Which Hydroton is Better?

[Autumn Child]

I find only two type of LECA in the market. Both are sold in bulk and carries no packaging and instruction. Therefore i need expert advice from this forum:

first picture (brown surface with black core): the hydroton in this picture is light compare to the second denser hydroton. The first one seems innert and does not stir up too much silt in the water. The seller claimed that this LECA is used for aesthetic purpose and root support and does not wick-up water as efficiently. I have tried both and it seems that this particular LECA keeps moisture fairly well but not as good as the second one.

second picture:Solid red clay, significantly heavier and stirs up more silt when disturbed under water. It seems like clay balls that have not been fired properly. It is more fragile than the first one. The seller said that this particular hydroton is the most used one for growing chinese cymb. I find using this LECA easier because it darkens significantly when wet while the first hydroton need some poking around. I have used this LECA for over a month and my orchid, particularly Oncidium, seems to like it alot, while phals seems to maintain their health but not grow fast in this clay ball.

Do any of the expert here give me some insight about these two type of hydroton?

[Swamper]

Looks like you know way more than I do about them already. I use the first cause I like it lite (less filling, tastes great. JK. I guess they both have their purpose and in some situations where that extra weight can be the difference between support and a fall then I'd choose the heavier.

[John D.]

I think that your explanation of the differences is good. Neither is hydroton which is a brand name. Hydroton is similar to the one on the left but is uniformly round and a more red color. All are termed leca (lightweight expanded ceramic aggregate). The different clays and firing methods yield the different structures. Much of the material is made for lightweight cement structures.

[Autumn Child]

Thank you for correcting this newbie. I have changed the title and replace hydroton with LECA.

[Ray]

Each brand of LECA will have its own set of properties, but variations between them that might matter to one grower, may have no impact at all on a grower who has different conditions.

Personally, I'd go for the one of the left, but I would encourage you to get a small amount of each and try them.

[Autumn Child]

I just bought a huge amount of the red clay LECA and transfered as many orchid as possible, but I will also try the one on the left. I think I haven't given it enough time to compare. Thanks for the advice.