Propagator questions

[SaraJH]

Hi all,

I have decided that I need a propagator

But what to get? Heated? Unheated? Variable control heated?

It will be sited inside in the kitchen and I'm hoping to use it to start my toms from seed.

Also, when would I start on my tom seeds, my greenhouse is not heated.

Thanks in advance.

[SusieG]

Hi Sara
Not used a heated propagator - started my toms off 2 weeks ago in modules with a plastic dome thingy over the top. Popped on windowsill near to radiator and hey presto, all have sprouted now.
I'm moving them gradually to cooler positions until I put them out into my unheated greenhouse until big enough to pot on.
Think your electric propagator would be useful for chilli pepper seeds as mine are a no-show using above method, to date.
Good luck!

[veggiechicken]

I use a basic heated prop (not variable heat) for tomatoes and most things. Its in the kitchen so that I can keep an eye on it. As soon as the toms are showing I take the modules out and they move to the bedroom windowsill (because it has the best light).
As the seedlings grow they're moved to the unheated GH. If its sunny they're uncovered, if its cooler they have a clear plastic lid over them. At night, I cover the lid with bubble wrap.
As we speak, I have toms in the GH and on the windowsill.
Time to sow some more

[Alison]

Early for toms yet, I find they grow sturdier if sown towards the end of March and by then don't really need extra heat although a basic plastic cover helps. I do find the propogator very handy for my chillies and peppers though as I sow those earlier. Just a basic non thermostatic one here though, get good germination without exact control for the stuff I grow although some ornamentals can be more temperamental.

[Bal]

I put all my seed trays and modules on a table in the hall wit an electric blanket underneath them. They all germinate really well

[Bigmallly]

I put all my seed trays and modules on a table in the hall wit an electric blanket underneath them. They all germinate really well

Sounds a great idea but is it safe to use around water?

[Bal]

I use a plastc backed sheet over it with an extra lyre of plastic on top of that. I only leave them there until they germinate. And I usually only water with a sprayer. Hopefully
Y that's ok. They do have a degree of waterproofing built in incase of "accidents"