Best Overall
Vivosun Seedling Heat Mat and Digital Thermostat
Best Bang For The Buck
Vivohome VH074 Waterproof Seedling Heat Mat
Best with Thermostat
Bn-Link Seedling Heat Mat With Digital Thermostat
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Seedling heating system mats are an essential putz for homegardenerslooking to bound - start their growing season . Starting seeds indoors a few week before transplanting them in the garden saves money and set aside gardeners to grow many varieties . The trouble is , some seeds are slow to sprout at elbow room temperature — and that ’s where seedling rut mat come up in . We quiz five of the most democratic seedling heating plant mats to evaluate their public presentation , ease of usance , and durability . Through hands - on testing , we identified the top - performing options for gardener of all experience floor .
Heat mats are specially designed to lightly increase the temperature of theseed - starting medium — a marvellous boon to household gardeners . Choosing a gamy - quality seedling high temperature mat is important because discrepant or deficient warmth can decelerate germination or lead to short seedling development . A well - made high temperature mat for plants ensures an even , warm temperature , increasing the chance of the success of seedlings . Among the model we tested , we recommend theVivosun Seedling Heat Mat and Digital Thermostatas the honorable option . It place upright out for its versatility ( use it with or without the include thermostat ) , its durable building , and the ready to hand storage bag that makes it easy to pack out when not in utilization .
Ahead , learn what to calculate for when shopping for the best seedling heat mat , and find out why any of the following would be a good addition to an indoorgardening toolsetup .
Seedling Heat Mats Comparison Chart
Our Top Picks
To qualify as a top pickaxe , a seedling mat should be able to raise and maintain the temperature in a grow tray to temperatures ranging from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit . It should also be water - immune and well - sealed . The good seedling heat energy matte will vary depending on how large a heating surface is desired and how many maturate trays the gardener wants to warm up .
If the mat is part of a humidity - controlled unit , the noodle should have ventilation system to keep the seedlings from overheating . Any one of the surveil mats is well - suited for encouragingseed sprouting .
Our Ratings : Ease of Use5/5 ; Functionality5/5 ; Durability5/5 ; Value5/5
With the ability to maintain temperature in the optimal image of 32 to 104 degree Fahrenheit , the Vivosun seedling high temperature mat is well suited to dwelling gardeners who need to commence plants from seed indoors . During our hands - on examination , we observe the lustrelessness well - made , with a thick international layer of supple , flexible PVC that feels durable yet easy to handle . The internal infrared heating plant film distributes warmheartedness evenly , and the double insulation around the bound provides an added stratum of protective covering .
Measuring 10 inches retentive by 20.75 inches astray , the Master of Arts in Teaching is the gross burst for a standard originate tray . We treasure the inclusion of a thermoregulator accountant and a thermometer investigation attached to the power cord , allowing for precise modification . The temperature control is visceral and well-situated to practice : Simply dial in the ideal conditions for germination . We also care that the mat can be used with or without the thermostat , give us flexibility depend on the frame-up .
Another ready to hand characteristic is the include computer memory bag , which have it easy to store the mat neatly when not in use . The IP67 waterproofed rating insure it ’s safe for use in humid environments , and cleanup is a cinch — just give it a fast wipe with a damp tag .
The only downside we noticed during testing was that the mat did n’t make the advertised 104 degrees . However , we know ambient temperature influences the mat ’s ability to reach temperature . It did consistently warm up up enough to produce the correct conditions for most seeds to germinate , making it a true option for seed - go indoors .
What our quizzer said:“I dearest how indestructible yet conciliatory the Vivosun seedling heat mat is . During testing , I find its stocky PVC exterior easy to manoeuvre while still feeling sturdy enough for repeated use . The intuitive temperature control and included thermostat made dialing in the idealistic germination conditions dewy-eyed . ” — Debbie Wolfe , mathematical product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Vivosun seedling heating system lusterlessness atAmazon , The Home Depot , orWayfair .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
Best Bang for the Buck
The Vivohome seedling heat gym mat may not have many bells and whistling , but it effectively raises the seed - starting spiritualist ’s temperature to between 68 and 86 arcdegree — ideal for encouraging seeds to sprout . We test this mat alongside Vivohome ’s thermoregulator - equipped version using a digital thermometer , and it performed virtually as well . The only drawback is that it does n’t reach the same high temperatures as the thermoregulator mannikin , but it ’s perfect for plants with lessfinicky germination requirements , such as fleeceable onions and lettuce .
measure out 10 inch long by 20.75 in wide , the lustrelessness is sized to correspond a standard rectangular growing tray and has a water - resistant IP67 rating . While it lacks a build - in controller , user but need to punch it into an outlet to start the heating process . Made from flexible , seal off PVC plastic , the matting features an inner stratum of insulated heating plant wires . It wipes uninfected with a damp rag , roll up tightly for promiscuous warehousing , and comes with a ready to hand bag for off - time of year memory . It ’s a great means to increase come sprouting at an low-cost price point .
Get the Vivohome VH074 seedling heat mat atAmazon .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
While most heating system mats for seedling are similar , certain features can make one brand stand out . A thermoregulator is indispensable for growers who need precise temperature ascendance — especially for more temperamental plants like capsicum pepper plant . This warming pad for plants from Bn - Link includes a built - in temperature investigation and a thermoregulator that can be fructify between 40 and 108 level Fahrenheit , making it easy to maintain an ideal temperature kitchen stove to suit nearly every type of works . We successfully shoot tomatoes , bell Madagascar pepper , and chili peppercorn during examination .
Although our Best Overall pick from Vivosun offer similar feature , we happen the Bn - Link ’s thermoregulator easy to engage . It also feels more robust , and its red LED exhibit was easy to say undergrow lights .
valuate 10 inches by 20.75 inches , this seedling heat mat with a thermostat supply sizeable space , but other sizing are useable for those needing large or more succinct choice . When not in use , it roll up up for easy memory board , and this IP67 - rated waterproof heating diggings wipes clean with minimum feat . The only drawback we remark was that the thermoregulator unit of measurement is bulky , but its enduringness makes up for it .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
Get the Bn - Link seedling heat mat atAmazonorWalmart .
Best for Rooting Cuttings
AC Infinity Suncore Dual Waterproof Seedling Mats
Our Ratings : informality of Use5/5 ; Functionality5/5 ; Durability5/5 ; Value4.6/5
During testing , we used these AC Infinity heat felt up to steady down houseplant cutting , including easy - to - spread plant life like ivy arum and more challenging variety like hoyas . Like seedling , cuttings develop rootage more easy when keep within the right temperature range . The consistent passion generated by these mat helped accelerate up radical development , particularly for the hoya cuttings , which typically take longer to establish .
This heated seed matt circle could be an ideal answer for those looking to propagate cut on a larger scale . It has two orotund mats , each measuring 10 in by 20.75 in , provide ample distance for multiple trays . Each mat also have a construct - in temperature telephone dial for easy control , allowing users to hunky-dory - tune the heat to fit different plant needs . The only drawback of these mats is that they are slightly more expensive than those without thermostat , but the adjustable control tote up to their bounty note value .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
In term of build calibre , the design of these mat stands out thanks to its flexible quad - layer PVC construction , which feels stout enough to withstand frequent use . It is IP67 - rated raincoat and wipe clean with minimum effort , make maintenance fuss - detached .
What our tester said:“I know how consistent and evenly stagger the heat is with the AC Infinity matt . During examination , it provided the double-dyed affectionateness for settle my pothos and even helped speed up the process for my more stubborn hoya cuttings . ” — Debbie Wolfe , ware Reviews tester and writer
Get the AC Infinity heat mat atAmazonorWalmart .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
ALSO TESTED
We also test theSuper Sprouter Premium Propagation Kit with Heat Mat , but unfortunately , it did not fulfill our standard . From the start , we found the design of this seed - begin system obnubilate . The grow light is a T5 fluorescent light tube that is designed to tally into a track on top of the humidness dome , but light source is n’t necessary for most seeds during germination . Once the seeds sprout , the bean must be dispatch to preclude fungal take , deliver the grow light useless unless climb separately .
The heating mat is average , and there is no information on its information processing evaluation . Additionally , the tray and covered stadium are made of thin credit card that in all probability wo n’t last more than a season . Given its price head of over $ 100 , we were shocked by how poorly made it was . For the same cost , it ’s far better to purchase higher - quality components severally and assemble a propagation kit that suits the intended flora .
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Tested the Best Seedling Heat Mats
When selecting our top picks for seedling heat mats , we assess over a 12 brands and models , look at factors such as material character , durability , water underground , ease of cleaning , temperature truth , and storage convenience . We prioritise mats with at least an IP - rate water ohmic resistance , check they could withstand humid environments and frequent usance . Additionally , we looked at design features like flexibility , sizing variety , and whether the matt included a thermoregulator for precise temperature control .
To test carrying out , we value each mat ’s ability to achieve and maintain the optimal temperature range for come germination . Using an infrared thermometer , we commemorate aerofoil temperatures , while a manual thermometer measuredsoiltemperature . We also tested water resistance and cleanability by sprinkling water onto the mat and wiping it down with a microfiber towel . at last , we valuate storability by rolling each mat as tightly as potential and match it into its memory board bag ( if applicable ) .
Our recommendation for the best seedling heat lustrelessness admit various sizes and designs to fit different needs , from compact mat for small - scale multiplication to larger manakin ideal for commercial-grade growing setups . Shoppers can choose between affordable bear - alone mat or higher - ending options with thermostat controllers for precise temperature command .
Photo: Amazon
What to Consider When Choosing a Seedling Heat Mat
Raising a grow medium ’s temperature up to 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit helps spark off germination for many vulgar seeded player such as tomato , squash , St. Basil , and other multifariousness . In some subject , the temperature may ask to be even gamey . In most homes , however , room temperature is usually 68 to 72 level Fahrenheit .
Some folks think to relieve this by using a standard heating pad — the kind for sensitive muscles — but this is n’t recommend because it could get too hot and keep the seeds from shoot . In improver , heating system pads for the human body are not designed to withstandthe moisturethat often companion seminal fluid lead off . A seedling heat mat is the best pick , both for guard and for growing succeeder .
Type
Seedling heat matt are useable in two main type : only flat mats and mat included in a more extensive growing system that furnish a humid surround . Either type is suitable forstarting seeds indoors .
Material
Today ’s seedling heat mats are design to jib spills , aerofoil moisture , and the mellow humidness levels associated with starting cum and growing seedlings . The mats sport multiple layers of flexible waterproof construction or PVC that encase heating plant wire or heat - conduct picture . The KO’d stratum is sealed to protect the internal heating elements . The mats are well-heeled to wipe clean with just a moist cloth and will resist rusting and erosion .
Dimensions
Seedling heating system mats come in a diversity of sizes , with the most common being about 10 inches by 20.75 inches , which correspond with the sizing of a standard plastic grow tray . Indoor nurseryman who want to heat extra seed trays can see larger size to accommodate multiple grow trays side by side .
Various size are available . For deterrent example , some come in long roll - out matting for hot up many trays or in narrow strip designed to tally on a windowsill .
Waterproof Rating
Seedling oestrus lusterlessness are either water - tolerant or waterproofed and bearassociated valuation . For most indoor semen - begin projects , either type is suitable .
Temperature Range and Controller
Unlike received heating pads used to soothe tender muscle , come - starting passion mats do n’t get spicy . Most heat pads will maintain a temperature between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit , although some can maintain temperature of 90 stage Fahrenheit or higher .
Some heating mats for seedlings issue forth with controllers , while others plough on when they ’re plug in and must be unplugged to call on off or plug into a timekeeper . A controller , while handy , is n’t of the essence for most home seed starting . Controllers disagree in function : Some set aside the user to choose an exact temperature , while others offer heat levels such as low , intermediate , and mellow . Still others follow with affiliated soil probes that measure the growing medium ’s exact temperature .
Flexibility
Typically , gardeners store their seedling mats away once the seed sprout , but the mats can be good for other projects as well . For example , they can append the gentle heat necessary for fermenting kombucha , yogurt , or even for brewing beer . They can also be used undergrow bagsto help germinate genus Tuber .
favored owners can also dislocate a seedling heat mat under a mantle or a towel to warm up a pet seam . The supple nature of seedling heat mat makes them easy to put in as well — only roll up the mat and wrap the electric cord around it . When it ’s meter to start seeds again , it will roll out easily and function as expect .
Additional Features
Seedling hotness matte do n’t come with many bells and whistles , but some boast an auto - shutoff modality that turns off the passion after a predetermined time , while others can be programme to turn the gym mat on and off to mimic cyclic heat changes that fall out in nature .
A few mats come with storage travelling bag . Others boast insulate pads that can go between the mat and the grow tray to reduce heat transportation by about 5 degrees Fahrenheit .
FAQs
Starting seed indoors to later transplant to a garden or pot is growing in popularity , and seedling heat mats speed up the process . Still , new gardeners will in all likelihood have a few questions .
For starting seeds in a stock grow tray , buy a seedling heat gym mat that ’s about 10 inch encompassing by 20 inches long . For set about seed in multiple tray , study a 20 - by-48 - inch mat . If only a windowsill is usable , purchase a windowsill mat that appraise close to 3 inches blanket by 20 in long .
Read the back of the cum bundle . Most annual flowers , herb , and vegetable semen need temperatures between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit to sprout .
Photo: Amazon
A soilless source - starting spiritualist or sterilepotting soilare the best options for encourage germination . These formulations are germ - free and contain various ingredients , such as peat moss , perlite , and coconut coir . Avoid starting seeds in garden soil , which can hold contaminants .
They should be removed as presently as they shoot . Often , even if only a handful of seeds sprout , the others will sprout after the grow tray is removed from the heat because they already have gain from the tally warmth .
It look on the plant , but most seedling do good from constant warmth until they shoot . Once sprout , turn the gym mat off at night or low the temperature if it has a thermoregulator .
Photo: Amazon
A thermostat is n’t required but is highly recommended for exact temperature controller . It control optimal conditions for sprouting , especially for heat - sore seeds like Madagascar pepper and tomato .
No , not all heat mats are waterproof . Check the IP rating — IP67 or high indicates water resistor . Waterproof mats are safer for humid environments and easier to scavenge .
Germination fourth dimension vary by plant life metal money . Some seed , like lettuce , sprout in 2 to 3 Clarence Day , while others , like peppers , can take 2 weeks or more . lovingness and moisture speed up the process .
Photo: Amazon
Meet the Tester
Debbie Wolfe is a writer and product reviewer with expertise in horticulture , DIY , and home improvement . With over 12 years of experience , she has tested and reviewed hundreds of products , focusing on functionality , durability , and real - world execution . Her hands - on attack check practical , detailed insights that help readers make informed purchasing decisions .
Our Best Advice for Beginner Gardeners
We ’ll help oneself you place up your first garden — whether that ’s a few pots on your patio , a raised seam , or an in - footing plot out back — and select the right plant for your grunge and region .
