Best Overall
Vego Seed Starting Mixed Bundle Tray
Best Bang For The Buck
Jiffy 36 Peat Pellet Seed-Starting Greenhouse Kit
Best For Small Garden
Gardener’s Supply GrowEase Seed Starter Kit
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Starting plants from source can be rewarding and price - effectual forgardening , and one of the most all important tools for this unconscious process is a seeded player starting tray . These trays provide a check environment that promotes sprouting and sizable origin ontogeny , making them idealistic for both beginners and experient gardener . While some opt to purchase seedling or fledged plants , set out from seed offers greater form and control over the growing procedure .
Shopping for seminal fluid start trays can be overwhelming due to the many options available . tray amount in different way , material , and damage ranges , get it essential to encounter a high - quality product that suits your horticulture needs . We tested multiple seed tray , evaluating strength , drainage , and ease of use . While we find several top - perform choice , we also identified some standout selection we have n’t tested but highly recommend . Our top picking is theVego Seed Starting Mixed Bundle , which excels in strength and seedling success .
To help you choose the right choice , this guide play up fundamental feature article to reckon and put up expert recommendations . Read on for the near seed starting tray to enhance your horticulture succeeder .
Seed Starting Tray Comparison Chart
Our Top Picks
Now that you ’ve learned a bit about grow trays , it ’s time to start shopping . The watch over are our top picks for some of the just seedling starter trays for the home garden . ing . The following are our top picks for some of the skilful seedling starter tray for your home plate garden .
Our rating : Ease of Use5/5;Design5/5 ; Functionality5/5 ; Value5/5
When choosing seed - protrude tray , we prioritize reusability , breathing domes , and melodic line - prune twat for salubrious ascendent beforetransplanting . The Vego Garden Seed Starting Mixed Bundle check all the boxes . Its singular individual dome covers truly plant it apart , allowing for unspoilt control over each seedling ’s environs .
Made from durable injection - molded PPE plastic , the miscellaneous bundle includes a bottom tray that is 10 by 20 inches , four elephantine trays ( 4.75 inches long by 4.75 column inch wide-eyed with four 2.5 - inch by 2.5 - in cells ) , and four standard tray ( 4.75 inches long by 4.75 inch all-embracing with six 1 - in by 1 - inch cellular phone ) . Each tray has its own food - grade PET plastic dome , ensure customizable humidity and protection .
Unlike traditional seed trays with a exclusive large dome , this organisation prevents premature dome remotion . Different plants germinate at different pace , and with individual covers , we could move out them only when need , keep down the risk of fungous issues . The design also features drip - watering channels and domes with a refillable trickle irrigation bedchamber for docile , logical wet . Air - prune slits enhance flow of air and rout wellness , while supernumerary - extensive hole allow for gentle plug descent — all professional - grade feature for best plant growth .
The only downside is the cost , which may be steep for first - time nurseryman . However , the company offers trays with the same features individually or in small bundles at lower cost to test out or gradually build a collecting . We think the mixed big bucks is a firm investment and might be the only seed - start up organisation need for years .
Get the Vego Seed Starting Mixed Bundle Tray atVego Garden .
Our Ratings : Ease of Use5/5;Design3.6/5 ; Functionality5/5 ; Value5/5
We ’ve used the Jiffy 36 Peat Pellet Seed - Starting Greenhouse Kit multiple times in our horticulture journey , and it was actually the first outfit we ever used when we commence mature industrial plant from seed . It ’s an low-cost alternative with nearly everything needed to get started — except the seeds . Plus , it ’s widely available at handsome - boxful retailer , make it an well-off choice for tiro .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
The kit uses peat pellets as the growing medium , which are encase in a breathable , plantable engagement . Before planting , soak the flat pellets in water until they fully expand . Once quick , establish the seeds , brood them with the included dome , and order the tray on a semen - starting mat or another strong surface to advance germination . The kit even let in a small package of starter fertilizer to apply once seedling emerge .
While we do like this seedling starter kit , we have a twosome of complaint . First , the stuff are flimsy . The moldable tray and dome may last a season or two at serious , and alas , they ’re not well recyclable . Second , the dome miss ventilation vents , so user need to keep an heart on condensation and manually lift the palpebra to forbid fungal issue like muffle off .
That said , those novel to come starting or depend for a budget - well-disposed option will find that the Jiffy 36 Peat Pellet Seed - start Greenhouse Kit is a solid pick to sound off off the horticulture season .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
Get the Jiffy Seed Starting Kit atAmazon ( 2 - pack),The Home Depot , orFerry - Morse .
Our Ratings : Ease of Use5/5;Design4.6/5 ; Functionality5/5 ; Value5/5
The Gardener ’s Supply GrowEase Seed Starter Kit is an excellent choice for unexampled gardeners or anyone with modified place . We liked that it ’s compact yet leave 24 planting space , cook it fertile without taking up too much room . The ego - watering organization with the capillary matte and chopine is a standout feature film , helping to foreclose overwatering — a common mistake for beginner . The kit is also made from durable , BPA - destitute plastic , see it can be reprocess for multiple season .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
However , there are a few drawbacks . The pliant natural covering is n’t as sturdy as the base and lacks vent holes , so users will have to lift it occasionally to provide airflow . While the planting cell tray is usable , it does n’t have melodic line - pruning strips , and the modest base holes make seedling remotion tricksy . Gardener ’s Supply sellsseedling transplanting tongsto help pop out seedlings , but that ’s an surplus leverage . Despite these pocket-size topic , we still recommend it , especially for small - space gardener who want a low - care seed - begin solution .
Get the Gardener ’s Supply GrowEase seminal fluid start tray atGardener ’s Supply Company .
Best Kit
Park Seed Bio Dome Seed-Starting System
Our rating : Ease of Use5/5;Design4.6/5 ; Functionality5/5 ; Value4.6/5
The Park Seed Bio Dome Seed - Starting System is a well - designed , all - in - one outfit that take a leak starting seeds simple and efficient . We appreciate that it admit everything users need , from the sturdy base and humidity dome to the Bio Sponges , which excrete the mess of handling open soil . The two-fold release holes on the dome are a corking characteristic , allowing better restraint over humidity and air flow — something many seed - starting trays miss . We test the outfit with 80 planting cells , but there are options for smaller kits as well . All the outfit sizes provide ample distance for starting a potpourri of ejaculate , making it a solid choice for gardeners looking to develop multiple industrial plant at once .
While the Bio Dome offers splendid functionality , there are a couple of drawbacks . TheBio Spongesare one - clock time usance and need to be replaced seasonally , which is more expensive than traditional soil - based seed - starting method . to boot , while the polystyrene planting block is lightweight and easy to use , we have business concern about its long - term durability , specially with frequent reuse . The system is bulky than standard germ tray , so gardeners with limited space may require to be after accordingly . That said , the ease of purpose , mess - liberal sponges , and adjustable airing make this an excellent option for initiate and experient growers .
Photo: Vego
Get the Park Seed Bio Dome seed protrude tray atAmazonorPark Seed .
Best Biodegradable
CowPots 3-Inch Round Pot Planter
The CowPots Biodegradable Seed Starting System is an eco - friendly alternative to traditional plastic pots . Made from recycled , non - peat cow manure , these starter pots for seed are fully biodegradable , break down during a single rise season . Despite their constitutional report , they are amazingly hardy . Even after a full month of examination , satiate with soil and consistent moisture , they reserve up well without break apart . However , since they are not plastic , the batch can dry out out quicker and will demand coherent monitoring to quash dry out completely and damaging thin seedlings .
The only downside we noticed is that while CowPots are mostly inodorous , they do have a slight manure fragrance when wet . It ’s not overwhelming , but it ’s something to be aware of , specially if using them indoors . however , this is a modest trade - off for a sustainable , peat - devoid pick that eliminate formative waste while providing sound root development for seedling . For those count for an environmentally well-disposed agency to come out seed , CowPots is our top pick for the best biodegradable seed - starting system .
Get the Cow Pots seed starting system atAmazon .
Photo: Amazon
Best Large Bundle
Bootstrap Farmer Ultimate Backyard Bundle Kit
Our rating : Ease of Use5/5;Design5/5 ; Functionality5/5 ; Value4.6/5
We were introduced to Bootstrap Farmer ’s products years ago and became immediate fans of their high - quality , professional - level gardening supplies . Their Ultimate Backyard Bundle Kit is no exception — it ’s built for enduringness and designed to defy multiple grow season . Unlike flimsy seed - starting trays that check or warp after one use , these are made from heavy - duty , BPA - free plastic that hold up under regular use . This outfit is everlasting for hobby farmers or serious gardeners who need orotund - ordered series seedling production without having to replace their frame-up every season . One standout feature is the option to choose tray colors , which grant for colour - coding different plants — a elementary but effective way to stay organised .
The only downside is the sizeable upfront cost , but if for those serious about gardening , it ’s utterly deserving it . The cost , when broken down , is about $ 36 per set , which is quite reasonable for something work up to last . compare to buying gimcrack trays that need supercede every class , this is a long - term , cost - effective solution despite the initial layout . With unrivalled durability , professional - level blueprint , and a complete set for tumid - scale ontogenesis , we highly urge this kit for anyone looking for a long - live ejaculate - starting system .
Photo: Gardeners
Get the Bootstrap Farmer seed start organization atBootstrap Farmer .
Best For Soil Blocks
Bootstrap Farmer 1020 Mesh Deep Extra Strength Trays
Our Ratings : Ease of Use5/5;Design4.3/5 ; Functionality5/5 ; Value5/5
For those using thesoil blockmethod for seed starting , the Bootstrap Farmer 1020 Mesh Deep Extra Strength Tray is an fantabulous means to keep seedlings organized and properly hydrated . Since ground block miss plastic or peat containers to help defend wet , they require careful handling and bottom watering to prevent them from drying out . This mesh tray makes it soft to overwhelm and drain grime blocks with minimal disturbance , ensuring even moisture dispersion while promoting healthy beginning development .
Like all Bootstrap Farmer product , this tray is built to last . Made from indestructible and recyclable # 5 polypropylene plastic , it ’s designed for multiple season of manipulation without warping or cracking . While it ’s idealistic for soil blocks , it can also conciliate other come - starting pots , making it a versatile addition to any propagation setup . The only downside is that , due to its mesh conception , it does n’t oblige water on its own and should always be mate with a solid 10×20 - inch tray . Fortunately , it fits perfectly inside a standard seedling tray for easy employment . This tray is a durable and practical choice for seeded player - neophyte who bank on bottom watering for soil block or other container .
Photo: Amazon
More Great Options
We test several seed - starting tray and researched additional options based on enduringness , drainage , and user feedback . Alongside our top picks , we found other extremely rated tray for seeds that offer up great features , including sturdy construction , excellent airflow , and compatibility with standard 10×20 - in trays .
Best Self-Watering
Burpee 72-Cell Self-Watering Ultimate Grow System
The Burpee 72 - cellular telephone ego - Watering Ultimate Growing System is plan to simplify seed starting by providing consistent moisture to seedlings . This system include a 72 - cell seed tray , a water reservoir , and a ego - water mat that helps regulate moisture levels . The hairlike action of the matting ensures that seedlings receive just the right amount of water , preventing over- or under - lacrimation . to boot , the included clean humidity domed stadium help create an idealistic environs for germination by maintaining warmth and wet .
The 72 - cellular telephone design permit gardeners to commence a turgid number of plants in a compact quad . The self - watering feature film is especially beneficial for busy gardeners or beginners who may struggle with keeping seedlings systematically hydrated . However , while the system is convenient , some users may find that the self - watering matte requires episodic adaptation to function properly . to boot , the cells may be on the little side for big seedlings , requiring transplantation earlier . Despite these minor drawback , the Burpee 72 - Cell Self - Watering Ultimate Growing System is a well - designed answer for anyone looking to streamline their seed - start process .
Get the Burpee 72 - cell seed set off tray kit atAmazonandBurpee .
Photo: Amazon
Best For Window Sills
Burpee SuperSeed Windowsill Seed Starting Tray
The Burpee SuperSeed Windowsill Seed Starting Tray Cell is an fantabulous choice for nurseryman with limited space , such as apartment dwellers using windowsills orsmall indoor setups . With only eight redundant - turgid cells , this thickset tray is perfect for starting a few impregnable seedlings without choose up too much elbow room . Each cellular telephone is mysterious and wide , allowing for healthy stem growth , making it ideal for larger industrial plant like tomato , peppers , and squash . The unequalled pattern feature recessed watering channels that ensure even moisture distribution , trim the risk of over- or under - tearing . One of its standout feature of speech is the silicone polymer cell bottom , which make transplant gentle by gently pushing seedlings out without damaging roots . The included clean humidness dome helps maintain warmth and moisture , promoting strong sprouting even in cool indoor environments .
While it does n’t reconcile a tumid act of seedling , it ’s a great selection for those who require to develop a few strong plant life in a manageable space . Its easy - to - consumption design makes it particularly appealing to beginner nurseryman or anyone calculate for a wide-eyed , low - maintenance cum - starting resolution .
Get the Burpee Superseed Windowsill cum starting tray atAmazonandBurpee .
Photo: Bootstrap Farmer
Best Bulk Pack
Bonviee 12-Pack Seed Starter Trays
The Bonviee 12 - Pack Seed Starter Trays is an fantabulous pick for starting a large phone number of seedlings at an low-priced monetary value . This bulk camp includes 12 trays , each with a 12 - cell design , work it complete for gardeners who need to turn multiple plant at once . Each tray features an adjustable humidity noggin , allowing for precise wet control to further hard sprouting . The include base tray assist prevent leaks and keep watering mess - free , create them ideal for indoor economic consumption on windowsill , potting benches , or greenhouse frame-up .
The adjustable vents on the humidity domes take into account for air flow ascendency , preclude mold growth and meliorate seedling health . While the plastic construction is slight than premium tray , this clique is an excellent value for home nurseryman , schools , or community garden need an effective seed - starting solution . A budget - friendly bulk option with solid feature , the Bonviee Seed Starter Trays deliver keen functionality without breaking the bank .
Get the Bonviee seed commence trays onAmazon .
Photo: Bootstrap Farmer
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Chose and Tested the Best Seed Starting Trays
Years of hands - on gardening experience and extended production testing went into curating this guide on the best ejaculate starting trays . We started with a wide selection of over 25 seed tray choice from reputable brands and narrowed them down free-base on durability , usability , and seedling carrying into action . Our evaluation focus on durability and reusability , humidity bonce effectuality , and water preoccupancy and retention — essential constituent for sizable works exploitation .
Our Selection Criteria
To assure accurate , quotable results , we tested each seed tray under consistent growing conditions . We used the same gamy - quality seed starting commixture across all tray and evaluated them on the following standard :
Photo: Amazon
What to Consider When Choosing a Seed Starting Tray
Though it ’s soft to take that all plant freshman tray offer similar performance , a act of factors regard their functionality . Keep read to check about some important feature of speech to consider when choose the best seminal fluid starting supplies .
Material
A primary thoughtfulness when choosing a ejaculate starter tray is the textile . mostly verbalise , seed trays commonly strike into two categories : reclaimable or biodegradable .
Capacity
A source tray ’s capacity is dependent on the issue of cells it has . Small starter kits for seed may only have four cells , while large model can have up to 70 . Smaller tray can be arranged together in a variety of configurations to check undergrow lights , while gravid trays are better suited to tumid growing stations .
If using natural Light Within rather than grow lights , it ’s best to prefer for trays that are little enough to meet on a windowsill . Choose trays based on the electrical capacity needed .
Cell Size and Depth
Another condition when prefer planting trays is the size of each individual cell . seminal fluid tray cell have a received size of 1.5 inches long by 1.5 inches wide-cut with a deepness range from 1.5 to 2.5 inches . Some trays will on purpose vary to host tumid works or to accommodate seedling that need to grow for a longer time prior to transplanting .
Seedling trays tend to be cryptical and can accommodate more mature seedlings and plants with deep root systems . It ’s not advisable to choose a potting flora tray with cells deeper than 3 inches because they are n’t idealistic for water supply drain .
Accessories
While come starting trays are sometimes sold without any extras , some include usefulseed take up essentials .
Advantages of UsingSeed Starting Trays
While it ’s potential to germinate seed in nearly any variety of container , using a ejaculate starting tray makes the appendage simpler , tidier , and easygoing to maintain . Here are some advantage of using a semen starting tray .
FAQs
While you now make love more about opt the proficient ejaculate starting kit , you may still be await for more information . Here are answers to some of the most often asked questions about seed starter trays .
The number of seedling trays needed depends on the number of seeds you wish to plant . It ’s normal for some seeds to fail to germinate , so planting a few more than you ’ll in the end demand is a good idea .
First , decide whether a recyclable or biodegradable tray is preferable . Then , choose a tray with a size and content that unspoiled suit your penury .
Photo: Amazon
A fundament tray should be placed under a source starting tray to catch the water that drains out of the hole in the cell tray . The tray can also sit in a largerplanteras long as the air can circle freely .
To remove seedlings from a plastic tray for plant , turn the tray upside down and mildly force each cellphone to bump off the seedling . Never pull on the seedling ’s stem for bump off it . If need , habituate a butter knife to aid detach the soil from the cell tray .
In edict to help source germinate faster , some gardener opt to soak their seed in warm water for 24 hours before embed them . Also considerstarting them indoorswhile waiting for the weather outside to warm .
Photo: Amazon
The idealistic temperature for seedlings varies ground on the plant life multifariousness . loosely talk , however , most seedlings thrive at temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit .
Yes . Starting seeds is an economical alternative because buying seed is more toll - effective than buy seedlings or mature plants .
Meet the Tester
Debbie Wolfe is a seasoned writer and product tester with extensive experience in horticulture and dwelling house advance . She takes a hands - on , elaborate approach to evaluating seed - start tray , ensuring virtual , well - explore recommendations for nurseryman of all levels .
Our Best Advice for Beginner Gardeners
We ’ll avail you set up your first garden — whether that ’s a few commode on your terrace , a raised layer , or an in - ground game out back — and select the right plant life for your stain and part .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
