Clay pebbles

The clay balls are made from pure natural clay, without chemical additives.

The clay is shaped into balls and then fired in a rotary kiln at over 1000°C. This extreme temperature causes the clay to swell and creates thousands of micro-cavities inside, hence their lightness and drainage capacity.

Their honeycomb structure retains just enough moisture to create a favorable microclimate without ever becoming waterlogged.

Unlike gravel, they do not alter the pH of the substrate and remain stable for years.

Start by rinsing the marbles to remove manufacturing dust.

Pour a 2 to 5 cm layer into the bottom of the pot, depending on its depth. This layer prevents the substrate from clogging the drainage holes and creates a buffer zone where excess water can drain away.

Next, add your substrate on top. Never place a saucer filled with stagnant water under the pot, as this will negate the drainage effect.

A common mistake is packing the marbles too tightly. Leave them loose so that air can circulate freely.

All potted plants benefit from good drainage, but some are particularly sensitive to it.

Tropical plants like Monstera, Philodendron, and Anthurium hate having their roots in stagnant water, despite their need for humidity. Succulents and cacti require excellent drainage to prevent rot.

Calathea and Maranta appreciate the regulated humidity provided by a layer of beads on the surface.

Only semi-aquatic plants like Papyrus do not need it since they tolerate having their roots in water.

The problem rarely comes from the marbles themselves, but from how they are used.

First, check that your pot has drainage holes. Without drainage, water will accumulate in the layer of pebbles and rise by capillary action. Also, make sure the potting mix isn't too compact or too rich in peat, as this retains excess water.

Another common cause is overwatering. The clay pebbles slow down waterlogging but do not compensate for chronic overwatering.

If the pot has no drainage holes, use the clay pebbles in pure hydroponics, without substrate.

Yes, and it's even recommended for some plants that like very aerated soil.

Incorporate 10 to 20% clay pebbles into your substrate to lighten the mix and create permanent air pockets. The roots will colonize these spaces and have easier access to oxygen.

This technique is particularly suitable for Hoya, Anthurium, and orchids. Combine this method with ourHoya potting soilOrAnthurium potting soilalready formulated for drainage.

Avoid this mixture for plants that prefer constantly moist soil, such as ferns.

These three materials improve drainage but with distinct properties.

Clay pebbles are the largest and are mainly used at the bottom of pots. Their size prevents the potting mix from seeping through and clogging the drainage holes. Perlite, which is finer, mixes with the potting mix to aerate it without creating large air pockets. Pumice, of volcanic origin, is heavier and stabilizes the pots of larger plants.

For complete drainage, use clay pebbles at the bottom of the pot and perlite in the substrate.

Our enriched substrates already contain the necessary perlite, simply add the marbles as a drainage layer.