LECA®
What is leca® ?
How is it used for Hydroponics
LECA (Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate) is a growing medium made from natural clay that has been heated in a rotary kiln at high temperatures. During this process the clay expands and forms small, round porous balls that are lightweight and highly aerated.
Because of its structure, LECA allows both water and oxygen to move freely around plant roots, making it a popular growing medium for hydroponic systems and semi-hydroponic indoor plant setups.
Growers use LECA as an alternative to soil because it is clean, reusable, and provides excellent drainage, which helps prevent root rot and overwatering.
Types of leca® we offer
1
Round Granules
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Higher insulation (more closed pores)
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Better drainage (bigger gaps between granules)
2
Fragmented Granules
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Better moisture retention (more open pores)
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Better soil aeration (promotes healthy bacterias)
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Increases root biomass (sharp edges split and induce exponential root development)
Size of Granules
2-4mm Round
4-10mm Round
4-10mm Broken
10-20mm Round
Bag Sizes:
10 Litre
50 Litre
1000 Litre (1m3)
3000 Litre (3m3)
Benefits of leca®
Durable
Expanded clay is durable, has long lifetime and requires no maintenance
Adds Strength
Expanded clay can reduce the weight of concrete by almost 50% without compromising strength
Strong
It can be used as loose fill and insulation in road and rail embankments and can sustain dynamic loads from heavy high-speed trains
Recyclable
Expanded clay is 100% recyclable or reusable. There are no problems with disposing of demolition waste and no use of new materials, new resources or new energy
Lightweight
It is 4-5 times lighter than loose gravel or loose fill crushed stone
Resistant To Fire
It is classified as a fully non-combustible material. It has no reaction to fire, does not emit gases or smoke and retains its mechanical resistance and all other thermal and physical characteristics. It is an excellent protection against fire
Why Leca® is Popular for Hydroponics?
Key Benefits
Excellent Aeration
LECA pellets contain thousands of microscopic air pockets that allow oxygen to move freely around plant roots. This airflow supports healthy root respiration and encourages strong feeder root development.
Consistent Moisture Retention
The porous clay structure absorbs a small amount of water while still allowing excess moisture to drain away. This helps maintain a stable moisture level without keeping the roots constantly saturated.
Reusable Growing Medium
Because LECA is made from clay fired at extremely high temperatures, the pellets do not break down like organic growing media. They can be washed and reused for multiple growing cycles.
Low Risk of Root Rot
LECA prevents stagnant water from surrounding the roots. The combination of airflow and controlled moisture helps reduce conditions where root rot pathogens typically develop.
Stable Root Zone Conditions
Because LECA is an inert material, it does not decompose or significantly alter the nutrient solution, helping maintain more stable root zone conditions in hydroponic systems.
uses of leca®
Top layer
Drainage Media
Soil conditioner (moisture trap)
Vermiculite/Perlite Replacement
Hydroponics
Aquaponic
Orchid
Propogation/Cuttings
Values, Mission & vision
LECA® Values
They are dedicated to environmental protection and sustainability. LECA® LWA, offers numerous environmental benefits throughout its life cycle, from production to reuse. With their expertise, innovation, and commitment to customers, they ensure lasting solutions. LECA® prioritises transparency, collaboration, and continuous improvement to advance sustainability goals and build a greener future
LECA® Mission
Their mission is to minimise carbon footprint by enhancing industrial processes, recognising the value products bring to housing, infrastructure, and water management projects. Through innovative solutions, they aim to address the challenges of climate change, ultimately improving future living conditions. They are committed to benefiting the environment and communities worldwide.
LECA® Vision
They are committed to environmental stewardship, crafting and delivering resource-efficient products with a strong emphasis on sustainability. Their offerings not only alleviate the effects of climate change but also purify future water sources. Their aim is to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, aligning with Saint-Gobain's commitments and ensuring a cleaner, healthier planet for all.
Where to buy Leca®?
Norsag is the importer and distributor of LECA (Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate) used in hydroponics, indoor plant growing, propagation, and drainage applications. We sell LECA to nurseries, growers, landscapers, and plant enthusiasts across South Africa.
Based in Cape Town, Norsag provides consistent, high-quality LECA designed to support healthy root development by improving aeration and drainage around plant roots.
For product availability, bag sizes, and pricing enquiries, please contact Norsag directly.