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  1. #1
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    Best starter plugs for seedlings

    What are the best starter plugs for seedlings? I have had mostly bad results with trying to transplant my seedlings into my aquaponic system. This time I want to start my seedlings in the unit so that the roots and stems won't get damaged. Any suggestions on the best starter plugs to use that will integrate well with the whole unit?

    Thanks!

  2. #2
    Members cedarswamp's Avatar
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    Re: Best starter plugs for seedlings

    I've used Grodan rockwool cubes, Oasis Horticubes(thanks Keith) and Aerogarden starter plugs with equal sucess.Still wanna try Rapid Rooters but for the best bang for my buck think I'll be sticking with the Horticubes.

    And of course you can always direct sow right in the beds as I do with some crops.

  3. #3
    Moderator stucco's Avatar
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    Re: Best starter plugs for seedlings

    this is what we use http://www.johnnyseeds.com/p-8087-mini- ... locks.aspx there is also a thread on here that shows how to make one.
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  4. #4
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    Re: Best starter plugs for seedlings

    Good! Thanks for the quick reply.

  5. #5
    Moderator urbanfarmer's Avatar
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    Re: Best starter plugs for seedlings

    Quote Originally Posted by stucco
    this is what we use http://www.johnnyseeds.com/p-8087-mini- ... locks.aspx there is also a thread on here that shows how to make one.
    I have a similar one. I make them with slightly aged rabbit poop. YUM!

  6. #6
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    Re: Best starter plugs for seedlings

    I have never seen that gizmo before, makes good sense! And, Urban Farmer, I could have imagined that response from you :D Unfortunately, I haven't gotten into rabbits as of yet. I am still planning to try out your red wigglers under gravel in the FT idea, maybe this coming week. (Please stop me before I do something foolish!) You were serious right?

  7. #7
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    Re: Best starter plugs for seedlings

    red wigglers in your growbeds is a good thing..
    i direct sow most seeds..
    cuttings do well just stuck into the media

  8. #8
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    Re: Best starter plugs for seedlings

    Yes, I know about the red wigglers in the GB and have enjoyed all of the debates around this idea on the forum. But, Urban Farmer also suggested putting them under gravel at the bottom of the fish tank to help clean up sediment. He claims it works well and frankly I love the idea (but I have serious doubts and that's why I have yet to try it.)

  9. #9
    Moderator davidstcldfl's Avatar
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    Re: Best starter plugs for seedlings

    I also like the horticubes. No pre-treating ..or mixing stuff, or filling little pots, no pressing little blocks together. Just drop in the seed, wet the cube and wait about 2 days...
    I use the 1 inch cubes, they don't take up much space either.
    I do use pelletized lettuce seeds....usually close to 100% germ. rate. I think I'd have 100% all the time, if I didn't miss a cube or two...
    I've used non-pellitized seed too, with good results. Broccoli came up just as fast as the lettuces.

    There is almost no mess, just the few seeds I drop. I normally do mine inside, in the eve, watching tv.
    "Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same." - President Ronald Reagan

  10. #10
    Moderator urbanfarmer's Avatar
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    Re: Best starter plugs for seedlings

    Quote Originally Posted by chrisfoerst
    I have never seen that gizmo before, makes good sense! And, Urban Farmer, I could have imagined that response from you Unfortunately, I haven't gotten into rabbits as of yet. I am still planning to try out your red wigglers under gravel in the FT idea, maybe this coming week. (Please stop me before I do something foolish!) You were serious right?


    And yes he's serious. Worms are amazing in gravel grow beds.

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