Pon on hydroponics
What's Happening
Lechuza-Pon is a proprietary mineral substrate blend designed for passive hydroponic systems. Composed of zeolite, pumice, and lava rock with slow-release fertilizer, Pon provides the structural benefits of LECA plus built-in pH buffering and initial nutrition. The zeolite component acts as an ion-exchange medium that stabilizes pH and stores nutrients for gradual release. Unlike LECA, Pon contains fines (smaller particles) that increase capillary action and wicking efficiency while maintaining aeration through the porous rock structure.
How to Fix It
- 1
Use Pon as a complete system: Do not layer or mix with other media
- 2
Initial setup: Fill pot, plant at appropriate depth, add water to reservoir indicator line
- 3
Transition period: Use plain pH-adjusted water for first 2-3 weeks to avoid fertilizer overload on soil-adapted roots
- 4
Ongoing care: After 6-9 months, switch to standard hydroponic nutrients at 1.0-1.4 EC
- 5
Flushing protocol: Every 8-12 weeks, flush pot with plain pH water to remove accumulated salts
How to Prevent It
Do not mix Pon with soil or organic matter as this defeats the purpose of an inert, pest-free system. Allow the slow-release fertilizer to deplete (approximately 6-9 months) before beginning regular hydroponic nutrient feeding. Monitor pH weekly during the first month as the zeolite buffering can initially raise pH above optimal levels for some plants.