This is part of a series I plan on doing about garden equipment and tools. Through the years I've learned that investing in good tools and equipment pays off. So let's start with seed trays.
f you are a serious gardener and start most of your own transplants, then it worthwhile to invest in good seed starting trays. While you can start seeds in anything that drains, I have found that on a large scale, good seed trays are worth the investment and produce healthier seedlings.
Seedling trays are my favorite. They were developed for large scale agricultural use yet I have only been able to find them from one source which is linked below.
These trays are made of molded polystyrene and are quite lightweight, which is helpful when lugging the trays around the garden.
They come in 4 sizes: 1" 200 cells, 1 1/2" 128 cells, 2" 72 cells, and 3" 32 cells. I like the 2" or 3" trays because I don't want to have to repot before transplanting.
Automatic Root Pruning
The cells are pyramidal in shape and taper down to a 1⁄4-inch hole at the bottom. Because of this, the seedling roots are guided downward. When the taproot encounters the air outside the bottom hole, it is automatically root-pruned, prompting the development of feeder roots that grow downward. This makes for seedlings with a healthy root system. With a square-bottom container, the shape forces the roots to circle around themselves which is a setback to the transplants. (Fine Gardening)
Easy Removal From the Trays
Seedlings are easy to remove from these trays. I use a butter knife or sturdy plant label. Always water the day before you plan on transplanting so your plants are turgid.
Roots Already Directed Downward
When transplanting seedlings you want the roots to grow downward. If they root stay in the top couples inches they dry out and never develop a strong healthy root system. Transplants from my Speedling trays always seem to establish healthy deep root systems.
Easy Clean Up
They trays are very durable. At the end of the season, I wash the trays with soapy water and use a toothbrush to remove stubborn dirt. I let them dry in the sun and they are ready for the next season.
As I said they are a great investment if you do a lot of seed starting.
Sources for Speedling Trays
Peaceful Valley Farm Supply
PO Box 2209
Grass Valley, CA 95945
888/784-1722
www.groworganic.com
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