Seedling Mat

What is a seedling mat and why is it used?
A seedling mat is a device used in order to help the seeds in the seed trays sprout faster into seedlings. The purpose of a seedling mat is to effectively maintain the temperature of the soil, in the seed trays, at a value most favorable for the germination process. These mats are ideal when there is a drastic variation in temperature of the room in which the seed trays are housed.

What happens if seedling mat is not used?
Warmer soil temperatures are crucial for germination in many kinds of seeds. Seedling mats address this requirement of regulating the temperature of the soil. So, without a seedling mat, there may be limited germination, inconsistent germination or absolutely no germination at all, especially at lower soil temperatures. This could result in a delay in planting them out, with the delay being anywhere between 8-10 weeks. This can hamper the yield for many vegetable plants like eggplants and tomatoes. The seeds of these plants should sprout into healthy seedlings prior to the growing season so as to enable a successful yield at the end of the growing season.

How does a seedling mat work?
The seedling mats work by providing heat to the seed trays. The mats comprise of a heating unit which conducts the heat to the seed trays.

What are the different types of Seedlings Mats available in the market today?
There are mainly three different types of seedling mats. They differ from one another in the degree of temperature control of the soil. They are as follows

• Constant Heat Output Seedling Mat: This is a simple resistant heater. It is driven by electricity when connected to the mains supply by means of a cord. The heat is typically generated by a heated mat placed beneath the seed tray. The heat generated depends on the wattage. A higher wattage rating will generate more heat. When the heater is plugged ON, the heat from the mat is conducted into soil or compost in which the seeds have been sown. Here, the soil temperature cannot be controlled and heat provided to the soil is constant. The heat provided is usually in the range of 75 degree F to 85 degrees F, and this usually the temperature at which most seeds germinate.
• Thermostatically controlled Seedling Mat: This type of seedling mat enables better control over the soil temperature. The thermostat allows the system to rise to a preset temperature and the power is automatically turned OFF. When the temperature begins to drop and reaches a minimum preset value, the power is turned ON and the heat is generated. This type of mat not only serves to produce a uniform soil temperature but also reduces the heating costs.
• Temperature adjustable and Thermostat controlled seedling mat: Here the temperature at which the thermostat activates can be set by the operator. It usually has a wide range of adjustable temperature anywhere between 45 degree F to 85 degree F. This type of seedling mat is ideal if a large variety of seeds are being germinated.

So, if you are looking to get a great head start on your seeds then it would be worth investing in a good seedling mat. A good seedling mat is a must have tool for an avid gardening enthusiasts who would like to see their seeds sprout into healthy seedlings before the start of the season.