Fine 0–5 mm LECA clay pebbles for small terrariums and plant arrangements

LECA (Clay Pebbles) for Terrariums

€7,90

Grain size 0–5 mm — Fine 5–10 mm — Medium 10–20 mm — Coarse

Bag Size 2 L 1 L 0.5 L 0.25 L

Clean and ready to use
Works in open and closed terrariums
Suitable for drainage layers

In stock

LECA, also known as expanded clay pebbles, is a lightweight and porous material suitable for creating a drainage layer in terrariums, pots and plant containers.

In a terrarium, LECA can be used at the bottom of the composition, below the main growing substrate. Its porous structure creates space for excess water to collect below the root zone, helping keep the drainage area separate from the soil substrate.

Different grain sizes allow you to choose a suitable fraction depending on the size of your container and the scale of your composition. 0–5 mm is suitable for smaller and more detailed compositions, 5–10 mm for medium-sized containers, and 10–20 mm for larger containers and compositions where a coarser drainage material is preferred.

LECA can be used in both closed and open terrariums, as well as with houseplants, pots and planters.

Rinse the material before use to remove dust. Choose the grain size according to your container and the structure of the other materials in your composition.

Available in 0–5 mm, 5–10 mm and 10–20 mm grain sizes, with 0,25L - 0,5L - 1 L - 2 L pack options.

LECA pebbles are packed securely to prevent spillage during transport.

This is a non-living product and follows standard shipping and return conditions.

Use: bottom drainage layer

Preparation: rinse before use to remove dust

Placement: terrariums, pots, planters

Choose grain size according to container scale.

Larger containers benefit from larger pebbles.

Mossy trusts what lets water move freely.

Good drainage keeps everything else in balance.

What Your Terrarium Really Needs

Gentle guidance on natural substrates, drainage, and coverings — no complexity required.

What are the essential layers in a closed terrarium?

From bottom to top:

Drainage layer: 2.5–5 cm — natural pebbles, river stones, gravel, or LECA/clay balls. Catches excess water to protect roots.
Activated charcoal (thin layer): 0.5–1 cm — filters water, reduces odors, prevents mold. A little goes a long way.
Barrier (optional): Sheet of sphagnum moss or landscape fabric to stop soil mixing downward.
Substrate/soil: 5–10 cm, depending on plant roots — light, aerated mix (peat-free potting soil + perlite/coco coir/orchid bark). Avoid dense garden soil.
Top layer: Live sheet moss, preserved moss, or natural stones/bark — thin covering for humidity and aesthetics.

This setup creates a self-sustaining cycle where water condenses and recirculates naturally.

How much of each material do I need?

Rough guide for a medium jar 1–2 liter:

Drainage: 2.5–5 cm
Charcoal: 0.5–1 cm
Soil: 5–10 cm — enough for roots but leave headspace for plants and air.

Scale proportionally for larger/smaller containers — always prioritize observation over exactness.

What’s the best drainage material?

Natural river pebbles or polished stones (like our MossBoss drainage pebbles) in small-medium size (0.6–1.3 cm) for good airflow and gaps. Alternatives: aquarium gravel, lava rock, or LECA. Avoid sharp materials that could scratch glass or roots.

What soil/substrate should I use?

Light and draining:

ABG mix (orchid bark, tree fern fiber, sphagnum, charcoal) for bioactive.
Simple blend: peat-free potting mix + 20–30% perlite/coco coir + some charcoal.
No added fertilizers — low-nutrient is best for balance.

Can I use decorative items like colored stones, glass beads, or figurines?

Yes, but keep it minimal and natural: polished river stones, slate, bark, or driftwood. Avoid painted, glazed, or metallic items — they risk leaching in humidity. Rule: if it doesn't support the ecosystem, skip it.

Where can I source good materials in Bulgaria?

We stock natural drainage pebbles, activated charcoal, live/preserved moss, substrates, and tools at www.mossboss.bg — chosen for calm, long-term terrariums.

If you're assembling one now, share your jar size (in cm or inches) or plant types — we'll suggest precise layer depths and materials in our voice. Care for something real.

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