How To Grow Network Calatheas In LECA

November 6, 2023 Cafe Planta Team

Network Calatheas, with their strikingly patterned leaves, are a true delight for plant lovers looking to add a touch of elegance to their homes. Growing them in LECA (Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate) can be a game-changer, offering a modern twist to traditional soil-based methods.

In this article, we'll take a look at how to successfully grow Network Calatheas in LECA, providing you with tips and insights to keep your plants thriving. From understanding the basics of LECA to troubleshooting common issues, we've got you covered.

Why Choose LECA for Your Calathea?

So, you might be wondering, why LECA and not the usual potting soil? Well, there are some pretty good reasons why plant parents are making the switch to these little clay balls. First off, LECA provides excellent drainage and airflow around the roots. This can be especially beneficial for Calatheas, which are notorious for their dislike of soggy soil.

Another perk? LECA helps reduce the risk of overwatering—a common pitfall for new plant owners. The clay balls soak up water and then release it slowly, keeping the plant's roots consistently moist without drowning them. It's like the perfect babysitter for your Calathea's hydration needs. Plus, LECA is reusable and can last for years with proper care, making it a sustainable option for your indoor garden.

And here's a little bonus tip: Growing in LECA can also reduce the likelihood of pests. Since there's no organic matter for them to munch on, pests like fungus gnats are less likely to make a home in your planters. It's a win-win!

Getting Started: What You Need

Before you get your hands dirty—well, not that dirty, thanks to LECA—you'll need to gather a few supplies. Here's what you'll need:

LECA Balls: These can be found at most gardening stores or ordered online.
Mesh Pot or Net Pot: This allows excess water to drain away, preventing root rot.
Waterproof Cache Pot: This will catch the drained water and keep your surfaces dry.
Hydroponic Fertilizer: Since LECA doesn't contain any nutrients, you'll need to add liquid fertilizer to the water.
pH Testing Kit: Optional, but handy to ensure your water is at an optimal pH level for Calatheas (around 5.5-6.5).

Once you've got all your materials, set up a comfortable workspace. Perhaps put on some of your favorite tunes and make it an enjoyable experience!

Prepping Your LECA

Before you plant your Calathea, you’ll want to prep those LECA balls to ensure they’re ready for action. Here’s how you can do it:

Rinse the LECA: Start by thoroughly rinsing the LECA under running water. This helps to remove any dust or debris that could cloud your water.
Soak the LECA: Fill a large bowl or bucket with water and soak the LECA for at least 24 hours. This allows the clay balls to fully absorb water, which is essential for their function.
Rinse Again: After soaking, give the LECA another good rinse to remove any remaining dust or particles.

And voilà! Your LECA is now ready to support your Calathea’s growth.

Transferring Your Calathea to LECA

Now comes the fun part: getting your Calathea nestled into its new LECA home. If you’ve ever repotted a plant, some of these steps will feel familiar:

Remove the Plant from Soil: Gently take your Calathea out of its current pot and carefully remove as much soil from the roots as possible. You might want to use a gentle stream of water to help wash away stubborn bits of soil.
Inspect the Roots: Check the roots for any signs of rot or damage. Trim away any unhealthy roots with clean scissors.
Place in Mesh Pot: Put a layer of pre-soaked LECA at the bottom of your mesh pot. Place the Calathea in the pot, spreading the roots out gently.
Add More LECA: Fill in around the roots with more LECA until the plant is stable and upright.
Set in Cache Pot: Place the mesh pot inside the cache pot. Add water with diluted hydroponic fertilizer to the cache pot, making sure the water level is below the bottom of the mesh pot.

Your Calathea is now set up in its new LECA environment! Give yourself a pat on the back—you’ve just taken a big step towards a healthier plant.

Watering and Fertilizing

Watering in LECA is a bit different from soil, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a breeze. Here’s what you need to know:

Watering Frequency: Generally, you'll need to water your Calathea every 1-2 weeks, but this can vary based on your home’s humidity and temperature.
How Much to Water: Add enough water to the cache pot to fill about a third of it. The LECA will absorb the water and allow the roots to take what they need.
Fertilizing: Use a hydroponic fertilizer diluted to half or a quarter of the recommended strength, adding it to the water every other time you refill the cache pot.

Keep an eye on your plant to tweak your watering schedule. If the leaves start to curl or the plant looks droopy, it might be time to adjust the water levels or frequency.

Monitoring Your Calathea's Health

As a plant parent, it’s important to keep an eye on your Calathea’s well-being. They can’t talk, but they sure can show you how they’re feeling! Here are some signs to watch for:

Leaf Curling: This could mean your Calathea is thirsty. Check the water level in your cache pot and adjust as needed.
Brown Leaf Edges: Often a sign of low humidity or too much fertilizer. Consider misting your plant or using a humidifier.
Yellowing Leaves: This might indicate overwatering or a nutrient deficiency. Make sure you're not letting the plant sit in too much water and that you're fertilizing appropriately.

Every plant has its own personality, and your Calathea is no exception. You’ll learn its quirks over time and become more attuned to what it needs.

Dealing with Common Challenges

Even with the best intentions, sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are some common challenges and how to handle them:

Root Rot: If you notice a foul smell or mushy roots, you might have root rot. Remove the plant from LECA, trim away affected roots, and replace the LECA.
Pests: While LECA reduces pest issues, it’s not immune. If you spot pests, try washing the plant and LECA with soapy water or using insecticidal soap.
Nutrient Deficiency: If the leaves are yellowing despite proper watering, consider increasing the fertilizer strength slightly.

Remember, every plant parent faces challenges now and then. The key is to stay patient and keep learning.

Creating a Calathea-Friendly Environment

A happy plant is one that feels at home in its environment. For your Network Calathea, consider these environmental factors:

Light: Calatheas prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, so keep them in a spot with filtered light.
Humidity: High humidity is essential for Calatheas. Aim for at least 50% humidity, using a humidifier if necessary.
Temperature: These plants like it warm, ideally between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Avoid placing them near drafts or cold windows.

By setting up the right conditions, you’re giving your Calathea the best chance to thrive and show off its beautiful foliage.

Incorporating Calatheas into Your Home Decor

Aside from their care needs, Calatheas are also a fantastic addition to your home decor. Their unique patterns and colors can brighten any space. Here are a few ideas to showcase your Network Calathea:

Grouping Plants: Create a lush corner by grouping your Calathea with other houseplants. Mixing different textures and heights can add depth and interest to your space.
Statement Pieces: Use a decorative pot or stand to turn your Calathea into a statement piece on a shelf or table.
Bathroom Oasis: If you have a bathroom with natural light, it’s a perfect spot for a Calathea, thanks to the naturally higher humidity levels.

With a little creativity, you can integrate your Calathea into your home decor in ways that are both stylish and functional.

Final Thoughts

Growing Network Calatheas in LECA might seem like a modern twist on traditional plant care, but it offers significant benefits in terms of plant health and maintenance. From reducing overwatering to cutting down on pests, LECA can be a great partner for your Calathea journey.

At Cafe Planta, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Whether you’re looking for new plant friends or need advice on keeping your current collection happy, feel free to reach out via email or connect with us on Instagram. We believe that plants have the power to bring people together, and we’re excited to share our love of plants with you!

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