Hmm, is this heated prop too hot?

[PrideRavyn]

I inherited an ancient heated propgator from my grandfather (it must be at least 22 years old because he died when I was 4 and I'm 27 this year!). I have only just got it plugged in to test it out as there was every chance it wouldn't work since it has been sitting in the attic for ages. However work it does, and very well! I have a thermometer sitting in it at present and with the vents closed it's running at a steady 30C and with them open at 28.5C, with the lid on. This is with no soil or seeds in yet, just empty with the thermometer, with the lid on.

Problem is, is this not too hot? Most seed packets I have have a preferred sowing temp of between 18 and 25C. Will it be less hot once it has soil to heat? Or should I not use the lid maybe? It has no thermostat to control it, it's literally an on/off jobbie... Having said that, I am planning on putting it in the shed (heated at night for the quail) so this might make a difference overall once it is in a colder environment maybe?

Any advice much appreciated, I don't want to fry any seedlings!

[smallblueplanet]

Why not put some modules/pots with compost in it and check the temperature - that way you'll know for sure.

[PrideRavyn]

good idea, though I will have to find a smaller thermometer as the present one only just fits!!

[smallblueplanet]

Is it a heated prop that just raises the temp above what the ambient temp is, in which case I can't see it'd be too warm if used outdoors?

[PrideRavyn]

To be honest I have no idea, it didn't come with any instructions or booklets at all

[Aberdeenplotter]

use a soil thermometer immersed in the compost. Only then will you really know.

[Anna Stox]

This is probably a very silly question, but are you sure it's not an egg incubator at that temp!

[PrideRavyn]

Anna, I'd almost prefer it was an incubator, I could do with one of those more than a heated prop!

I have run it today with soil in modules and a tray inside, it's still running at 30C, next test will be to try it in the shed!

[Flummery]

You may not need it. I don't have one. I get chillies and toms to germinate with a poly bag or one of those seed tray lids. You certainly don't for cabbage and lettuce etc.