Seed Starting Essentials- Plastic Seed Trays, Seed Starting Kits, Seedling
Propagation Mats, More
As winter progresses and turns into spring, home gardeners begin to stock
up on seeds and seed starting supplies. We begin to chomp at the bit, in
eager anticipation of the new growing season. All winter long, we stockpile
seed trays, seed starting kits, seedling propagation mats, peat pots, peat
pellets, and propagation trays. We also acquire abundant amounts of seed
starting soil, peat pellets, peat pots, and peat strips.
Here are some descriptions that will help you to determine what seed starting
materials and supplies you will want to use:
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Plastic Seed Trays with plastic pots (or inserts)- These are less
expensive than peat pots and pellets. They can often be used over again.
Plastic pots are great when you have a lot of seedlings to start. They are
more commonly used with flowers and herbs. Be careful when transplanting
to minimize disturbance to the roots. Some seedlings can get root bound,
if left in plastic pots for an prolonged period.
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Plastic Seed Trays with peat strips- For those who like
peat pots, a seedling tray with peat strips is the way to go. Square pots,
in strips of 5 to 8 pots, fit neatly into the tray. Refills are available.
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Seed Trays with peat pellets- The seedling tray is neatly filled
with peat pellets. Many have a plastic insert to keep the pellets perfectly
spaced. Trays are reusable. Replacement pellets are readily available.
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Dome Covers for Seed Trays- Seed trays come with or without a
dome cover. The dome covers serve two purposes: First, they help to retain
moisture, and keep the soil from drying out. Secondly, they raise the temperature
of the soil, speeding germination.
Dome covers are great. But, using them carries a serious risk. The extra
heat and moisture encourages damping off disease, an often fatal disease
of seedlings. When using the covers, watch for excess moisture, and remove
the cover frequently to allow excess moisture to escape. After the seedlings
have sprouted, you may want to discontinue using the cover.
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Peat Pots- They come round or square, in various sizes. Round
is by far more popular. Fill them with your favorite seed starting mix. Using
peat pots minimizes transplant shock, as the roots are undisturbed.. At planting
time, transplant seedling in the pot right into the garden. Roots will easily
grow through the pots.
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Peat Pellets- They're small and compact...until you add water.
Then, they expand ito a convenient seed starter. A delicate mesh material
holds this "ball of peat" together. Many gardeners like the ease of use.
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Seed starting soil (or mix)- The primary ingredients are
sphagnum peat moss and perlite. The soil mix is properly pH balanced. This
rich, lightweight soil, allows your seedlings to easily emerge from the soil.
And, it allows roots to readily grow and spread through the soil mix.
Manufacturers often fortify the mix with nutrients needed for early season
growth.
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Heated Germination Mats (or Propagation Mats)- Home gardeners
who have germination mats, rightfully swear by them. It is a gardening essential
for some hard to start seeds.
It is a proven fact that the bottom heat provided by propagation mats speeds
seedling germination, and increases germination rates. It helps to promote
healthy, vigorous seedling growth. Over the years, these mats pay for themselves
over and over again.
After seeds have emerged, remove the germination mat. As the roots spread
downward, the higher heat can actually hurt the young, tender roots.
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Transplanting Tips:
Time the transplanting of your seedlings to after the last frost date for
your area.
Don't leave your seedlings in trays and pots too long. As soon as roots emerge
from the peat pots or pellets, it is time to transplant them (weather
permitting).
Transplanting on cloudy days, helps to minimize transplant shock.
As planting time nears, "harden off" seedlings by placing them outdoors
for progressively longer periods of time.
More Information:
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