How To Grow Philodendron Lickety Splits In LECA

Philodendron Lickety Split is a favorite among plant lovers, thanks to its unique split leaves and easy-going nature. But have you ever thought about growing it in LECA (Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate)? LECA can be a fantastic medium for your Lickety Split, offering great drainage and aeration, which can help prevent the dreaded root rot.

In this blog post, we'll go through everything you need to know to successfully grow your Philodendron Lickety Split in LECA. From choosing the right LECA balls to understanding the watering routine and maintaining the plant's health, you'll find all the information you need to make your plant thrive.

Why Choose LECA for Your Philodendron Lickety Split?

Before we jump into the how-tos, it's helpful to understand why you might choose LECA over traditional soil for your Philodendron Lickety Split. One of the biggest advantages is drainage. If you've been a plant parent for a while, you probably know the fear of overwatering. LECA offers excellent drainage, significantly reducing the risk of waterlogged roots. This is particularly useful for a plant like Philodendron Lickety Split, which needs well-drained conditions to flourish.

LECA also promotes better air circulation around the roots. Unlike soil, which can compact over time, LECA's structure provides room for air to flow, promoting healthy root systems. This can be a game-changer if you're dealing with root rot issues. Plus, LECA is reusable. Once you've harvested your plant, you can wash the LECA balls and use them again, which is not only economical but also environmentally friendly.

While it might sound like a dream come true, growing in LECA requires a different approach compared to soil. You'll need to tweak your watering routine, monitor nutrient levels, and keep an eye on humidity. But don't worry, we'll cover all of that in the sections to come. Ready to give it a try?

Choosing the Right LECA for Your Plant

Not all LECA is created equal, and choosing the right type can set you up for success. When you're at the store or browsing online, you'll notice that LECA comes in different sizes. For Philodendron Lickety Split, a medium size is generally ideal. Smaller balls can compact too much, reducing airflow, while larger ones may not provide enough support for the plant.

Once you've got your LECA, it's crucial to give it a thorough rinse before use. The balls are often coated in fine dust, which can clog the plant's roots or cause a mess when you water. Rinse them under running water until it runs clear. Some people even soak the LECA overnight to ensure it's clean.

After rinsing, it's time to prepare them for planting. You can place them directly into your plant pot, but make sure the pot has drainage holes. If you're using a decorative pot without drainage, consider placing a smaller pot inside it to avoid waterlogging your plant. The LECA should fill about a third of the pot, providing a base for your Philodendron Lickety Split to sit on. And just like that, you're ready to introduce your plant to its new home!

Transferring Your Philodendron Lickety Split to LECA

Moving your Philodendron Lickety Split from soil to LECA is a bit like taking it on a little vacation. It's going to need some time to adjust, but with the right steps, it'll settle in comfortably. Start by gently removing the plant from its current pot. Take care not to yank it out, as this can damage the roots. Instead, tip the pot to the side and ease the plant out.

Once you have the plant out, you'll need to clean the roots. This part can be a little messy, but it's important. Gently shake off as much soil as you can, and then rinse the roots under lukewarm water until they're clean. If you notice any rotten or mushy roots, go ahead and prune them away with clean scissors.

Now, it's time to plant. Place your Philodendron Lickety Split in the pot, letting the roots fan out over the layer of LECA. Then, fill the pot with more LECA, ensuring that the plant is secure but not buried. The roots should have good contact with the LECA, which will help them absorb moisture and nutrients. With the plant nestled in, you've completed its transition to LECA!

Watering Your Philodendron Lickety Split in LECA

Watering is where LECA really changes the game. Unlike soil, which might need watering once a week or less, LECA requires a bit more attention to detail. The key is to maintain a reservoir of water at the base of the pot, allowing the LECA to wick moisture up to the roots as needed.

Start by filling the bottom part of the pot with about an inch of water. This will act as the reservoir. The LECA balls will absorb the water and gradually release it to the plant. You don't want to cover the LECA entirely with water, as this can lead to root rot.

Check the water level every few days, topping it up as necessary. A good rule of thumb is to let the reservoir dry out completely before refilling it. This will help prevent overwatering and ensure the plant isn't sitting in stagnant water. Remember, the roots need access to air just as much as they need water.

Nutrient Needs for LECA-grown Philodendron Lickety Split

In traditional soil, your Philodendron Lickety Split would get its nutrients from the organic matter present. But in LECA, you'll have to provide those nutrients yourself. This means using a hydroponic fertilizer, which is specially formulated for soilless growing.

Adding nutrients to your water reservoir is straightforward. Follow the instructions on your fertilizer package, which will usually involve diluting a certain amount in water. A half-strength solution is often a good starting point, as you don't want to overwhelm your plant with too much at once.

It's wise to flush out the LECA and the pot every month to prevent salt build-up from the fertilizer. Just rinse the LECA with clean water and then reset the nutrient solution. Doing this keeps the plant healthy and ensures it's getting the balanced diet it needs to thrive.

Maintaining Humidity for Optimal Growth

Philodendron Lickety Split, like many tropical plants, thrives in higher humidity levels. LECA can help maintain some moisture around the roots, but the air around your plant also needs to be considered. If you live in a dry climate or have heating systems that suck moisture out of the air, you might need to up your humidity game.

There are a few easy ways to boost humidity levels. Grouping your plants together can create a microclimate with higher humidity, as plants naturally release moisture into the air. You can also use a pebble tray: simply fill a shallow tray with pebbles and water, and place your plant on top. As the water evaporates, it increases the humidity around the plant.

If those methods aren't cutting it, consider investing in a humidifier. This is a bit more of a commitment but can make a big difference, especially in the colder months. Just ensure the humidifier is placed near the plant, and set it to maintain a consistent humidity level around 50-60%.

Keeping an Eye on Pests

Even with all the benefits LECA offers, pests can still find their way to your Philodendron Lickety Split. While LECA reduces the likelihood of certain soil-borne pests, you might still encounter common houseplant nuisances like spider mites, aphids, or mealybugs.

Regularly inspect your plant for any signs of pests. Look under the leaves and along the stems, checking for tiny webs, sticky residue, or discolored spots. If you find any unwanted guests, you can wipe them off with a damp cloth or use an insecticidal soap specifically designed for houseplants.

Another preventive measure is to keep your plant clean. Dust can attract pests, so gently wiping the leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks can help deter them. Plus, clean leaves mean better photosynthesis, which is always a win for your plant's health.

Pruning and Encouraging Growth

Pruning your Philodendron Lickety Split isn't just about aesthetics. Regular pruning encourages healthier growth and can prevent the plant from becoming too leggy. When you see a leaf that's yellowing or looking past its prime, don't be afraid to snip it off with clean scissors.

Pruning also helps you shape the plant, giving it a fuller appearance. If you notice any stems growing awkwardly or too long, trim them back to promote bushier growth. It's a bit like giving your plant a haircut, and who doesn't feel refreshed after a trim?

After a good pruning session, your plant might start sprouting new growth, which is always exciting to see. Just ensure you're keeping up with its water and nutrient needs during this time, as new growth can demand more resources.

Final Thoughts

Growing Philodendron Lickety Split in LECA offers a refreshing alternative to traditional soil, providing excellent drainage and promoting healthy root systems. From selecting the right LECA to mastering the watering routine and nutrient needs, you've got the steps needed to keep your plant thriving.

At Cafe Planta, we're passionate about helping you succeed in your plant journey. Whether you're looking for new additions to your collection or need plant care accessories, we've got you covered. If you have questions or need advice, feel free to email us or reach out on Instagram. We believe plants bring us closer to nature and to each other, and we're here to support your green endeavors.