Advanced Understanding of Crop Propagation Tools

Propagation tools are an important part of the process when it comes to a large grow operation. From seed trays to rooting hormones, these propagation tools support the crucial early stages of plant growth. In this article, we’ll highlight the different propagation tray options, and what they contribute to the full process. 

There are many goals when propagating plants for production agriculture:

• Efficiency

• Successful rooting

• Rapid growth

• Maintaining moisture and water holding capacity in the root zone

• Maintaining the correct oxygen levels in the root zone

• Cost to produce rooted plants

• Minimizing labor demand

• Maximizing use of space

• Maximizing workflow

Greenhouse plastics like trays, inserts, and domes are a major component of the process.  These simple tools are designed to maximize propagation efficiency, costs, and ultimately success in rooting saplings, seeds, and clones.

FLATS, TRAYS, & 10 x 20’S

The underlying tray is known as a flat, 10 x 20, or simply a tray.  These types of trays are typically made with and without holes - though the version without holes is far more common as it keeps water and fertilizers in the tray.  The version with holes is preferred for situations where drainage is needed.  We will cover this more later when discussing water holding capacity in the root zone.

The main function of the 10-Inch x 20-Inch flat is holding and transport.  It conveniently holds the plugs in a confined space so that water and fertilizer can be added as desired.  Once the plants have sufficiently rooted, they require transport to their planting destination or often for sale.  These inexpensive and durable trays are the most cost-effective way to get that accomplished.

It is also important to note that not all 10 x 20 trays are exactly those dimensions.  It is common to find 10.75 x 21, 11 x 21, and other similar measurements.  Some companies are measuring Inside Diameter, and some are measuring Outside Diameter so be sure to inquire before making a purchase. 

Arable Acres offers several quality levels of their classic 10-Inch x 20-Inch Flat – Economy, Standard, and Heavy Duty.  Here are the characteristics of each in ascending order:

If the Flat is simply for transport during sales, we suggest the Economy or Standard versions.  Economy is enough to get you from point A to point B without breaking, tearing, or cracking.  The Standard version is decently thicker and offers increased stability for short duration use, maybe a couple of cycles.  The Heavy-Duty Flat Tray is designed for constant usage over a long period of time.  It can twist and bend without cracking and holds up better under direct sunlight and horticultural lighting.  Since the price difference is minimal, we only suggest deviating from the Heavy-Duty Tray when volume is over 10 pallets.

All versions of Flat Trays will have bottom grooves that allow water to drain from the plugs and accumulate underneath the substrate.  These grooves are designed to hold sufficient water so that run-off can be maximized and still provide stability and support to the small plugs sitting inside.

Another tray option is the Mesh Bottom Tray.  This tray has large webbing that holds plugs and plug mats but has larger holes designed to rapidly drain water.  These trays are also used as inserts since they fit inside Flats and allow employees to quickly lift the insert and check water level and root development.  Additionally, this elevates the plugs, so they are not sitting directly in water, promoting better drainage.

CELL INSERTS

Where Flats, Trays, and 10 x 20’s are designed to provide a basic tray for propagation and the cultivation of seeds, clones, and young saplings, cell inserts are for organization, spacing, and efficiency.

Cell Inserts come in a variety of cell counts, plug hole shapes, and depths.  The most common is most likely the 50-Cell Square Cell Tray which has 5 plug holes across and 10 lengthwise.  Other common sizes are 72-Cell and 96-Cell.  Common shapes are square, round, and star.  Depth is standard but deep trays are offered for crops that require longer roots and tap root accommodations.

Finding the correct tray is relatively simple.  Firstly, decide your growing medium of choice, generally rockwool, peat moss, coco coir, or soil.  Next, determine plug size preference.  Either check what is common for your crop type or reach out to MORR and we can connect you with an agronomist to go over the options.  Lastly, ensure your propagation process fits with the cell inserts you are considering.  For example, some seeding machinery requires specific cell counts or some peat moss plugs come in specific shapes, such as 1.25-Inch square plugs.

Cell Inserts will keep plugs standing straight, with equal distance from one another, and allow for easy handling during transport and sale.  Cell Inserts also strengthen trays and reduce instances of crops being damaged.

DOMES

Clone Domes are transparent plastic covers for flat trays.  They fit snugly on top of trays and trays containing cell inserts and are designed to contain moisture, stabilize humidity, and hold onto heat.  Domes can speed up rooting time and reduce the need for irrigation and other labor-intensive tasks.

Young, rooting crops desire environmental conditions favorable for just that, rooting and vegetative growth.  Higher humidity and moisture levels stimulate these needs and promote successful rooting and growth.  Domes are designed for propagation on racks where plants will be under lighting and near one another.  By covering the tray filled with these clones or germinating seeds, moisture and humidity are trapped where desired and used by the plant.  

Domes can also be used to protect young plants during transportation.  Simply taping the flat to the dome protects leaves, stalks, and roots and prevents tipping or spilling of trays.

Propagation domes are generally 7-Inches in height and come with vents that can be opened to bleed off humidity and increase transpiration.  The transparent walls and ceiling of the domes are great for light penetration and easy viewing of plants.  There is a convenient handle on top for easy lifting of the dome and the base has a small horizontal lip around the outside edge for greater connectivity with the lip of the flat tray.

ARABLE ACRES PROPAGATION TRAYS

As a distributor of leading brands and  high-quality products, we vet every product in our catalog.  One of our best-selling products is Arable Acres’ propagation trays, inserts and domes.  Their propagation tools are particularly popular because of their quality, low price points and longevity.  If you’re in the market for new propagation trays, or want to try one out and compare to what you currently have, it might be worth your time! Here’s more info:

Arable Acres Propagation Tray Features:

• High-Quality Construction: Made from durable and long-lasting materials, these propagation trays, inserts, and domes are designed to withstand frequent use and provide excellent performance.

• Optimal Plant Growth: With carefully designed inserts and domes, these propagation products create the ideal environment for seeds and cuttings to thrive. The trays provide ample space for root development, proper drainage, and ensure healthy and vigorous plants.

• Easy-to-Use: The trays come with convenient inserts that fit perfectly, allowing for easy planting and removal. The domes provide excellent humidity control, promoting successful germination and root growth.

• Versatile Design: These propagation trays, inserts, and domes are suitable for a wide range of plants, including vegetables, herbs, flowers, and more. Whether you are starting seeds or propagating cuttings, these products will meet your needs.

• Stackable and Space-Saving: The trays are designed to be stackable, maximizing your growing space. You can easily organize and store multiple trays without taking up excessive room.

• Reusable and Environmentally Friendly: Made from recyclable materials, these propagation trays, inserts, and domes are an eco-friendly choice. They can be used season after season, reducing waste and saving you money.

Specifications:

• Tray Dimensions: 20-Inch x 10-Inch

• Insert Cells: 50-Cell, 72-Cell, 96-Cell, Custom Cell sizes and configurations upon request

• Dome Dimensions: 20-Inch x 10-Inch x 7-Inch Height

• Material: Plastic

Upgrade your propagation process and experience. Contact us when you’re ready to order your new trays.