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. The wrong PH will not provide optimal growth.
Thank you for your important insights. Much appreciated.
Where does a person find the ph a specific plant likes?
Thank you so much for this!!!
You're so welcome!
Excellent class
Glad you think so! Many thanks.
Hi Nora. Great video😊 your videos lead me to have 3 plants in Leca since last year. They are doing great! 🎉
I'm so glad to hear that your plants are thriving in Leca! It's amazing how much joy plants can bring into our lives. Keep up the great work!
I really enjoyed watching this Nora. I'm sure it was a lot of hard work for you and I for one, am very appreciative of all yr hard work. Thank you so so much. Sitting watching this was like a refresher course. Now that I am up the road a bit in my journey, I am absorbing this video with more understanding and little nuggets are sticking to my mind.
It's not about a new word. It's about a now word. Love you lots. ❤
Thank you so much my dear friend.
Absolutely fantastick video! I've watched it all in one breath! Congrats!
Wow, thanks! That makes me really happy 😊
The cold water from a outside hose doesnt freeze the plant? In Michigan even summer hose water is cold
great video! thank you for taking the time to make this. do you have any leca plants outside for summer? I want to take mine out but I have never seen someone take their leca plants out
Thank you , Absolutely amazing all the knowledge you shared .. TY..TY,…TY…
You are so welcome
Thank you so much for these tips. I subscribed ❤️. I've been wanting to try semi-hydro for a while now. I've already tried the hydroponic method to grow some herbs and it's worked really well. But I didn't know much about growing house plants in leca so I've been doing some research on that. Your videos are the best ones that I've seen on the subject, and now I think I can start transferring my plants from soil to leca.
At first I thought I'd just propagate some of my favourites. But now I've got a medical treatment coming and after that I shouldn't be handling soil for a long while. So what better time to start transferring most of my plants to leca. I think I'll start with the tropical plants and leave the cacti and few other dry area plants still in the soil. They'll be fine without re-potting for at least a year or two anyway.
You are very welcome. I wish you all the best with your treatment.
@@TheLecaQueen Thank you for your wishes. I actually already started the project while watching this video. I washed the roots of a couple of plants and cut down an older and a bit suffered Scindapsus pictus to pieces. I'll propagate them to get a thicker plant. I think I got about 20 new starts from that 😄. Next I'll go and watch your long method video to remind me what I should do with the washed ones 😁. Going to leca shopping tomorrow 😂.
Great video, I've been using Leca foe several years and always looking to learn ore about Leca.
Thanks for watching!
This video is great advice. On the subject of when to change the nutrient solution. I am currently changing the solution once a week, as all my plants are newly potted, I want to provide them with the best chance. I find this is a bit of a chore. I also clean the reservoir container. as they get slimy and gunky. As well, I am finding greeblies swimming around in the old solution. Eww!!!!! I finish by spraying down the leaves. The plants look great after this whole process, which is so satisfying.
Could the creepy crawlies be springtails?
Amazing video, thank you so much!💚
You're so welcome!
Most of my plants are doing great in soil, but I'm transitioning my water-sensitive stuff to leca. I got my first root rot on a silver satin scindapsis that I was underwatering (probably lost some roots to underwatering, then rotted them when they got wet) and it's re-rooting in my aquarium. Then I'll transfer it to leca. I'm considering doing the same for my two baby Thai constellations. They're healthy, but I know they're sensitive. They can't go into leca right now because I have to keep them high up while they're little. My cat likes tender young leaves. Hopefully this summer they'll get bigger and toughen up on my balcony, and when they come indoors for the winter, they'll be safe on the floor. I can transition them to leca then. Right now they're on a little window shelf that won't hold a ton of weight.
So I've got a couple months to learn everything while the scindapsis re-roots. Autism research powers activate!
Thank you for all this information. Hi from Arizona 🌵!
You are so welcome!
Thank you 🙏👏👏🌴🍀🌿🍃🌱🌳🌵
Such great information. I’m nervous about putting alocasia in water for the transition. Do you recommend that method for alocasia?
wow great tutorial, thank you Leca Queen. 👌🙏💞
You’re welcome 😊 thanks for watching 👀
Ooos, and I wanted to start with calathea
Excellent info!
I bought a leca that doesnt exoand. They did fine as long as i kept the water level high but when i let the water go low, it killed them. Im using them now to hold plants steady in the pot thats submerged in the fish tank
I use ceramsite for water propagation to hold the cuttings down
Great idea!
The Hoya heuschkeliana at the 8 second mark is my dream. This is one of the plants that just hasn't done well for me.
Exilant Video Best guidance for Plants lover
Thanks a lot
Please suggest me in ze ze plant in lica boll best liquid diet in India
Hello Nora. At my country there is not that product of fertilizer. But there is a and b fertilizer for vegetable. Is it ok to use them for indoor tropical plants?
I am curious though. When your LECA starts to dry up at the top of the pot, but your catch pot is still full enough. In those times, I'll usually use a squeeze bottle just to wet down the leca towards the top. Is this a good practice?
Amanda, I only water from the top for the first 2 or 3 weeks of transitioning a plant to semi-hydro, especially if it had been living in water. After that, I let the substrate work as it's intended. Remember, LECA and PON move water by capillary ("wicking") action. If the bottom is wet but then you wet the top, the substrate will not be as efficient pulling up moisture evenly and you risk having some roots that are very hydrated and others that are parched in the same pot. So, after the initial gentle transitioning, let the LECA do what LECA will so beautifully do.
Thanks a lot for such an amazing wrap up. Newbie to leca and am happy to find your channel. Just a quick question though, I understand about solid fertilizers that you can't use in leca since u don't have that organic biome, but water soluble normal fertilizers like npk or seaweed liquid they are totally dissolvable and are immediately available to plants, imo there isn't break downs happening there atleast that what I understand, also then it doesn't explain how foliar spray of these work if they are needed to be broken down to be available for plants. However don't want to take any risks and have got what I can get here in UAE for hydroponics.
It is not just about them being dissolvable, it is about the ionic state the nutrients are in so they can be absorbed by the plant.
Thanks
Hi Nora I did it ! Dipped my toe in leca . I have a pothos , peace Lilly an a calathea! Can I put a deifenabecca in leca ?
Yes you can. They love it
Hi leca queen🎉you have video on natural fertiliser in water plants ?❤
What is your definition of natural fertiliser? And what is your efinition of water plants? I grow my plants in leca or other substrates, not water only, so just want to make sure we are on the same page.
@@TheLecaQueen I LL try leca if I get it but I am just growing my plants in water like pathos species etc so what home made fertiliser I can make to help my plants. 🙏
@Neemdna unfortunately I can't help with homemade recipes. Because I use semi hydroponics, I like to use fertiliser made for hydroponics so that my plants get the right nutrients they need in the right amounts they need in the form they can absorb.
Can I add clay balls to my orchid mix for some plants ? I have a calathea orbifoila she’s very poorly I repotted her in orchid an little compost. Giving her light , she’s still not happy her leaves are all crispy edges . Even bought a humidifier. She’s so limp I feel she’s dying . Do I put her by the humidifier every day an how long please ? Thank u
Every time I flush I get a new batch of roots!🌱💚
Hello Nora,
I was just gifted an enormous Hoya plant. I have just started researching how to switch from soil to semi hydroponics. I was wondering if you could help me with where to start this process? The Hoya has a lot of wax flowers and a lot of long stems that I want to propagate. I wish I could send you a picture of how huge she is. She’s in a big outdoor container that a person would grow tomatoes in. Lots of soil and a ton of long stems.
How would I even go about starting this? Should I cut the long woody stems to propagate first?
Thanks in advance!
I found you about a month ago and you are absolutely amazing!
Take Care,
Teri
You know I love a Hoya. I would love to see it. Join my free Facebook group, you can put pictures there or even better check out thelecaqueen.com for other ways of contact or membership.
Do you think Calatheas would prefer the submerged or the wick setup ? 🤔
Depends on the Calathea.
Hello, I collect Hoyas and would like to transfer them to Leca. 😊 Would the care be the same if they were grown in PON? You have an amazing plant collection.💚
It depends on how you grow your plant in pon. I have lots of Hoya videos. Check them out, they might give you your answer.
I'm really curious though. Sometimes, the LECA towards the top of the pot will dry out even though the catch pot will be where it needs to be. I'll usually use a squeeze bottle to wet the LECA towards the top. Is that considered a good practice?
Hi there. I'm watching your video; and I am very interested. However, I was wondering how you ship plants after growing them in Leca. Also, I am thinking that by using Leca you have less brown tipped leaves, etc.?
Are you looking to sell plants? I know some people take the plant out of the pot and wrap it in moss or damp kitchen roll and send it that way. The brown tips could be less but honestly it just depends on how one takes care of their plants.
@@TheLecaQueen Thanks!
Hello. What do you use to make the extra holes in your clear pots? Thank you.
ua-cam.com/video/2SQfVtAz870/v-deo.html
@@TheLecaQueenThank you!!!!
Hi Nora,
Just checking if you have done orchids in LECA?
Orchids started the semi hydro thing and they love it. Me personally I don't like orchids so no.
i enjoy your video
Thank you 😊
What temperature do you have your heatmat set at please. Thankyou😊
Mine has no options, just on or off.
@@TheLecaQueen oh ok that would make it easier 😂 thanks anyway 😀
My mums name is Nora love you already😊❤❤ have bag of fine leca ready to begin
OMG!! Nora is the best name. I love you and your Mum. Welcome!
If I am moving a plant from soil to LECA and the plant is one that doesn't like a lot of water, is the long method still advised or is the short method better due to the fact that there is less water touching the roots? Thank you!
I do not use the long method in those cases, straight to leca. I recommend this video: ua-cam.com/video/p9kz8uf028o/v-deo.html. Also using the wick method is ideal. You could use the shower method but I don't because ain't nobody got time for that!
For flushing can we use tap water?
Depending on your water, yes. I use tap water.
I’m honestly 💯 nervous about having to monitor so much with Leca and Pon. I have ADHD and worry I’ll miss a step and kill my plants. As well, the start up seems expensive with the plant food, Leca, Pon, monitoring tools.
To offset costs I am saving plastic containers left and right and putting holes in them to get them ready when I do find my brave moment. I’ve found Leca (Odla) at IKEA for super cheap! Is it a good starter Leca? I’m already struggling to keep my place humid enough, as I live in a SUPER dry climate (Phoenix, AZ, USA)
Can pumice be used instead of leca?
Some people use it yes.
Can you grow snake plant in Leca?
yes
Absolutely
I do not like leca except to cover the holes in my pots, or mixing into the soil, but I love the magic you display.
I respect that. Each to their own and I thank you for your graciousness, kindness and support ❤️ 🙏
So far my experience with Leca/semi hydro was a completely failure. Even after watching so many videos on UA-cam in this topic, soaked theory like a sponge, tried and failed. I’m 30 min behind on your video, I hope I learn something new and try again without ending with completely rooted roots or mould on the top of leca. Because as many people explain that it’s easier than soil, for me it’s totally opposite 😂
Sorry to hear that I hope this changes for you. Did you learn anything that may change things for you? May I ask what plants you tried in leca? Some plants are generally not as easy as others.
I'm always afraid if I flush a plant ill cause root rot
Does it cost to subscribe
Nope, free
😂 master class
I am glad you think so. I thought it was. Stuff I would have loved to know when I started.
i bought a sack of cheap "Leca" on eBay . BIG Mistake. It looked horrible, like grey and broken bits. Anyway i used it anyway . This leca was always getting Mouldy , i am talking about white Mould, not the crystal build up. NEVER BUY CHEAP LECA
Oh no!!! Lots of unscrupulous people there
This video has loads full of information. I grow a few plants in Leca now. I have listen to your videos. Like you said these are suggestions based on your atmosphere. It worked for me. Thanks. I’m June in my Junegle.
🪴Happy Planting🌿
Thank you so much for this comprehensive video! I love your content; you’ve helped me SO much! ❤🪴👑
You are so welcome!
Can I add clay balls to my orchid mix for some plants ? I have a calathea orbifoila she’s very poorly I repotted her in orchid an little compost. Giving her light , she’s still not happy her leaves are all crispy edges . Even bought a humidifier. She’s so limp I feel she’s dying . Do I put her by the humidifier every day an how long please ? Thank u
This video has loads full of information. I grow a few plants in Leca now. I have listen to your videos. Like you said these are suggestions based on your atmosphere. It worked for me. Thanks. I’m June in my Junegle.
🪴Happy Planting🌿