When spring finally rolls around after a long, cold Canadian winter, it can be hard to wait to get your hands in the dirt and start growing your own plants. If you’re eager to get a head start, starting your plants from seed indoors can be a great way to do so. But only the best trays that are perfect for seed starting in Canada can provide the perfect start for your plants.
Growing plants from seeds can be a rewarding and fun experience, but it can quickly become frustrating if you don’t have the right trays. Seed starting trays are the vessel that will contain your seeds as they germinate and grow until they are ready to be transplanted outdoors.
8. Grow Strong Roots: Discover The Best Seed Starting Trays For Canada
Good seed starting trays will provide adequate drainage while also retaining moisture. They should be made of a durable material so that they can endure being reused. The best seed starting trays will also have a clear plastic cover that will help to keep the seeds moist during germination. Use our guide below to make sure you choose the best seed starting trays for your specific plant requirements!
Seed Starting Trays: What They Are and What to Look For
Seed starting trays are typically made of plastic or peat moss and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. The cells in the tray hold the seeds and soil, and the bottom of each cell has holes for drainage. Some trays also have a clear plastic lid that helps maintain humidity and warmth.
When choosing seed starting trays, there are several things to keep in mind:
- Material: Plastic trays are lightweight and easy to clean, while peat moss trays are biodegradable and can be planted directly into the ground.
- Size: The size of the tray you need will depend on the number of seeds you are starting. Trays come in a variety of sizes, from small trays that hold just a few seeds to large trays that can hold dozens of seeds.
- Shape: Trays come in a variety of shapes, including square, rectangular, and round. Choose a shape that will fit well in your growing space.
- Drainage: The bottom of each cell in the tray should have holes for drainage. This is important to prevent the seeds from sitting in water, which can lead to rot.
- Lid: Some trays have a clear plastic lid that helps maintain humidity and warmth. This can be helpful for seeds that require a warm, humid environment to germinate.
The History and Myth of Seed Starting Trays
Seed starting trays have been used for centuries to help gardeners start their seeds indoors. The first seed starting trays were made of wood or clay, but plastic trays became popular in the early 20th century. Today, seed starting trays are an essential tool for any gardener, and they are available in a wide variety of materials, sizes, and shapes.
There are many myths about seed starting trays. Some people believe that the material of the tray affects the growth of the seedlings. Others believe that the size of the tray has an impact on the number of seeds that can be started. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. The best seed starting tray for you is the one that meets your specific needs and preferences.
The Hidden Secret of Seed Starting Trays
One of the best-kept secrets about seed starting trays is that they can be reused year after year. This can save you money in the long run, and it is also good for the environment.
To reuse a seed starting tray, simply clean it thoroughly with soap and water after use. Allow it to dry completely before storing it in a cool, dry place. When you are ready to use the tray again, fill it with new soil and seeds.
With proper care, seed starting trays can last for many years. So, don’t throw them away after one use! Reuse them to save money and help the environment.
Recommended Seed Starting Trays for Canada
If you’re looking for the best seed starting trays for Canada, we recommend the following:
- Park Seed Pro72 Seed Starting Trays: These trays are made of durable plastic and have a clear plastic lid that helps maintain humidity and warmth. They are also available in a variety of sizes, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs.
- Jiffy Peat Pellets: These are a great option if you want to start your seeds in a biodegradable container. The pellets are made of compressed peat moss, which is a natural soil amendment that helps to retain moisture and improve drainage.
- Rapid Rooters: These are another great option for biodegradable seed starting. Rapid Rooters are made of a unique blend of materials that helps to promote root growth and prevent damping-off.
8. Grow Strong Roots: Discover The Best Seed Starting Trays For Canada and Related Keywords
In addition to the seed starting trays listed above, there are a few other things you can do to help your seedlings get a strong start:
- Use a high-quality seed starting mix. This will provide your seedlings with the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy.
- Water your seedlings regularly. Avoid overwatering, but don’t let the soil dry out completely.
- Provide your seedlings with plenty of light. If you don’t have access to natural light, you can use a grow light.
- Harden off your seedlings before transplanting them outdoors. This will help them get used to the outdoor environment and reduce the risk of transplant shock.
Why do I need seed starting trays?
Seed starting trays help to provide the ideal environment for your seeds to germinate and grow. They provide drainage, support, and humidity, which are all essential for seed germination and early seedling growth. They also make it easy to manage your seedlings and keep them organized, which can be a challenge if you are starting a lot of seeds at once.
Tips for Using Seed Starting Trays
Here are a few tips for using seed starting trays:
- Fill the trays with a high-quality seed starting mix.
- Moisten the seed starting mix before planting your seeds.
- Plant your seeds according to the instructions on the seed packet.
- Water the seeds gently and avoid overwatering.
- Cover the trays with a clear plastic lid or humidity dome to help maintain moisture.
- Place the trays in a warm, sunny location.
- Keep the seed starting mix moist and check the trays regularly for germination.
- When the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, you can transplant them into individual pots or containers.
Fun Facts About Seed Starting Trays
Here are a few fun facts about seed starting trays:
- The first seed starting trays were made of wood or clay.
- Plastic seed starting trays became popular in the early 20th century.
- Seed starting trays are available in a wide variety of materials, sizes, and shapes.
- Seed starting trays can be reused year after year.
- Seed starting trays can help to improve seed germination rates and seedling growth.
How to Choose the Best Seed Starting Trays for Canada
When choosing seed starting trays for Canada, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Climate: Canada has a cold climate, so it is important to choose seed starting trays that are durable and can withstand cold temperatures.
- Plant size: The size of the seed starting trays you need will depend on the size of the plants you are growing. Larger plants will need larger trays.
- Budget: Seed starting trays come in a range of prices, so it is important to choose trays that fit your budget.
What If I Don’t Have Seed Starting Trays?
If you don’t have seed starting trays, you can still start seeds indoors. Here are a few methods:
- Toilet paper rolls: Toilet paper rolls are a great way to start small seeds. Simply fill the rolls with seed starting mix and plant your seeds.
- Egg cartons: Egg cartons are another great option for starting seeds. Cut the cartons into individual cells and fill them with seed starting mix.
- Plastic cups: Plastic cups are a good option for starting larger seeds. Poke holes in the bottom of the cups for drainage and fill them with seed starting mix.
