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Heated Electric Propagators

Our range of heated electric propagators offers a practical and efficient solution for plant propagation, with faster germination and rooting with a much higher success rate. 

These mini electric propagators work by ensuring the root zone is kept warm, allowing the early propagation of plants. Even a small electric propagator will produce a large number of plants, so a number of the mini propagators have small seed trays to allow a wide range of plants to be propagated at the same time.

What is a heated propagator?

A heated propagator is a device that provides a warm and controlled environment for seeds and cuttings to germinate and grow. Just like a miniature greenhouse. Propagators work by keeping the root zone warm, which is crucial for the early propagation of plants. 

Heated propagators are especially useful for starting seeds or propagating cuttings during colder months when outdoor conditions may not be favourable for successful germination. By providing a warm and controlled environment, they promote faster and more consistent germination and root growth, leading to healthier and stronger plants. 

These devices are commonly used by gardeners, horticulturists, and plant enthusiasts to give their seeds and cuttings the best possible start before transplanting them into larger containers or outdoor garden beds.

Why you need a heated propagator

If your home or greenhouse lacks adequate heat, heated propagators provide a solution by exclusively warming the seed trays, saving you from the burden of heating the entire space.

Additionally, if your heated propagator has a thermostat, like our two-in-one electric propagator, you don’t need to worry about sudden drops in room temperature. Heated propagators also mean you can extend the sowing season.

They can assist in promoting successful rooting of cuttings too, and the heated mats can be used for overwintering delicate plants.

Features of our electric propagators

  • They come with mini vented seed trays, allowing you to grow a wide range of plants at the same time, reducing the risk of cross contamination between varieties.
  • Although these models do not have a thermostat, the compost is heated to around 8°C, a temperature under which the most most popular seeds will germinate.  
  • The Two-in-One electric propagator takes things up a notch, with a variable thermostatic control allowing you to select the required temperature for your seeds.
  • A pilot light indicates that the thermostat is maintaining an even temperature, protecting your seeds. It comes complete with two seed trays and domes
  • Our Super 7 and Trio Top electric windowsill propagators feature a non-thermostatically controlled 13-watt heated base, providing an ideal nursery for your seeds right on your windowsill.

How to use a heated electric propagator

Here’s a handy step-by-step guide to using your new electric heated propagator.

1. Check your propagator

Before reusing your electric propagator, make sure it’s clean and free from any old compost or plant debris. This will help prevent the spread of diseases. Plug it in to make sure it’s working correctly.

2. Fill trays with compost

Fill the seed trays with good quality, seed-sowing compost. It’s usually finer and free from large chunks, making it easier for the seedlings to grow.

3. Plant your seeds

Follow the instructions on your seed packet for planting depth and spacing. After sowing the seeds, cover them with a fine layer of compost or vermiculite, except for seeds which require light, which should be placed on the surface.

4. Water

After planting, water your seeds. You can use a fine mist sprayer to prevent disturbing the seeds. The compost should be moist, but not waterlogged.

5. Place in propagator

Put the seed trays in the electric propagator. Make sure not to overcrowd the trays as this can inhibit growth and promote disease.

6. Set the temperature

If your propagator has a thermostat, like our Two-in-One propagator, set the temperature according to the requirements of the seeds you’re germinating. Again, this information is usually on the seed packet. 

7. Cover and wait:

Close the lid of the propagator. Check daily to ensure the compost is still moist and to monitor the seedling progress. Vent the propagator by opening the vents or slightly opening the lid to let some fresh air in and reduce humidity, helping to prevent fungal diseases. This becomes especially important once the seeds have germinated.

8. Transplanting

Once the seedlings are big enough to handle and have developed their first true leaves (not the first pair, which are the seed leaves or cotyledons), they can be transplanted to larger pots or trays to grow on before eventually moving them outside.

Always remember to follow the specific instructions provided by your seed packet. Some seeds need to be in the dark beneath the compost, while others need light to germinate and should be left on the surface. 

Maintenance and care

Cleaning

Before and after each use, thoroughly clean your electric propagator. Remove any plant debris and compost from the trays. Wash it with warm soapy water, rinse, and allow it to dry completely before using it again or storing it. This will help prevent the spread of diseases.

Check wiring and plugs

Always check the condition of the wiring and plugs. Look for any signs of fraying, damage or loose connections. If you find any issues, do not use the propagator until it’s repaired by a qualified professional.

Inspect the heating element

Inspect the heating element to ensure it’s working correctly. If it’s not heating up or seems to be overheating, there could be an issue that needs professional attention.

Storage

When you’re not using your electric propagator, store it in a dry and cool place. Keep it covered to prevent dust accumulation.

Sterilise

For added protection against disease, you can sterilise your propagator before use. Use a diluted bleach solution (one part bleach to nine parts water) or a specific propagator disinfectant. Rinse thoroughly afterwards to ensure no residue is left behind.

By following these simple steps, you can extend the life of your electric propagator and ensure it provides the best growing conditions for your seeds and seedlings.

FAQs

We've compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you get the most out of your heated electric propagator - from understanding how they work to knowing when to take your seedlings out.

 

  • Heated propagators work by providing a warm and controlled environment for seeds and cuttings to germinate and grow. They have a heated base that warms the root zone of the plants, which is crucial for early propagation.

  • The length of time you keep seedlings in a heated propagator can vary depending on the type of plant. Generally, seedlings can be removed once they have developed their first true leaves. Always refer to the specific growing instructions for each plant.

  • Absolutely. Heated propagators can significantly increase your success rate by providing the ideal conditions for germination. They also allow you to start your seeds earlier in the year, extending the growing season.

  • The electricity usage of a heated propagator can vary depending on the model. For example, our Super 7 and Trio Top models use a 13-watt heated base, while our thermostatically-controlled Two-in-One propagator uses 40 watts.

  • You can grow a wide variety of plants in a heated propagator, from vegetables and herbs to flowers and shrubs. They’re also great for plants which are traditionally difficult to propagate. 

    Heated propagators are particularly useful for seeds that need higher temperatures or an early start, including tomatoes, peppers, aubergines, melons, basil and orchids.

  • Seedlings can be taken out of a heated propagator once they have developed their first true leaves (not the first pair, which are the seed leaves or cotyledons). At this stage, they’re usually strong enough to withstand less controlled environments.

  • Yes, heated propagators are typically left on all the time to maintain a consistent temperature. 

  • Yes, our heated propagators can be used in a greenhouse. In fact, using them in a greenhouse can provide an extra layer of protection for your plants.

  • The size of the propagator you choose will depend on the number of plants you want to propagate and the space you have available. We offer a range of sizes to suit different needs.

  • Yes, our electric propagators can be used for both seeds and cuttings. They provide the ideal conditions for both to thrive.

  • Our electric propagators are perfect for indoor gardening. They’re compact enough to fit on a windowsill and provide the controlled environment needed for successful indoor propagation.

  • Watering frequency will depend on the type of plant and the conditions in the propagator. As a general rule, the compost should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Watering from the bottom is often the best method as it encourages the roots to grow downwards and helps prevent the growth of mould.

  • Our electric propagators do not come with built-in lights. However, they are designed to be transparent to allow natural light to reach your plants. If you’re using the propagator in a location with low light levels, you may want to consider using a grow light.

  • With proper care and maintenance (see above), your electric propagator can last for many years. Always unplug the propagator before cleaning and avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the propagator or leave residues that could harm your plants.

How Can We Help

Whether you’re looking to grow a variety of plants or just want to try your hand at propagation, we hope you found this information useful.

However, if you have any questions about our heated electric propagators, or need some further gardening advice, please contact us by calling 01788 822 301 or emailing [email protected].

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