Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Seed Starting Trays Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Top Pick
- 2. Best Premium
- 3. Best Compact
- 4. Best for Beginners
- 5. Most Versatile
- 6. Best Value
- 7. Best Lightweight
- 8. Best Budget
- Seed Starting Trays Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- What to look for
- How to Choose Seed Starting Trays
- Frequently asked questions
You want to find the best reusable seed starting trays. The Burpee SuperSeed 36-Cell tray is our top pick. It has 36 flexible pop-out cells, which make planting easy. This design helps you start a variety of plants indoors. For a great value, consider the Mr. Pen seed starter tray kit. It offers 400 cells across ten trays, but it lacks individual cell flexibility.
Many buyers look for either flexibility or the total number of cells. If you prefer a tray with more cells, you might give up the ease of individual planting. The rest of this page will help you compare other products and make an informed choice.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Seed Starting Trays Reviewed in Detail
In this section, we will review several reusable seed starting trays. Each option has unique features that can help your gardening efforts.
1. Top Pick
Burpee SuperSeed 36-Cell Reusable Seed Starting Tray for Indoor Seedlings
- EASIER SEED STARTING: Our Burpee SuperSeed tray with 36 flexible pop-out cells is designed to simplify indoor seed starting for all your favorite vegetables, flowers and herbs. Just add seed starting mix, seeds, water and light to get growing! Rows are labeled alphanumerically for seedling identification with included Plant-o-Gram diagram. Tray dimensions: 11.5″ x 10-3/8″ x 2-1/4″
- SMARTER WATERING SYSTEM: Molded corner slots in each cell improve drainage and soil aeration to set your seeds up for germination success. Deep channels in the watering tray draw excess away from the cells, while the raised perimeter edge keeps water contained in the tray – no spills! Seed tray side handles make it easy to lift and pour off excess water or check seedlings daily.
- SIMPLER TRANSPLANTING: Soft food-grade silicone cells cradle seedlings and gently flex to pop out when it’s time to transplant into your outdoor garden! This system is specially designed to reduce stress on your seedlings, so you don’t damage their roots. After transplanting, trays are easy to clean and reuse or simply store for next growing season. Top shelf dishwasher safe.
- SEED STARTER TIP: Many favorite vegetables, including peppers and tomatoes, must be started indoors before warmer weather arrives. Start pepper seeds 8-10 weeks before your area’s average last frost date, and tomato seeds 6-8 weeks before last frost. Check your Burpee seed packets for instructions on when and how to plant any of your herb, flower and vegetable seeds.
- 100% GUARANTEED: Burpee is committed to the success of all gardeners. We treat each order with care to ensure healthy seeds, plants, soil mixes and gardening supplies are packaged and sent in excellent condition. If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, we aim to make it right!
- After transplanting, seed trays are easy to clean and reuse or store for next growing season.
The Burpee SuperSeed 36-Cell Reusable Seed Starting Tray is designed for easy use. It features 36 flexible pop-out cells, allowing you to manage your seedlings effectively. This size is perfect for a variety of plants, from vegetables to flowers.
When compared to other models, it stands out for its thoughtful design and clear labeling. Each row is alphanumerically marked, making it simple to keep track of your seedlings. Other trays may offer more cells, but they often lack the flexibility and organization this one provides.
One limitation is that it is slightly bulkier than some compact options. If you are short on space, you might need to consider a smaller tray. However, its ease of use and solid performance make it an excellent choice for most gardeners.
Pros
- 36 flexible pop-out cells for easy planting
- Alphanumeric labeling for seedling identification
- Durable materials for repeated use
Cons
- Bulky design may not fit small spaces
- Cells may be too deep for very small seeds
Best for: Gardeners who want flexibility and organization. Not ideal for: Those with very limited space.
This tray makes starting seeds easy and organized.
2. Best Premium
Mr. Pen- Seed Starter Tray Kits, 10 Pack, Total 400 Cells
- Mr. Pen seed starter tray kit includes a 10-pack of 40-cell germination trays with matching bases, humidity vented domes, and a shovel and scoop for easy planting.
- The kit includes 10 durable base trays, 10 seed trays, and 10 transparent domes that create the perfect environment of warmth and humidity for young seedlings.
- Clear domes make it easy to monitor growth while enhancing the greenhouse effect to encourage faster, healthier sprouting.
- Also included are a dibber and a widger, giving you the right tools to sow seeds accurately and transplant seedlings with ease.
- Ideal for home gardens, classrooms, or greenhouse projects, this all-in-one kit helps ensure strong, healthy plants ready for transplanting.
The Mr. Pen Seed Starter Tray Kit includes 400 cells across ten trays. Each tray has 40 cells, which is a good option for growing many plants at once. The kit also provides matching bases and humidity domes, ensuring optimal conditions for your seedlings.
Compared to other picks, it offers the most cells, giving it excellent value. However, the design lacks individual cell flexibility that other trays provide. This means you cannot easily pop out individual seedlings for transplanting.
A downside is that the trays do not have alphanumeric labeling. This can make it challenging to keep track of which seeds are planted where. This kit is suitable for gardeners looking to start many plants but may not suit those who need individual cell control.
Pros
- 10-pack of trays provides a large cell count
- Includes humidity domes for better growth
- Durable base trays support seedlings well
Cons
- Lacks individual cell flexibility for easy transplanting
- No labeling system for tracking seedlings
Best for: Gardeners wanting to start many seeds at once. Not ideal for: Those needing flexibility in transplanting.
This kit is perfect for bulk planting needs.
3. Best Compact
The Hydroponic City Seed Starter Trays, 216-Cell Seedling Starter Trays (36 Trays – 6 Cells Each) + Plant Stakes
- Promotes Healthy Root Development: Each cell measures 1.5″ square by 2.25″ deep, designed to promote healthy root development and ensuring your seedlings get a strong start for robust growth.
- Durable and Reusable: Crafted from durable materials, these seed trays are reusable, promoting sustainable gardening practices.
- Ideal for a Variety of Seeds: Whether you’re growing flowers, herbs, succulents, or vegetables, these seedling starter trays accommodate a wide range of seeds, offering versatility for all your gardening endeavors.
- Efficient Drainage: Each seed starter tray is equipped with strategically placed drainage slits, ensuring proper water drainage to prevent overwatering and promote optimal soil moisture for seed germination and seedling growth.
- Bonus Plant Stakes: Order comes with (36) 6-cell trays and (5) THCity plant stakes for labeling and organizing your seedlings. Equivalent to 3 standard 1020 tray inserts.
The Hydroponic City Seed Starter Trays come with 216 cells across 36 trays. Each cell is 1.5 inches square and 2.25 inches deep. This design helps promote healthy root development.
In comparison to others, these trays are highly durable and specifically made for reuse. They provide an excellent environment for seedlings to grow strong. However, they are not as flexible as some other options, as the cells are fixed and not designed to pop out easily.
One limitation is that the number of cells may be overwhelming for new gardeners. If you are starting with just a few plants, this kit might feel too large. Still, it’s great for serious gardeners looking to grow many seedlings at once.
Pros
- 216 cells for large planting projects
- Durable and reusable for multiple seasons
- Promotes healthy root development
Cons
- Fixed cells make transplanting difficult
- Too many cells for small gardening needs
Best for: Experienced gardeners with large planting projects. Not ideal for: Beginners starting with just a few plants.
These trays are great for serious gardening efforts.
4. Best for Beginners
Burpee SuperSeed Windowsill Seed Starting Tray | 8 XL Cell | Seed Starter Tray | Reusable & Dishwasher Safe | Window Garden Starting Kit | Orange
- EASIER SEED STARTING: Our Burpee SuperSeed tray with 8 extra-large flexible pop-out cells is designed to simplify indoor seed starting. Just add seed starting mix, seeds, water and light to get growing! Perfectly sized for starting seeds in the windowsill: 11.5″ x 5-3/16″ x 2-1/4″. Rows are labeled alphanumerically for seedling identification with included Plant-o-Gram diagram.
- SMARTER WATERING SYSTEM: Molded corner slots in each cell improve drainage and soil aeration to set your seeds up for germination success. Deep channels in the watering tray draw excess away from the cells, while the raised perimeter edge keeps water contained in the tray – no spills! Seed tray side handles make it easy to lift and pour off excess water or check seedlings daily.
- SIMPLER TRANSPLANTING: Soft food-grade silicone cells cradle seedlings and gently flex to pop out when it’s time to transplant into your outdoor garden! This system is specially designed to reduce stress on your seedlings, so you don’t damage their roots. After transplanting, trays are easy to clean and reuse or simply store for next growing season. Top shelf dishwasher safe.
- SEED STARTER TIP: Many favorite vegetables, including peppers and tomatoes, must be started indoors before warmer weather arrives. Start pepper seeds 8-10 weeks before your area’s average last frost date, and tomato seeds 6-8 weeks before last frost. Check your Burpee seed packets for instructions on when and how to plant any of your vegetable, herb and flower varieties.
- 100% GUARANTEED: Burpee is committed to the success of all gardeners. We treat each order with care to ensure healthy seeds, plants, soil mixes and gardening supplies are packaged and sent in excellent condition. If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, we aim to make it right!
The Burpee SuperSeed Windowsill Seed Starting Tray features 8 extra-large cells. Each cell is designed for easy access and fits well on a windowsill. This tray is perfect for starting plants in smaller spaces.
Compared to larger options, this tray stands out due to its compact size. It is easy to move and has a clear design for monitoring growth. However, the limited cell count may not be sufficient for those wanting to start many plants at once.
A downside is that the larger cells might not be the best for starting very small seeds. If you want to cultivate tiny seedlings, you may need a different tray. Despite this, it is a solid choice for those with limited space who want to start a few plants.
Pros
- 8 extra-large cells for easy planting
- Compact size fits perfectly on windowsills
- Clear design for easy monitoring
Cons
- Limited cell count may not suit larger needs
- Larger cells are less suitable for tiny seeds
Best for: Gardeners with limited space. Not ideal for: Those wanting to start many plants.
This tray is a solid choice for windowsill gardening.
5. Most Versatile
Bonviee 5-Pack Seed Starter Trays, Humidity Dome, Base, 12-Cell Tray, Green
- 【Keep an eye on your plant】: The only design in the market- High quality clear plastic trays of this seed grow kit make it easier to observe your plants without interrupting the process.
- 【Total control】: Adjustable vents of this seed trays allow you to regulate the temperature and humidity of your seedling environment, so you have total control over the germination process.
- 【Perfect for the heat mat】: With its excellent resistance to high and low temperature, these seedling trays are strong enough to be used on a heat mat and no-worry melting.
- 【Perfect size for large seed】: 1.5 inch square for each cell makes these seed trays are suitable for large seeds, such as potatoes,tomates,perpers, eggplants and so on. 6 trays equivalent to a 1020 flat.
- 【Package include】5 x Seed Tray, 5 x Watertight Base Tray, 5 x Humidity Dome, 10 x Plant Labels (A must have for seedling).
The Bonviee 5-Pack Seed Starter Trays include humidity domes and bases. Each tray has 12 cells, allowing you to start multiple seeds. The clear plastic design allows easy observation of plants.
Compared to other options, this kit offers good visibility and humidity control. The adjustable vents on the domes let you manage temperature and moisture levels. However, the small number of cells limits the total plants you can start at once.
One limitation is that if you are growing a large number of plants, you might find these trays insufficient. This product works best for small gardening projects or those looking to grow a few varieties at a time. However, it offers excellent features for its size.
Pros
- Includes humidity domes for better growth
- 12-cell design allows for small planting
- Clear trays offer great visibility
Cons
- Limited cell count may not satisfy larger needs
- Adjustable vents may require frequent monitoring
Best for: Gardeners starting small projects. Not ideal for: Those needing to start many seeds at once.
These trays are excellent for small gardening projects.
6. Best Value
Gardzen 5-Set Seed Starter Tray Kits, Durable Plant Germination Trays with Humidity Vented Domes and Bases, Ideal for Seed Starting, Indoor Gardening, and…
- Upgraded with Adjustable Ventilation – Gardzen seed starter tray has been newly upgraded with two air vents added to the top, allowing you to easily adjust the ventilation for optimal seed growth. Say goodbye to stagnant air and hello to thriving plants!
- High Quality and Durable – These seedling starter trays are made from premium plastic material, ensuring long-lasting use for all your seed starting needs. Comes with thoughtfully attached stickers, you can achieve a tighter fit of dome and base for maximum efficiency.
- 40-Cell Capacity – Each seed starter kit in our set comes with a generous 40-cell capacity, providing ample space for all your seeds to sprout and thrive. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced gardener, this plant starter kit is perfect for starting your own garden paradise.
- Easy to Manage Kits – The 40-cell insert tray provides a simple, straightforward way to start seeds and grow plants from cuttings. The drain hole at the bottom of the seed tray prevents over watering. The clear dome allows you to clearly see the growth status.
- Versatile and User-friendly – This seed germination kit is not only suitable for starting seeds but also perfect for propagating cuttings and nurturing young plants.
The Gardzen 5-Set Seed Starter Tray Kits feature durable trays with humidity domes. Each kit includes 200 cells across five trays, making it suitable for larger plantings. The adjustable ventilation helps maintain optimal growing conditions.
When compared to other products, this kit has a good balance of size and control. The adjustable vents are a standout feature, allowing you to regulate airflow. However, the design may not be compact enough for very small spaces.
A limitation is that while the adjustable vents help, they may require more maintenance than fixed designs. If you prefer a set-it-and-forget-it system, this tray might not be the best fit. Nonetheless, it offers a lot of value for those who want to grow a variety of plants.
Pros
- 200 cells for large planting projects
- Adjustable vents for better growing conditions
- Durable materials for repeated use
Cons
- May not fit very small spaces
- Adjustable vents require monitoring
Best for: Gardeners needing large planting capacity. Not ideal for: Those with limited space.
This kit is great for large planting needs.
7. Best Lightweight
MIXC 5 Pack Seed Starter Tray, 200Cell Mini Propagator Greenhouse Grow Kit
- High quality transparent plastic cell trays of this seed grow kit make it easy to observe your plants without interrupting the process.
- Adjustable vents on the humidity dome of this seed starter kit allow you to regulate the temperature and humidity of your seedling environment, so you have total control over the growing process.
- Please read the size of each parts carefully. Cells size: 1.5″x 1.5″x 2″(suitable for small seeds); Dome height: 2.75″; Product size: 14.6″x 9.84″x 5.1″
- Bottom trays of our seed starter trays can be stacked one by one to save space. Therefore, you can stack the bottom trays before the seeds germinate to save your operating space, wherever indoor or outdoor.
- MIXC Seed Starter Tray contains: 5 x seed tray, 5 x bottom tray, 5 x humidity dome, 2 x garden tools, 10 x plant labels (A must have for seedling)
The MIXC 5 Pack Seed Starter Tray includes 200 cells in total. This allows for effective seed starting across five trays. The transparent design enables easy observation of plant growth.
Compared to others, it provides a good number of cells, but lacks strong drainage features. While it does have adjustable vents, the trays may not have the best drainage for overwatering concerns. This could lead to poor seedling health.
One limitation is the lack of detailed instructions for use. New gardeners may find it challenging to understand how to use the trays effectively. Overall, this is a decent choice for those looking to start many seeds but might require careful monitoring.
Pros
- 200 cells for extensive planting
- Transparent design for easy monitoring
- Adjustable vents help with humidity control
Cons
- Lacks strong drainage features
- May not provide best results for beginners
Best for: Gardeners starting many seeds. Not ideal for: New gardeners needing guidance.
These trays are suitable for extensive planting efforts.
8. Best Budget
Mr. Pen- Seed Starter Tray Kits, 6.6"x4.6", 10 Set, Total 120 Cells
- Mr. Pen seed starter tray kits come in a pack of 10, each featuring a 12-cell tray to help you grow healthy seedlings for your garden or home planting projects.
- The trays are made of durable, high-quality plastic with a transparent dome lid that helps retain moisture while providing proper ventilation through adjustable vents.
- Each cell is designed with a drain hole at the base to prevent overwatering and ensure that the roots stay healthy and free from rot.
- The trays allow for minimal root disturbance when seedlings are removed, thanks to the design that helps gently release the plants.
- The kit includes a shovel and scoop for easy planting and transplanting, making it a complete solution for gardeners and hobbyists.
The Mr. Pen Seed Starter Tray Kits come in a set of 10, with each tray holding 12 cells. This gives a total of 120 cells, which is practical for starting several seeds. The transparent dome helps retain moisture, aiding germination.
In terms of comparison, it offers a good balance of cell count and features. However, like some other options, the design may not allow for easy transplanting due to the fixed cell structure. The quality of the plastic used is decent but may not be as durable as some higher-end options.
One downside is that the smaller cell size may not work well for larger seeds. If you plan to grow bigger plants, these cells might not be deep enough. Overall, this kit works well for smaller gardening projects.
Pros
- Good cell count for small projects
- Includes humidity domes for better growth
- Transparent design for easy monitoring
Cons
- Small cell size may not suit larger seeds
- Fixed cells make transplanting difficult
Best for: Small gardening projects. Not ideal for: Larger plants needing more space.
This kit is suitable for small-scale gardening efforts.
Seed Starting Trays Compared Side by Side
The table below compares various reusable seed starting trays. You will see columns for brand, cell count, and special features. This information helps you choose the right reusable seed starting trays for your needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Burpee SuperSeed 36-Cell Reusable Seed Starting Tray for… | Top Pick | Burpee | $11.97 | Check |
| 2 | Mr. Pen- Seed Starter Tray Kits | Best Premium | Mr. Pen | $29.99 | Check |
| 3 | The Hydroponic City Seed Starter Trays | Best Compact | The Hydroponic City | $8.99 | Check |
| 4 | Burpee SuperSeed Windowsill Seed Starting Tray | 8 XL… | Best for Beginners | Burpee | $8.97 | Check |
| 5 | Bonviee 5-Pack Seed Starter Trays | Most Versatile | Bonviee | $9.99 | Check |
| 6 | Gardzen 5-Set Seed Starter Tray Kits | Best Value | Gardzen llc | $16.99 | Check |
| 7 | MIXC 5 Pack Seed Starter Tray | Best Lightweight | MIXC | $17.99 | Check |
| 8 | Mr. Pen- Seed Starter Tray Kits | Best Budget | Mr. Pen | $11.85 | Check |
| 9 | 10 Plant Growing Trays | — | Living Whole Foods | $19.89 | Check |
| 10 | Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix for Seed Starting | — | The Scotts Company LLC | $10.69 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from trusted gardening websites, user reviews, and product specifications. This research included more than 50 seed starting trays. We focused on trays available on Amazon and other reputable gardening retailers.
How we built this shortlist
Our shortlist includes six top products based on features, user ratings, and popularity. We looked for trays that are reusable and durable. The products were evaluated based on their designs and effectiveness for starting seeds indoors.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded trays made from low-quality materials or without enough positive reviews. This kept our focus on reliable, well-rated options. If a product had less than a 4-star rating, it was removed from consideration.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing or lab measurements were conducted for these products. We did not create our own scoring system. All evaluations were based on existing data from reliable sources.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly to reflect new products and changes in availability. We aim to refresh the content every three months or sooner if major updates are needed.
What to look for
Cell Count
The number of cells in a seed starting tray is important. More cells mean you can start more plants at once. If you plan to grow a variety of plants, look for trays with 36 cells or more. Fewer cells may be better if you want to manage a smaller garden.
Material Quality
The material of the tray affects its durability and reuse potential. Look for trays made from thick plastic that can withstand multiple uses. Avoid trays made from flimsy materials, as they may crack or break after a few uses.
Drainage Features
Good drainage is important for healthy seedlings. Many trays have holes at the bottom. These allow excess water to escape, preventing root rot. Ensure your chosen tray includes effective drainage features for the best results.
Humidity Control
Some seed starting trays come with humidity domes. These create a warm, moist environment for seedlings. If your home is dry, consider trays with domes to help seeds germinate more effectively.
Size and Portability
Consider the size of the trays and where you will use them. Trays that fit on windowsills or shelves are useful for indoor gardening. If you have limited space, choose compact models that are easy to move and store.
How to Choose Seed Starting Trays
Choose the Right Cell Count
Select a tray with enough cells to match your planting needs. If you want to start several types of plants, look for trays with at least 36 cells. For smaller gardening projects, 12-cell trays could suffice.
Check Material Durability
Look for trays made from sturdy plastic that can last for several planting seasons. Check product descriptions for details on material quality. Trays made from low-grade plastic may break after a few uses.
Look for Drainage Options
Ensure the tray has proper drainage holes. This feature is essential for preventing overwatering. A tray with good drainage will help your seedlings grow stronger.
Consider Humidity Features
If your environment is dry, consider trays with humidity domes. These domes help maintain moisture levels for seed germination. This can lead to healthier plants in the early stages.
Assess Size and Fit
Make sure your seed starting trays fit the space you have available. Measure windowsills or plant shelves before you buy. Compact trays work well in tight spaces but may reduce the number of seedlings you can start.
Frequently asked questions
What are reusable seed starting trays?
Reusable seed starting trays are containers designed for germinating seeds. They can be used multiple times and often come with features like drainage holes and humidity domes.
How do I clean reusable seed starting trays?
To clean your trays, wash them with warm soapy water. Rinse well and let them dry completely before storing or using again.
Can I use any soil in my seed starting trays?
It’s best to use a seed starting mix. This mix is lighter and provides better drainage compared to regular garden soil. Using the right soil helps seeds germinate effectively.
How often should I water seedlings in trays?
Water your seedlings when the top of the soil feels dry. This often means watering every few days. Always check moisture levels to avoid overwatering.
Do I need to use a humidity dome with my trays?
Using a humidity dome can help maintain moisture and warmth for seeds. If your environment is dry, a dome is recommended. It can improve germination rates.
Shopping around? We have 2 more seed starting tray guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- EPA WaterSense U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- EPA safe pest control U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
About the author
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