The Complete Guide to Using Seedling Trays

Seedling trays are an indispensable and important tool in modern horticulture and agricultural production. They can not only effectively improve the seed germination rate, but also promote the healthy growth of seedlings. However, for many beginners, how to use seedling trays correctly may be a challenge. This article will provide you with a complete guide to using seedling trays, from choosing seedling trays, preparing seeds, planting techniques to later management, helping you easily master the usage skills of seedling trays.

1. Choosing the Right Seedling Tray

When choosing a seedling tray, the following aspects need to be considered:

Material: Common materials for seedling trays include plastic, foam, paper, and biodegradable materials. Plastic seedling trays are durable and suitable for multiple uses; foam seedling trays are lightweight but not durable; paper seedling trays are environmentally friendly but prone to deformation; biodegradable seedling trays combine the advantages of environmental protection and practicality.

Specification: Choose the appropriate pore diameter and overall size according to the size and quantity of the seeds. Small-pore diameter seedling trays are suitable for small seeds, and large-pore diameter seedling trays are suitable for large seeds.

Function: Different functional seedling trays such as self-absorbing seedling trays, partitioned seedling trays, and covered seedling trays can meet different planting needs.

2. Preparing Seeds and Matrix

Before using the seedling tray, the preparations for seeds and matrix need to be done:

Seed treatment: Select high-quality seeds and conduct germination-promoting treatments such as soaking and refrigeration to improve the germination rate.

Matrix selection: Seedling matrix generally selects materials with loose, breathable, and good water retention properties, such as peat, coconut coir, and perlite. It can be mixed and configured according to the needs of different crops.

3. Sowing Skills

The correct sowing method is the key to ensuring the smooth germination of seeds:

Filling the matrix: Evenly fill the prepared matrix into the seedling tray and slightly compact it, but not too tightly to avoid affecting the breathability.

Sowing: Evenly sprinkle the seeds on the surface of the matrix or sow by holes according to the size of the seeds. Small seeds can be directly sown, and for large seeds, it is recommended to sow by holes and cover an appropriate amount of matrix.

Watering: Spray a fine mist of water gently after sowing to make the matrix moist but not too wet to avoid seed rot.

4. Management during the Germination Period

During the seed germination period, the following management measures need to be noted:

Moisture retention: Keep the matrix moist but not too wet, and a sprayer can be used for fine mist spraying.

Temperature: Keep the appropriate temperature, generally between 20-25°C, and the appropriate temperature for different crops will vary.

Light: Some seeds require light during the germination period, while some seeds do not, and manage according to the needs of the seeds.

5. Management during the Seedling Stage

When the seeds germinate and enter the management of the seedling stage:

Light: Ensure that the seedlings have sufficient light every day, generally requiring 12-16 hours of light time. Plant growth lights can be used for supplemental lighting.

Watering: Keep the matrix moist but not too wet to avoid root rot caused by water accumulation.

Fertilization: After the seedlings grow two true leaves, appropriate fertilization can be started, and diluted liquid fertilizers should be selected to avoid burning the seedlings due to excessive fertilizer concentration.

6. Transplanting Preparation

When the seedlings grow to a certain stage, transplanting is required:

Transplanting time: Generally, transplanting is carried out when the seedlings grow 3-4 true leaves.

Preparations before transplanting: Gradually reduce watering a few days before transplanting to enhance the adaptability of the seedlings. Choose a cloudy day or evening on the day of transplanting to reduce the damage to the seedlings caused by direct sunlight.

7. Summary

Correctly using seedling trays can not only improve the seed germination rate but also promote the healthy growth of seedlings. By choosing the right seedling tray, preparing seeds and matrix, mastering sowing techniques and management during the germination period, conducting management during the seedling stage and transplanting preparations, you can easily master the usage method of seedling trays and enjoy the fun and harvest brought by planting. If you have any questions or experience to share, welcome to leave a message and communicate in the comment area.

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