In the field of hydroponics, clay pebbles, also known as arlites, have emerged as versatile and efficient substrates for growing plants, and more specifically for cannabis.
These lightweight, iron-enriched, arid ceramics underwent several treatment processes before becoming preferred growing media.
In this article, we will explore in detail the steps involved in preparing clay pebbles, the different hydroponic growing systems suitable for their use, and we will provide precise guidelines to ensure flourishing growth of cannabis plants.
How are clay balls made?
Clay beads are produced through a complex process that begins with a light, arid ceramic mixed with iron. This combination undergoes various phases, including firing, during which the iron evaporates, thus creating pores within the clay beads.
This permeable texture not only makes them lighter, but also better suited to root growth and the circulation of water and nutrients.
How to choose the right hydroponic growing system with clay pebbles?
Since there are several hydroponic growing options, it is important to select the system best suited to clay pebbles.
Among these processes, two systems stand out: flooding and drip irrigation.
Flooding is very well suited to circulation systems, while drip irrigation is ideal for growing in pots or trays.
This harmony between the substrate and the growing system is essential for maximizing results.
How to use clay pebbles in hydroponic cannabis cultivation?
The different techniques to apply for optimal use of clay pebbles in hydroponic cannabis cultivation are:
- Prior stabilization of the clay balls;
- Hydroponic cultivation;
- Drip irrigation with clay pebbles;
- Optimizing plant nutrition in clay pebbles;
- Rinsing and root care;
- The use of hydrogen peroxide;
The prior stabilization of the clay balls
Before introducing clay pebbles into the cannabis growing system, it is important to prepare them properly. Since clay pebbles are not sterile and may contain impurities, washing and stabilization are necessary.
Hydroponic system cultivation
Hydroponic systems consist of deep trays filled with clay pebbles. These systems allow for precise and uniform irrigation thanks to a vertical tube that indicates the fill level.
Drip irrigation with clay pebbles
In drip irrigation systems using clay pebbles, the homogeneity of humidity in the pots is very important.
This is why strategic placement of the drippers is necessary to ensure uniform distribution.
Optimizing plant nutrition in clay pebbles
Clay pebbles allow excellent oxygenation of the roots and precise management of nutrition.
EC levels are therefore moderate, with a limit of 1.2 during growth and 1.6 during flowering.
Rinsing and root care
Circulating hydroponic systems require periodic root flushing. For this purpose, an auxiliary reservoir with a low EC is essential to avoid completely emptying the main reservoir.
The use of hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide (H2CO2) is an effective disinfectant for clay pebbles. It is used to clean the substrate and disinfect the growing environment.
Co-founder of CBD.fr
Julien Cordobes is the editor of CBD.fr. Born in 1978 in the Paris region, he first trained in e-commerce before turning to natural health approaches, a dual perspective that now structures his way of writing about cannabidiol: reading the scientific literature as it is, without hardening the conclusions, and presenting it in a language that everyone understands.
He discovered CBD at a time when the French market was developing faster than the information available to it. He acquired CBD.fr in 2022 and then took on editorial responsibility for the blog. Since then, he has published numerous articles covering the daily use of CBD, the interpretation of laboratory analyses, the evolution of the legal framework, and precautions for use.
