Structures + Safety
Grow Your Own
Even if you don't have your very own greenhouse, you can still enjoy the experience - and the cost savings - of growing your own bedding plants or exotics from seed. All you need is a sunny shelf or window sill, and a seed propagator.
Most professional growers use propagation equipment of some type. You can choose either unheated units, or for more fussy seeds or optimum germination conditions, you can buy heated versions or heating mats that sit beneath seed trays. These products give localised heat to the base of the plants, creating a warm, moist atmosphere for the seeds and young cuttings to root satisfactorily.
We've reviewed six of the best seed propagators for you here.
The large AP50HT Trio Propagator is the Rolls Royce of propagators, measuring 465mm across, 785mm long, with a height of 250mm (18 x 31 x 10in). It provides 50 Watts of heat via a variable thermostatically controlled heat output spread evenly over the base. The lid is a one-piece, vacuum-formed, clear, shatter- resistant cover fitted with twin sliding ventilators. The unit will take standard 225mm x 365mm (9 x 14in) seed tray or two half trays and the height of the unit can be increased with optional extension panels.
Available from: Autogrow. Tel: (01692) 502800. Autogrow Ltd, Lyngate Industrial Estate, North Walsham, Norfolk NR28 0AW.
This mat measures 60 x 120cm (24 x 47in) and is perfect for propagation or supplying localised heat beneath unheated seed trays. Supplied with its own thermostat, it offers maximum flexibility for gardeners and in the crowded greenhouse: when not in use it can be simply rolled and stored away. For maximum efficiency the heat mats should be placed on polystyrene and then covered with aluminium foil.
Available from: Harrod Horticultural. Tel: (01502) 505300. Harrod Horticultural, Pinbush Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 7NL.
With its extra height, this thermostatically controlled propagator is ideal for providing winter protection or an extra boost for established exotic plants. The top is made from an aluminium frame with safety glazing and the electronics are approved for use in damp greenhouse conditions.
Available from: First Tunnels. Tel: (01282) 601253. Dixon Street, Barrowford, Lancashire BB9 8PL
We've reviewed six of the best seed propagators for you here.
Trio propagator AP50HT, £62.17
Great for: Fine control of seed growthThe large AP50HT Trio Propagator is the Rolls Royce of propagators, measuring 465mm across, 785mm long, with a height of 250mm (18 x 31 x 10in). It provides 50 Watts of heat via a variable thermostatically controlled heat output spread evenly over the base. The lid is a one-piece, vacuum-formed, clear, shatter- resistant cover fitted with twin sliding ventilators. The unit will take standard 225mm x 365mm (9 x 14in) seed tray or two half trays and the height of the unit can be increased with optional extension panels.
Available from: Autogrow. Tel: (01692) 502800. Autogrow Ltd, Lyngate Industrial Estate, North Walsham, Norfolk NR28 0AW.
Electric Heat Mat GPR-004, £85
Great for: Bringing warmth to seed traysThis mat measures 60 x 120cm (24 x 47in) and is perfect for propagation or supplying localised heat beneath unheated seed trays. Supplied with its own thermostat, it offers maximum flexibility for gardeners and in the crowded greenhouse: when not in use it can be simply rolled and stored away. For maximum efficiency the heat mats should be placed on polystyrene and then covered with aluminium foil.
Available from: Harrod Horticultural. Tel: (01502) 505300. Harrod Horticultural, Pinbush Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 7NL.
High Top Propagator HE0023, £99.99
Great for: Keeping established seedlings or small plants warmWith its extra height, this thermostatically controlled propagator is ideal for providing winter protection or an extra boost for established exotic plants. The top is made from an aluminium frame with safety glazing and the electronics are approved for use in damp greenhouse conditions.
Available from: First Tunnels. Tel: (01282) 601253. Dixon Street, Barrowford, Lancashire BB9 8PL
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