propagators???

Hi all!

I have had my plot for a couple of years now. I have a cold frame and have for the last few years nurtured my little seedlings on my bedroom window sill in pots with food bags over them. This is ok but gets very fiddly and messy. I can't help but think there must be an easier way to give my little seeds the best start in life!

I have seen the 'Super 7 propagator' (Harrod Horticulture) and was wondering if anyone has used this? There is a heated and an unheated version. Which one is best? My flat is generally quite warm so Im not sure whether I need the heated one.

I would be very grateful if those with a bit more experience could give me some advice on this before I part with my money as I know there are so many gadgets that aren't really essential!

Thanks

Hi

I don't have the same one, but a windowsil prop with 7 small trays.

Advantages, small trays for several types of seeds, useful in cold situations (unheated greenhouse/conservatory)

Dissadvantage, get's not much warmer than your average room, when seeds emerge I like to move them off heat.

I grow indoors to start my seeds & gave up using my heated propagator, I'm now a pot & placcy bag type. I use the airing cupboard for a few days & move to light/cooler conditions as soon as the 1st seeds show.

I do put my pot's onto trays on the window ledge, keeps them tidy & avoids water spills.

As mumofstig say's, people have different views.

At leat with the heated type, you can plug it in when you need too/want too or just use it unheated.

Hi all!

I have had my plot for a couple of years now. I have a cold frame and have for the last few years nurtured my little seedlings on my bedroom window sill in pots with food bags over them. This is ok but gets very fiddly and messy. I can't help but think there must be an easier way to give my little seeds the best start in life!

I have seen the 'Super 7 propagator' (Harrod Horticulture) and was wondering if anyone has used this? There is a heated and an unheated version. Which one is best? My flat is generally quite warm so Im not sure whether I need the heated one.

I would be very grateful if those with a bit more experience could give me some advice on this before I part with my money as I know there are so many gadgets that aren't really essential!

Thanks

I always use my cheapy Wilko Stanley ones and have them in my living room window sill (lots of light (SE facing) - also coal fire heating which does my peppers just brilliantly. Rest goes in my greenhouse once established/popped through. I don't use heated propagators and haven't struggled yet with germination. (FINGERS CROSSED NOW)

Hmm thanks for the opinions, can't decide what to do!

Have looked at the reviews and a few people have found them a bit flimsy, have you had that problem Carrotcake?

It mentions a 'capillary mat'. Does anyone know if you can buy this to put in seed trays instead of me buying the whole thing or is this a gimmick?

Im thinking I like it for how tidy it looks but the trays do look very small.....ahh decisions!!!

Thanks for all the help, will mull over my decision for a few days! Getting very excited to start sowing again, trying some new things this year:

babycorn, pak choi and florence fennel.....any tips??

I have a “Garland Super 7" - definitely not flimsey, and I too have bought additional trays (I bought extra clear plastic covers, but with hindsight that's not necessary as once they are off the heat they don't need a cover.

Some pictures and details on my blog (you'll find it using the "Blog Index")