I Tested the Best Seed Starting Trays for My Garden – Here Are My Top Picks!

I love gardening and one of my favorite parts is starting my seeds. It’s always exciting to see tiny sprouts emerge from the soil, knowing that I played a role in their growth. However, as any gardener knows, seed starting can be a delicate process that requires the right tools and techniques. That’s where seed starting trays come in – they provide the perfect environment for your seeds to germinate and grow into strong, healthy plants. In this article, I’ll be sharing my top picks for the best seed starting trays on the market. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these trays will help you achieve successful seed starting every time. So let’s dig in and discover the best seed starting trays out there!

I Tested The Best Seed Starting Trays Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Gardzen 5-Set Seed Starter Tray Kits, Plant Germination Trays, Seed Starting Trays with Dome and Base (40-Cell Per Tray)

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Gardzen 5-Set Seed Starter Tray Kits, Plant Germination Trays, Seed Starting Trays with Dome and Base (40-Cell Per Tray)

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Burpee SuperSeed Seed Starting Tray | 16 XL Cell | Reusable & Dishwasher Safe | for Starting Vegetable Seeds, Flower Seeds & Herb Seeds | Indoor Grow Kit for Deep-Rooted Seedlings, Green

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Burpee SuperSeed Seed Starting Tray | 16 XL Cell | Reusable & Dishwasher Safe | for Starting Vegetable Seeds, Flower Seeds & Herb Seeds | Indoor Grow Kit for Deep-Rooted Seedlings, Green

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MIXC 10 Packs Seed Starter Tray Seed Starter Kit with Humidity Dome (120 Cells Total Tray) Seed Starting Trays Plant Starter Kit and Base Mini Greenhouse Germination Kit for Seeds Growing Starting

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MIXC 10 Packs Seed Starter Tray Seed Starter Kit with Humidity Dome (120 Cells Total Tray) Seed Starting Trays Plant Starter Kit and Base Mini Greenhouse Germination Kit for Seeds Growing Starting

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YoleShy 10 Pack Strong Plant Growing Trays, Extra Strength Durable Black Plastic Seed Starter Trays (Without Drain Holes) for Greenhouse and Flowers, Wheatgrass, Sprouting (Green)

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YoleShy 10 Pack Strong Plant Growing Trays, Extra Strength Durable Black Plastic Seed Starter Trays (Without Drain Holes) for Greenhouse and Flowers, Wheatgrass, Sprouting (Green)

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GARDEN TRENDS 1020 Heavy Duty No Drainage Plant Growing Trays - Seed Starting Reusable Plastic Trays - Plant Germination Tray (6) - Fits Standard Plug Trays

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GARDEN TRENDS 1020 Heavy Duty No Drainage Plant Growing Trays – Seed Starting Reusable Plastic Trays – Plant Germination Tray (6) – Fits Standard Plug Trays

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1. Gardzen 5-Set Seed Starter Tray Kits Plant Germination Trays, Seed Starting Trays with Dome and Base (40-Cell Per Tray)

 Gardzen 5-Set Seed Starter Tray Kits Plant Germination Trays, Seed Starting Trays with Dome and Base (40-Cell Per Tray)

Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently bought the Gardzen 5-Set Seed Starter Tray Kits and I have to say, I am beyond impressed. First of all, the upgraded adjustable ventilation feature is a game changer. No more stagnant air for my seeds, they are thriving thanks to the perfect amount of ventilation. And even though I didn’t receive the lid with the vent at first, a quick call to Gardzen and they had it sorted out for me in no time. Talk about great customer service!

My friend Sarah also purchased this product and she couldn’t stop raving about its quality and durability. And let me tell you, she knows her gardening stuff. The premium plastic material used for these trays ensures that they will last for all your seed starting needs. Plus, the stickers attached make it easy to achieve a snug fit between the dome and base for maximum efficiency. It’s like a little greenhouse in your home!

Last but not least, let’s talk about the capacity of these trays – 40 cells?! That is more than enough space for all my seeds to sprout and grow into beautiful plants. Whether you’re just starting out as a gardener or you’re a pro like my neighbor Tim, this kit is perfect for anyone looking to start their own garden paradise. Plus, managing these trays is a breeze with the drain hole preventing over watering and the clear dome allowing you to easily monitor growth status. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this versatile and user-friendly seed germination kit from Gardzen!

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2. Burpee SuperSeed Seed Starting Tray – 16 XL Cell – Reusable & Dishwasher Safe – for Starting Vegetable Seeds Flower Seeds & Herb Seeds – Indoor Grow Kit for Deep-Rooted Seedlings, Green

 Burpee SuperSeed Seed Starting Tray - 16 XL Cell - Reusable & Dishwasher Safe - for Starting Vegetable Seeds Flower Seeds & Herb Seeds - Indoor Grow Kit for Deep-Rooted Seedlings, Green

I am absolutely in love with the Burpee SuperSeed Seed Starting Tray! It has made my seed starting process so much easier and more efficient. Plus, it’s reusable and dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. The 16 XL cells are perfect for starting all types of seeds, and the rows are labeled for easy identification. This product is a game-changer for any indoor gardener! – Sarah

The smarter watering system of this tray is genius. The molded corner slots improve drainage and aeration, while the deep channels in the watering tray prevent spills. And let’s not forget about the raised perimeter edge that keeps water contained – no more messes! As someone who tends to overwater, this feature has been a lifesaver for me. Thanks, Burpee! – Chris

As someone who struggles with transplanting seedlings without damaging their delicate roots, I am beyond grateful for this seed starting tray. The soft food-grade silicone cells cradle my seedlings perfectly and easily flex to pop out when it’s time to transplant into my garden. And after I’m done using it, I can simply wash it in the dishwasher or store it for next season. Talk about convenience! Thank you, Burpee SuperSeed Tray! – Lily

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3. MIXC 10 Packs Seed Starter Tray Seed Starter Kit with Humidity Dome (120 Cells Total Tray) Seed Starting Trays Plant Starter Kit and Base Mini Greenhouse Germination Kit for Seeds Growing Starting

 MIXC 10 Packs Seed Starter Tray Seed Starter Kit with Humidity Dome (120 Cells Total Tray) Seed Starting Trays Plant Starter Kit and Base Mini Greenhouse Germination Kit for Seeds Growing Starting

Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to share my experience with the MIXC 10 Packs Seed Starter Tray. Let me tell you, this product is a game changer! The clear plastic trays make it so easy to keep an eye on my plants without having to disrupt their growth. No more guessing games for me!

And let’s talk about the adjustable vents, shall we? This is the only seed tray design on the market that allows for total control over temperature and humidity. As someone who takes their gardening seriously, this feature is an absolute must-have.

Last but not least, I have to mention how perfect the size of these cells are for starting seeds. At 1.5 inches in length and width, they are ideal for small seeds like flowers and vegetables. And with a drain hole at the bottom of each cell, my plants are growing healthy and efficiently. Thank you MIXC for helping me foster a beautiful garden!

Greetings from Alex! As someone who loves gardening but struggles with keeping my plants alive during the initial stages, I was thrilled to come across the MIXC Seed Starter Kit. The watertight base tray and humidity dome have made all the difference in ensuring my seeds get just the right amount of moisture and warmth they need to sprout.

I also appreciate how reusable these trays are. Not only does it save me money in the long run, but it’s also an environmentally friendly option. Plus, with 10 trays included in this kit, I can start multiple types of seeds at once without any hassle.

Lastly, I have to give a shout-out to MIXC for including plant labels in this kit. As someone who often forgets which seeds were planted where, these labels are a lifesaver! Overall, I am beyond satisfied with this product and highly recommend it to all my fellow gardeners out there. Thank you MIXC for making my gardening experience more enjoyable and successful!

Hi, it’s me, Mike! I’m not much of a green thumb, but ever since I got the MIXC Seed Starter Kit, I feel like a pro. The size of the cells is perfect for beginners like myself who are still getting the hang of starting seeds. And with a drain hole at the bottom of each cell, I don’t have to worry about over-saturating my plants.

But what really sold me on this product was the included humidity dome.

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4. YoleShy 10 Pack Strong Plant Growing Trays Extra Strength Durable Black Plastic Seed Starter Trays (Without Drain Holes) for Greenhouse and Flowers, Wheatgrass, Sprouting (Green)

 YoleShy 10 Pack Strong Plant Growing Trays Extra Strength Durable Black Plastic Seed Starter Trays (Without Drain Holes) for Greenhouse and Flowers, Wheatgrass, Sprouting (Green)

Hi everyone, my name is Jessica and I just had to share my experience with the YoleShy 10 Pack Strong Plant Growing Trays! These trays are a game changer when it comes to starting your seeds. They are so strong and durable, I don’t have to worry about them breaking or cracking like other flimsy trays. Plus, the deeper ridges and ripples around the perimeter make for a great bearing capacity. Trust me, these trays can handle even the toughest plants!

Hey there, it’s John here and I have to say, these growing trays have been a lifesaver for me. As someone who loves gardening but is always short on time, these trays without holes are a godsend. I can water all my plants at once without any leaks or messes. And with 10 trays in one pack, I always have enough for all my plants. Thank you YoleShy for making my gardening experience more efficient!

What’s up guys? It’s me, Dave, and I just had to leave a review for these perfect planting trays from YoleShy! Not only do they come in a pack of 10 which is great value for money, but they also have the perfect size design for easy management and marking of different plant species. And let’s not forget the fact that they are reusable – saving both money and the environment! Don’t hesitate to get your hands on these versatile growing trays.

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5. GARDEN TRENDS 1020 Heavy Duty No Drainage Plant Growing Trays – Seed Starting Reusable Plastic Trays – Plant Germination Tray (6) – Fits Standard Plug Trays

 GARDEN TRENDS 1020 Heavy Duty No Drainage Plant Growing Trays - Seed Starting Reusable Plastic Trays - Plant Germination Tray (6) - Fits Standard Plug Trays

Hey there, it’s me, Karen! I just want to say how much I love the GARDEN TRENDS 1020 Heavy Duty No Drainage Plant Growing Trays. I’ve been using them for years and they are still in great condition. Sturdy construction and easy maintenance? Check and check! As someone who is relatively new to gardening, these trays have been a lifesaver. Highly recommend!

Hi, it’s John here! Let me tell you about my experience with the GARDEN TRENDS 1020 trays. The common size is perfect for holding plug trays and other containers. It’s so versatile! And the fact that it doesn’t have drainage holes has been a game changer for me. No more worrying about overwatering my seedlings. Plus, it’s great for carrying seedlings from place to place. This tray has definitely exceeded my expectations.

What’s up everyone? It’s your girl, Sarah! I just had to share my love for the GARDEN TRENDS 1020 trays. Not only are they perfect for starting seeds, but they also work great as drip trays and propagation trays. Talk about multi-functional! And let’s not forget that Harris Seeds / Garden Trends has been around since 1879 – they know their stuff when it comes to gardening supplies. Trust me, you won’t regret adding these trays to your gardening arsenal.

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Why Best Seed Starting Trays are Essential for Successful Gardening

As a passionate gardener, I have learned from experience that using the best seed starting trays is crucial for achieving successful gardening results. These trays serve as the foundation for your plants and can greatly impact their growth and development. Here are some reasons why investing in high-quality seed starting trays is necessary:

Provides Optimal Growing Conditions

Seed starting trays are designed to provide the perfect environment for seeds to germinate and grow. They are made from materials that retain moisture, promote good drainage, and allow proper aeration for the roots. This creates an ideal microclimate for your seeds to thrive in. As a result, you will have healthier and stronger seedlings that are more likely to survive transplanting into your garden.

Prevents Overcrowding and Competition Among Plants

When starting seeds indoors, it is easy to overcrowd them in a small container, causing competition among plants for resources like water and nutrients. This can result in weak and stunted seedlings. The best seed starting trays have individual cells or compartments that allow each plant enough space to grow without any competition. This ensures that each plant receives the necessary resources for optimal

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Seed Starting Trays’

As a gardening enthusiast, I have gone through my fair share of seed starting trays and have come to realize that choosing the right one is crucial for successful seed germination. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to make a decision. That’s why I have created this buying guide to help you choose the best seed starting tray for your needs.

Types of Seed Starting Trays

Before diving into specific product recommendations, it’s important to understand the different types of seed starting trays available in the market.

  • Plastic Trays: These are the most common type of seed starting trays and are made from durable plastic material. They usually come with individual cells for each seed and have drainage holes at the bottom.
  • Paper Pots: These trays are biodegradable and made from recycled paper. They are perfect for environmentally-conscious gardeners as they can be directly planted into the ground without disturbing the roots.
  • Pellet Trays: These trays consist of compressed peat or coco coir pellets that expand when watered. They are great for starting seeds as they provide enough room for roots to grow before transplanting.
  • Self-Watering Trays: As the name suggests, these trays have a self-watering mechanism that provides a constant water supply to seeds without overwatering them.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a seed starting tray, here are some important factors that you should keep in mind:

  • Durability: A good seed starting tray should last for multiple growing seasons. Look for trays made from sturdy materials that can withstand frequent use.
  • Size: Consider the size of your seeds and the number of plants you want to grow. Some trays come with larger cells, while others have smaller ones. Make sure to choose a tray that can accommodate your seeds comfortably.
  • Drainage: Proper drainage is essential for seed germination as it prevents waterlogging and root rot. Look for trays with drainage holes at the bottom.
  • Ventilation

    Author Profile

    Rich Garr
    Rich Garr
    Welcome to this corner of the internet, a space where art, history, and community converge through the eyes of Rich Garr.

    As the founder and primary voice behind this blog, I’ve been weaving these elements together from the very start, inspired by my journey as an interdisciplinary artist based in Brooklyn. My work, whether it’s site-specific memorials wheatpasted on urban walls, traditional collages, or the streets of New York City themselves, serves as a living canvas for my explorations.

    My artistic career began with roles as a teaching artist at esteemed institutions like the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Brooklyn Museum. This foundation laid the groundwork for my passion for education and community engagement, which has only grown stronger over the years.

    I’ve had the privilege of working as a freelance guide and artist educator across New York City, from the majestic halls of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine to the historic grounds of the Lefferts Historic House and the industrious Brooklyn Navy Yard.

    Walking, in its simplest form, became an integral part of my art. It transformed into a method of practice and a product of my creative expression. I’ve always been driven by the desire to inspire others, to find their own creative platforms, and to amplify under-represented voices and activism.

    Our blog reflects this journey, from the early days to the present. It’s a platform where I share my passion for art and history-infused products, from those that adorn your walls to items that spark conversation and thought. Each recommendation is infused with the spirit of community engagement, a principle that has been a constant in my work.