Are seed starter trays worth it?

When it comes to gardening, the options available can be expansive and, frankly, overwhelming. This can lead to indecision, especially for beginners considering seed starter trays.

How do you ensure your investment in seed trays is worthwhile? What factors should be taken into consideration? Here, we aim to clarify the merits and drawbacks of different seed trays and assist you in making an informed decision.

Purpose of Seed Trays

Seed trays are essential tools designed to hold soil and support the healthy growth of seedlings prior to transplanting. Utilizing a single tray for multiple seeds offers simplicity in watering and movement as you only need to manage one unit when transferring to the garden.

Most seed trays come in standard shapes that allow them to fit snugly into bottom watering trays, but their greatest differences emerge from the number of individual cells per tray.

Cell Dimensions: A Critical Factor

The number of cells in seed trays can vary significantly, ranging from as few as 32 cells to over 288. Generally, as the cell count increases, the individual cell size decreases. Thus, a 50-cell tray features bigger cells than a 72-cell variety.

Your choice should take into account both personal preference and the specific requirements of the seeds you choose to plant. Smaller cells might hinder a seedling's growth because they limit root expansion.

Recommendation: Optimal Seed Tray

For many, the 72 cell tray strikes a pragmatic balance. It offers adequate space for most flower varieties without necessitating an intermediate repotting phase prior to transplanting into the garden. Personally, I favor the 72 cell seed tray from Bootstrap Farmer, known for its durability and reliability over multiple seasons.

Using Alternative Trays for Unique Needs

128-Cell Seed Trays

If you're encountering germination issues, utilizing tools such as heat mats and humidity domes may aid your seedlings. A 128-cell tray allows for numerous seeds to be sown while fitting well on heat mats; however, continual monitoring for root space is essential.

50-Cell Seed Trays

Particularly for plants like sweet peas that require more extensive root space, a 50-cell tray is advisable. In fact, I now prefer the extra deep 50-cell trays for this reason, although they can complicate moisture regulation compared to standard depth trays.

Channel Trays: A Unique Approach

If small seeds present a challenge, channel trays may be an excellent alternative. They enable you to pour seeds into soil-filled channels, which can save time and offer a less meticulous method of sowing. These trays can be an efficient way to manage sparse germination, allowing you to focus on seedlings that successfully sprout.

Promising New Seed Trays

This season, I'm trialing some innovative trays promoting air pruning, which encourage healthier root systems without sacrificing the advantages of conventional seed trays. While they require an investment, their potential for robust seedling development may justify the cost.

Final Thoughts

In summary, selecting the right seed trays plays a vital role in nurturing healthy plants. There’s a range of options, each catering to different needs and preferences. Whatever you choose, ensure it aligns with your gardening goals.

I'd love to hear your experiences with various seed trays. Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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