Heat Mat 250mm x 530mm - 18 watts

Heat Mat 250mm x 530mm - 18 watts

Seedling heat mat pad for better plant growth and flower seed germination

Warms root area 10 to 20 degrees over ambient temperature

Increases the success of seedlings and cuttings

Durable construction, waterproof and easy to clean

Can be placed under any size of seedling tray

Temperature can be controlled via a heat mat thermostat for optimum control if required

Providing the optimum environment can decrease germination time, improve uniformity and increase the number of seeds or cuttings that germinate. 

Critical factors for germination include moisture, oxygen, temperature and light.

Seeds from the packet are at 4 – 12% moisture content. To germinate this needs to be increased to 25 to 50%.  Select a growing media like rockwool cubes that has good water holding capacity, adequate drainage and allows good contact with the seed is important.  

Temperature is also important, testing by several universities has found that each species has a range of temperature that is best for germination. For some such as Marigolds, almost complete germination will take place at any temperature between 10°C and 30°C.  Others have a much narrower range, such as Freesia that germinates only between 12°C and 18°C

Light requirements vary with the species, with cuttings light is always required. With seeds once germinated adequate light is required to prevent stretching.

Fluorescent lamps are the common choice for providing the light needed for cuttings and seedlings.