The Best Seed Starting Trays to Start Seeds Indoors

Essential Tips for Efficient Seed Starting

Tip #1: Watering Techniques

There are two primary methods for watering your seedlings: top watering and bottom watering. While some gardeners experience fungal issues linked to over-moistening the soil from the top, I prefer to bottom water by filling the catch tray beneath the seed starting setup. This way, the seedlings can draw moisture from below without risking excess humidity on the soil surface.

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Tip #2: Safe Seedling Removal

When you're ready to transfer your seedlings out of the trays, a simple butter knife can be your ally. Gently run it along the side of the soil to free the seedling for easy extraction.

Tip #3: Tray Maintenance

Prior to using your trays for new seeds, always ensure they are clean and disinfected. After transplanting seedlings, I make it a habit to wash my trays thoroughly and allow them to dry well before storing. When beginning anew, soaking them in a diluted bleach solution—9 parts water to 1 part bleach—can eliminate any harmful bacteria that may linger.

Do You Need a Heating Mat for Seed Germination?

In my gardening experience, I've managed perfectly well without a heating mat. However, many avid gardeners and farmers find that using one promotes quicker germination rates. While not essential, a heating mat can be a beneficial tool in cooler spaces.

Consider adding a dome as well. Although I've gone through phases of using them, I've found that they are not absolutely necessary if your environment is adequately warm. A dome could provide needed warmth and humidity if your starting space is below 72°F.

Finding Your Ideal Propagation Tray

Determining the ideal size for cell plug trays hinges on a few key factors. We'll delve into various choices to assist you in selecting what meets your needs. First, reflect on your goals for seed starting.

Preferred Size of Cell Trays

Here are some questions to guide your selection:

• Are you propagating a large volume of one crop type for row plantings?

• Do you prefer growing small quantities of diverse plant varieties?

• Will you be planting all crops simultaneously or utilizing a succession planting strategy?

• What types of seeds do you intend to grow—like peppers, tomatoes, or lettuce?

• What is the size of your seeds?

• How long do you need your seedlings to remain in the cell trays?

• Will you pot up your seedlings or transfer directly from the plug trays?

• How much protected space do you have available for seed starting?

• Are you using a heating mat or relying on existing room temperatures for germination?

For visual guidance, check out the How to Size and Use Cell Insert Propagation Trays video, showcasing common usage techniques.

Comparison of Seed Starting Trays

Best Cell Seed Trays for Home Gardens

4 Cell Seed Starting Trays

Our redesigned larger 4-cell plug inserts allow for deeper growth, accommodating crops requiring extra room. A Bootstrap Farmer tray can hold eight of these inserts.

6 Cell Seed Starting Trays

Our 6-cell trays feature significant drainage holes for easy removal of seedlings. With air pruning technology incorporated, they prevent root circling, minimizing complications during growth. They're available in vibrant colors, making variety organization straightforward.

Explore our Bundles & Kits for more.

32 Cell Seed Starting Trays

Bootstrap Farmer carries these 32-cell plug trays, measuring 2" x 2". They're suitable for dense growth configurations.

These can be filled directly with soil or held in shallow trays without holes for simple transport.

Recommended Plants: Tomatoes, melons, cucumbers, pumpkins, squash, peppers.

50 Cell Seed Starter Trays

These trays balance space optimization with capacity, making them suitable for a variety of seedlings. They support broader soil volume, giving your plants more chances for healthy growth.

Recommended Plants: Lettuce, brassicas, cucumbers, herbs.

The company excels as a global supplier of large plastic trays for plants. Rely on us for your needs with our professional team to assist in finding the best products.

Choosing the Right Cell Trays for Market Gardens

72 Cell Plug Seedling Trays & 72 Cell Air Prune Trays

The popular choice among market gardeners, these trays provide good balance. Each cell measures 1.5" square, making them suitable for various plants.

Opt for 72 air prune trays to enhance air circulation for optimal growth.

Recommended Plants: Sunflowers, peppers, vine crops, and cole crops.

128 Cell Trays

Ideal for growing rows of greens, these trays allow for extensive planting. They increase the volume of seedlings managed and are compatible with bottom watering.

Recommended Plants: Lettuce, herbs, cole crops.

200 Cell Trays

These economical trays enable high-density growth for lettuce and similar crops. Each cell needs careful management to avoid root-binding.

Recommended Plants: Lettuce, brassicas, small-seeded flowers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Seed Starting

Can I Grow Root Crops in Plug Trays?

While some experienced gardeners may grow certain root crops in cell trays, it is generally inadvisable due to their reliance on undisturbed taproots for healthy development.

Is it Possible to Plant Onions and Leeks in Starting Trays?

Yes, members of the allium family can thrive in trays due to their adaptable root structures, making them resilient during transplanting.

What are the Benefits of Starting Seeds in Cell Trays Compared to Larger Pots?

Cell trays facilitate higher seedling density and require less growing medium, optimizing space significantly for large-scale plantings.

Can Overwatering Occur in Seed Trays?

Yes, overwatering seedlings is quite possible, leading to reduced oxygen availability. Ensure any extra water is discarded after watering.

Related: Easiest Way to Water Seedlings

How Long Can Seedlings Remain in Cell Trays?

While seedlings may stay in trays for a month or more, their freedom from root binding increases with cell volume.

Explore our offerings, including 3.3" seed starters or 5" pots for up-potting.

What if My Transplants Aren't Growing?

Seedlings left in plug trays too long typically show root binding. This effect results in stunted growth, often compounded by transplant shock.

When transplanting root-bound seedlings, tease apart the roots gently to encourage new growth.

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Contact our knowledgeable sales team regarding your needs for 104 Cells Growing Seedlings Trays. We are here to help you discover the perfect solutions for your gardening endeavors.