Containers for starting seeds should be clean, sturdy and fit into the space available for growing plants in the home (see Figure 1). The proper container helps get seedlings off to a good start and may save work in later stages of development.
Clean containers are extremely important for good germination and prevention of disease.
Wood flats, fiber trays, plastic trays. Plants that are easy to transplant may be seeded directly in flats or trays for later transplanting into individual pots or wider spacing in flats. Starting seeds in such containers saves space as compared to seeding directly into individual pots. However, when time is more important than space, direct seeding in pots may be preferred.
Clay and plastic pots. Both types can be cleaned and reused and provide excellent growth for transplants. They must be removed from the soil ball carefully at planting time. Seeds may also be planted directly into them.
Peat pots. These popular pots are made from peat or paper waste fibers and may be purchased individually or in strips or blocks. They are porous and provide excellent drainage and air movement. The entire pot can be planted, so there is minimum root disturbance at planting time.
Compressed peat pellets. Expandable peat pellets when dry are about the size of a silver dollar, but somewhat thicker. When placed in water they swell to form a cylindrical container filled with peat moss, ready for seeding or transplanting. They may be planted directly into the garden. Use the pellets in trays so that they are easily watered and held upright.
Copyright 2000 University of Missouri. Published by
University Extension, University of Missouri-Columbia. UExtension
