Ready to ditch the dirt and give your Alocasia a glow-up? Transferring your plant baby from soil to LECA (Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate) is not just satisfying, it’s a whole vibe. Here’s how I made the switch, step by step:
1. Prep your LECA Balls
Before starting, rinse your LECA balls thoroughly until the water runs clear. Yes, it takes a few rounds, but your plant deserves clean shoes. Once the LECA is squeaky clean, soak it in a diluted liquid plant food of your choice. This will give your roots a little buffet once they move in.
2. Free the Roots
Gently remove your Alocasia from its pot and begin removing all the soil. A soft-bristled brush (like a clean, spare toothbrush) works wonders for stubborn clumps.
Inspect the roots and trim off any root rot with sterilized scissors. Only the healthy stuff gets to stay.
3. Give those Roots a Spa Treatment
Time for a root detox! Soak the roots in 3% hydrogen peroxide diluted in a 1:2 ratio (one part peroxide, two parts water) for about 15 minutes. After the soak, rinse the roots well with filtered or bottled water and gently pat them dry.
4. Assemble the LECA Home
Grab a clear glass vase (because we want to admire those roots) and start by adding a layer of your soaked LECA. Next, place your Alocasia in the center, spreading the roots out as much as possible. Carefully add more LECA to cover the roots. For an optional finishing touch, top it off with a layer of perlite for added aeration and aesthetics.
5. Add that Liquid Gold
Now for the magic touch: pour some of that liquid gold (aka the nutrient-rich water your LECA soaked in) into the bottom of the vase, just enough to cover the lowest layer of LECA, but not the roots.
LECA works like tiny sponges. It absorbs moisture and slowly releases it as the roots need it, providing a steady supply of nutrients and oxygen. Think of it as the perfect hydration system for your green diva.
6. Step Back and Admire
That’s it! You’ve just upgraded your Alocasia to a sleek, self-watering setup. It’s functional, beautiful, and low-maintenance – the trifecta of plant parenting.
Now you’ve got yourself a pretty plant to look at and a proud plant parent moment to soak in!
Mai Household Mayhem 