What is the correct way to use an electric propagator ?

[wbmkk]

I was given a used Parasene electric propagator a couple of years ago, but it had no cover.

Looking on the internet, I think it would have originally been supplied with two standard sized seed trays, with two plastic tops.

Last year I placed a gravel tray in the green base and fitted the plastic cover on top and it seemed OK for my tomatoes. Now I have an allotment, I shall make more use out of it by starting off other plants too.

I was wondering if I should maybe pour in some water, just a few mm deep, then place my gravel tray inside, followed by seed trays and pots, all under the one large plastic cover.

Or ... Would I be better off just placing directly on the propagator base, two seed trays and then place two seed tray lids on top.

Or ... Should I put in a layer of compost or maybe sand first, before adding trays.

Thanks

[Scarlet]

I have a piece of capillary matting in the base of mine, I just place my pots on that and cover with a plastic lid.

[Wendie]

I've read that you ought to put gravel on the bottom slightly damp but I haven't got gravel so i used damp compost and find that the condensation from the lid keeps it moist anyway. I put my seed trays and pots on top of it, did this last year and doing the same this year. Hope all goes well

[Bren In Pots]

I have a piece of capillary matting in the base of mine, I just place my pots on that and cover with a plastic lid.

I do the same thing, I find the damp matting distributes the heat well.

[Penellype]

Another vote for damp matting here.

[Tripmeup]

Damp matting too...

[Methe]

I have always used garden grit or sand.

[Tadpole123]

I use damp old towels, works well to distribute the heat and they're washable.

[Alison]

I just put my pots straight in there, works fine and less hassle than having to add any gravel, mat or additional soil. I only leave stuff in their briefly anyway until it germinates so no problems.

[snakeshack]

I use sharp sand in mine


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[Scarlet]

I just put my pots straight in there, works fine and less hassle than having to add any gravel, mat or additional soil. I only leave stuff in their briefly anyway until it germinates so no problems.

Actually, I have two props my "main" one which has the matting and a small window prop which I haven't got round to putting anything in the bottom but I have found that without the damp matting I get cold spots, anything that gets put in the centre will germinate first.

[chefgage]

I just put the pots straight in and put the lid on. everything usually germinates ok

[wbmkk]

Thank you all for the many replies

I think damp towels will be easy ... I have no sand

Best wishes to everybody for the 2014 season

[treepixie]

Damp matting for me too

[Alison]

Actually, I have two props my "main" one which has the matting and a small window prop which I haven't got round to putting anything in the bottom but I have found that without the damp matting I get cold spots, anything that gets put in the centre will germinate first.

Interesting, not found that a problem in either of mine, one of which is large and the other small. Maybe it depends on where you have them, the room I use is quite warm as the boiler is in there as well as the freezer so even when the heating isn't on there is quite a bit of warmth.