5 Things to Know Before Buying Reusable Seed Starting Trays

1. Material and Durability: When choosing reusable seed starting trays, the material and durability are key factors. Trays are typically made from plastic, and higher-quality plastics like polystyrene or polyethylene are more durable and resistant to cracking.

2. Drainage Capacity: It’s crucial that your trays have proper drainage holes. Excess water should be able to escape, ensuring that your seedlings do not suffer from root rot due to waterlogged soil.

3. Cell Size and Count: Different plants need different amounts of space to grow. Trays can range from 12-288 cells per tray. Picking the right size depends on what you are planting and the space you have available.

4. Compatibility with Equipment: Ensure that your seed trays fit well with other gardening equipment, such as heat mats and humidity domes, to create the optimal growing environment.

5. Price and Longevity: While some trays might be more expensive, investing in durable, higher-quality trays saves money in the long run since you won’t need to frequently replace them.

Understanding Seed Trays: My Favorite Seed Starting Trays

Let’s delve into some popular options available in the market, weighing their advantages and disadvantages, and learning from personal experiences to make an informed decision.

Standard Dimensions

Most seed starting trays are designed to fit commonly used bottom watering trays, usually of the 1020 size. This standardization helps in easy handling and storage.

Cell Size Impact on Growth

The number of cells in a tray significantly affects seedling growth. For example, 72-cell trays provide ample space for developing roots, making them particularly popular among gardeners.

The Importance of Durability

Bootstrap Farmer trays, known for their resilience even when filled with soil, are a testament to investing in quality. They offer durability, which justifies their slightly higher cost.

Specialized Trays for Unique Needs

Some seeds, like sweet peas, require more room to grow robustly. Using 50-cell deep trays ensures these plants develop a healthy root system.

Efficient Seedling Management

For crops with low germination rates or tiny seeds, 20-row channel trays simplify the process of planting and managing seedlings.

Innovative Solutions

Introducing air prune trays provides an advanced solution for preventing root binding while ensuring healthier root systems.

Expert Tips for Tray Usage

Proper watering, cleaning, and sometimes using heat mats or domes can enhance the seed-starting process, ensuring your seedlings get the best start possible.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right seed starting tray involves more than just picking any tray off the shelf. Consider material, size, durability, and compatibility with your existing equipment to ensure you’re making the best decision for your gardening needs. Share your experiences and choices; it’s always valuable to hear what works for other gardeners!