Propagators and their proper use?

[BrideXIII]

We only use heated propagators.
We don't always use the heat function, unless the seed needs it though, but in all cases the lid is obviously left on to start with, then as the seeds start to germinate we open the vents up a bit.
Once ALL the seeds have germinated we open the vents fully.
Once the seedlings are about an inch high we prop the lid up a bit. After about a week of this we take the lid off completly.

After that, we harden the plants off by putting them outside in the unheated greenhouse.

nice and precise, thank you, mine aren't vented, but i can see where the compromise is needed from your post. I have arranged propability

[FROSTYFRECKLE]

I just have cheapie unheated propagators, which includes the sandwich boxes from M&S cafe - the doomed lids are brill. Anyway I am growing sweetcorn this year for the first time, seeds rot in cold soil so I was thinking I will need a heated propagator (I have until May before I need to plant). I have vouchers for Homebase so it won't cost me money, should I get a heated propagator?

[Purplebint]

i have just raided my stock of plastic takeaway ( chinese) trays, i have hundreds, and figure these will make nice little mini propagators, two inside each other, one with holes punched so as to act as a resevoir, and one upside down on top as a lid

What a fab idea, thank you!

[FionaH]

Yeah what everyone else said Bride. I will be using my heated prop for the first time this year, excited Not sure what to start when, but definitely planning some sweetcorn to go next to the beans.
Last year I did manage to cook my pansies !

[Mike and Louise]

We mainly use our heated propagator (with the heat on) for Sweetcorns, Cucumbers, Caulflowers and Tomatoes.

We also use it (unheated) to start off our Runner Beans and French Beans. These then go in the ground when they are ready and it's warm enough.

[Irie Jan]

you could always try this! Not heated I know but looks good cheap way start lots of seeds off!

[BrideXIII]

you could always try this! Not heated I know but looks good cheap way start lots of seeds off!

that's given me an idea about the chillies and cross pollination

[Irie Jan]

that's given me an idea about the chillies and cross pollination

4 sticks around the plant and some fine netting to cage the plants in. Old net curtains!

[bramble]

frostyfreckle, if you are thinking of buying a propogator try to get one eith a thermostat. Mine does'nt have one and I am constantly keeping an eye in case it gets too hot.

[FionaH]

that's given me an idea about the chillies and cross pollination

Does everything come back to Chillies with you?

[BrideXIII]

Does everything come back to Chillies with you?

pretty much

[HotStuff]

Does everything come back to Chillies with you?

Life is chillies, everything else is just details

[Irie Jan]

Life is chillies, everything else is just details

Yeah well said! I like your style!