Cling Film For Covering Seed Trays/Cells

[Cosmo and Dibs]

Most seed packets say 'cover seeds trat with propagator lid or clear polythene bag' to retain moisture.

But, can you use cling film and does it have the same effect? If so, would I need to make breathing holes in it?

[chris]

I've covered some seed trays with clingfilm, and as soon as the seedlings (leeks) broke through the compost surface, I removed it. Didn't poke any holes in it..

Clear drink bottles will do too, with the top part cut off... I used these a while ago (maybe 10 years ago?) when I was germinating seeds.

[Creemteez]

Cling film works the same, it's just not as strong as say, a clear plastic sandwhich bag and also tends to get weighed down more by any condensation build up. If you want to use it just make sure that you insert something (an arch of garden wire, a couple of plant labels) into the pot or tray to hold the film well above the compost so that your emerging seedlings have room to poke thier heads up!

[Madasafish]

I grow begonias from seed by covering tray with clingfilm - no holes- and leaving it covered for two months until plants are large enough to transplant.

Ditto lobelias...

[sweetiepea]

I've used it too and usually remove partially when seedlings start to emerge. I agree about the condensation weighing it down sometimes. I use a deep seed tray to help prevent it touching the seedlings.

[piskieinboots]

I use it also - works fine