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Pros and cons of clay pebbles (hydroton) in hydroponics

Clay pebbles or hydroton (sometimes referred to as LECA – light expanded clay aggregate) are a hydroponic substrate with units about the size of marbles or peanuts. Because they’re so lightweight, easy for transplanting and harvesting, and easy on the hands, they’re a favorite of small producers using media bed or Dutch bucket techniques. Clay pebbles can also be used in both hydroponic and aquaponic systems.

Pros of hydroton

High pore space means less blockages
Some air-holding capacity to keep root zones oxygenated
Fairly renewable & environment-friendly
Reusable
Easy to plant and harvest
Good colonization for microbial populations

Cons of hydroton

Water holding capacity leaves something to be desired
Fairly costly
Can cause problems with pumps and plumbing

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