Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Seed Starting Trays Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Top Pick
- 2. Best Compact
- 3. Best for Beginners
- 4. Most Versatile
- 5. Best Splurge
- 6. Best Budget
- 7. Best Heavy-Duty
- 8. Best Value
- Seed Starting Trays Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose Seed Starting Trays
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
Choosing silicone seed starting trays can be tough. The Burpee SuperSeed 36-Cell Reusable Seed Starting Tray is the best option. It has 36 flexible pop-out cells that make planting easy. The value pick is the Mr. Pen Seed Starter Tray Kits. It has 400 cells, but you give up some durability compared to the top pick.
Most buyers decide between flexibility and cell count. Some prefer having more cells for more seeds, while others want trays that last longer. The following sections help you understand all your options.
Paid links. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Prices are pulled live from Amazon and change often. How this works
The Top 8
Top 8 Seed Starting Trays Reviewed in Detail
Let’s look closer at each product to see what they offer.
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 the top pick for silicone seed starting trays. It has 36 flexible pop-out cells that allow easy seedling removal. This feature makes it beginner-friendly. The cells are designed to help you start various plants, including vegetables, flowers, and herbs.
Compared to other options, this tray offers a perfect balance of quality and functionality. The 36-cell count is above average, making it suitable for larger planting projects. While the Mr. Pen Seed Starter Tray Kits offer more cells, they sacrifice some durability. The Burpee tray excels in long-term use.
A limitation is that it may not fit in small spaces due to its size. Those with limited room might find it challenging. However, if you have the space, this tray is a solid choice for starting seeds.
Pros
- Flexible pop-out cells for easy seedling removal
- Designed for a variety of plants, including vegetables and flowers
- Reusable design for long-term use
Cons
- Larger size may not fit in small areas
- Cells may not hold moisture well if not monitored
Best for: Beginners who want an easy-to-use tray. Not ideal for: Those with limited space.
A user-friendly choice for anyone starting seeds indoors.
2. Best Compact
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 Kits come in a 10-pack with a total of 400 cells. This makes it a great option for those who want to start many plants at once. Each tray measures 6.6″ x 4.6″, which is compact but offers many planting spots. The trays are designed to create a warm environment for seedlings, thanks to the included humidity domes.
When compared to other products, this kit stands out for its cell count. However, the durability is less than ideal. The Burpee trays are sturdier and designed for more extended use. This could be a concern for serious gardeners looking for long-term products.
A downside is that while you get a lot of cells, each individual cell may feel small for larger seeds. This could limit what you can grow. Overall, it’s a great starter kit for casual gardeners.
Pros
- Includes 10 trays with a total of 400 cells
- Comes with humidity domes for optimal growth
- Compact size fits easily in small spaces
Cons
- Less durable than other options
- Cells may be too small for larger seeds
Best for: Those starting many seeds at once. Not ideal for: Serious gardeners needing durable trays.
A great starting point for casual gardeners with lots of seeds.
3. Best for Beginners
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 feature 216 cells, arranged in sets of 6. Each cell measures 1.5″ square by 2.25″ deep, promoting healthy root development. This design encourages sturdy plant growth. The material is durable and reusable, which is a plus for eco-friendly gardening.
Compared to the other options, this tray offers a good balance of cell count and durability. However, it lacks features like humidity domes that some competitors provide. The Burpee and Mr. Pen trays offer more advanced features for seedling care. This makes them more suitable for beginners.
A limitation is that it may not be the best choice for those with limited space. The size and number of cells could take up more room than expected. It is a good pick for gardeners looking for durability and root development.
Pros
- Promotes healthy root development with deep cells
- Durable and reusable for long-term gardening
- Good cell count for multiple plants
Cons
- Lacks humidity dome for moisture control
- May take up more space than desired
Best for: Gardeners focused on healthy root growth. Not ideal for: Those with limited planting space.
A solid choice for durability and root development.
4. Most Versatile
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 is designed for small spaces. It features 8 extra-large cells, making it suitable for starting seeds indoors. The dimensions are compact, measuring 11.5″ x 5-3/16″ x 2-1/4″. This makes it easy to fit on windowsills or small tables.
Compared to other trays, it offers flexibility without sacrificing space. While the larger trays have more cells, this tray is perfect for those with limited room. The design makes it easy to monitor growth and provide care.
However, the tradeoff is the reduced number of seedlings you can start at once. If you want to grow many plants, this may not be the best option. This tray works well for small gardens or limited indoor spaces.
Pros
- Compact size fits easily on windowsills
- Extra-large cells for larger seedlings
- Reusable and dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
Cons
- Only 8 cells limits planting options
- Not suitable for starting many seeds at once
Best for: Indoor gardeners with limited space. Not ideal for: Those wanting to grow many seedlings.
An excellent choice for small indoor gardens.
5. Best Splurge
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 a humidity dome and base. Each tray has 12 cells, allowing for different planting options. The clear design helps you monitor your plants easily. This is a great feature for beginners.
In comparison to others, it offers a good level of visibility while planting. However, the cell count is lower than that of the top picks, which may limit planting. The adjustable vents are a helpful addition for controlling humidity, which makes it practical for many gardeners.
A limitation is that the smaller cell count may not suit those wanting to start many seeds. If you plan to grow a large garden, this option may be too small. It’s a good fit for smaller projects.
Pros
- Includes humidity dome for moisture control
- Clear design allows easy plant monitoring
- Adjustable vents regulate temperature and humidity
Cons
- Only 12 cells limit planting options
- Not ideal for larger gardening projects
Best for: Beginners wanting visibility while planting. Not ideal for: Those starting large gardens.
A practical choice for small planting projects.
6. Best Budget
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 come with humidity vented domes and bases. Each tray holds multiple cells, designed for seed starting and indoor gardening. The adjustable ventilation helps create optimal conditions for seedlings.
Compared to other trays, the Gardzen kits offer good quality and versatility. The added vents allow you to control airflow, which is a bonus for many gardeners. However, the cell count is lower than larger kits, which may not satisfy those with big planting plans.
A significant limitation is the lower cell count in each tray. If you want to start many seeds, this tray may not be sufficient. These trays are best for those who appreciate versatility and care for seedlings in smaller quantities.
Pros
- Comes with humidity vented domes for temperature control
- High-quality and durable material for long use
- Adjustable ventilation promotes healthy seedlings
Cons
- Lower cell count may not meet larger gardening needs
- Limited visibility compared to clear options
Best for: Gardeners who appreciate adjustable features. Not ideal for: Those needing many seedlings started.
Versatile and durable for indoor gardening needs.
7. Best Heavy-Duty
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. Each tray is designed with adjustable vents for moisture control. The transparent material allows for easy observation of seedlings during growth.
In comparison, this kit offers a good amount of cells, making it suitable for larger planting projects. However, its durability may not match that of other options like the Burpee trays. This could affect long-term use, especially for more serious gardeners.
A downside is that the smaller cells may not accommodate larger seeds well. If you grow bigger plants, this may not be ideal. It works best for those focused on starting many smaller seedlings.
Pros
- Contains 200 cells for extensive planting options
- Transparent design for easy seedling monitoring
- Adjustable vents for humidity control
Cons
- Durability may not match some competitors
- Cells may be too small for larger seeds
Best for: Gardeners starting many small seeds. Not ideal for: Those with larger seed types.
A great choice for extensive planting projects.
8. Best Value
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 include 120 cells in total. Each kit comes with a transparent dome, helping retain moisture while allowing airflow. This design supports healthy seed growth and is user-friendly.
Compared to other options, this kit offers a balance of cell count and convenience. However, durability is less than that of the Burpee trays and may not hold up for long-term use. This might be a concern if you plan to use them frequently.
A limitation is that the cells are smaller, which might restrict larger plants. Overall, it’s a solid choice for casual gardeners who want an easy and convenient option.
Pros
- Includes 120 cells for a variety of planting
- Transparent dome for moisture retention
- Compact design fits in smaller areas
Cons
- Less durable compared to other options
- Cells may be too small for larger seedlings
Best for: Casual gardeners looking for an easy solution. Not ideal for: Serious gardeners needing durable trays.
A convenient option for everyday seed starting.
Seed Starting Trays Compared Side by Side
The table below compares different silicone seed starting trays. It includes specifications like cell count, dimensions, and additional features. Buyers looking for specific traits should focus on the corresponding rows.
| # | 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 Compact | Mr. Pen | $29.99 | Check |
| 3 | The Hydroponic City Seed Starter Trays | Best for Beginners | The Hydroponic City | $8.99 | Check |
| 4 | Burpee SuperSeed Windowsill Seed Starting Tray | 8 XL… | Most Versatile | Burpee | $8.97 | Check |
| 5 | Bonviee 5-Pack Seed Starter Trays | Best Splurge | Bonviee | $9.99 | Check |
| 6 | Gardzen 5-Set Seed Starter Tray Kits | Best Budget | Gardzen llc | $16.99 | Check |
| 7 | MIXC 5 Pack Seed Starter Tray | Best Heavy-Duty | MIXC | $17.99 | Check |
| 8 | Mr. Pen- Seed Starter Tray Kits | Best Value | 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 used information from product listings, customer reviews, and gardening websites. Specific data came from manufacturer specifications and retailer descriptions. This helped us gather the most relevant features for each tray.
How we built this shortlist
Our shortlist includes eight popular silicone seed starting trays. We looked at around 20 options before narrowing down to these. Key criteria included durability, ease of use, and environmental impact.
What we ruled out and why
We dropped trays without enough positive reviews or those made from low-quality materials. Products that did not include important features like humidity control were also excluded. This ensured we only focused on reliable options.
What we did not do
We did not test any products by hand or take lab measurements. We also did not create any scores based on personal experience. All information is based on available data and user feedback.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated monthly to reflect the latest information. New products may be added based on customer interest and trends. We also check for changes in availability and features.
How to Choose Seed Starting Trays
Cell Count
Look for trays with enough cells for your needs. If you want to plant many seeds, aim for at least 36 cells. Smaller trays are good for few plants, while larger ones suit bigger gardens.
Material Quality
Choose trays made from durable materials, like high-quality plastic or silicone. This ensures they last for multiple uses. Reusable trays save money and are better for the environment.
Humidity Control
Consider trays with humidity domes or adjustable vents. These features help maintain the right levels for seed growth. They also protect seedlings from extreme temperatures.
Size and Dimensions
Pay attention to the size of the trays. For windowsill gardening, smaller trays work better. Larger trays are suitable for greenhouses or outdoor setups.
Ease of Use
Look for trays that are easy to handle and clean. Trays with pop-out cells or clear designs make monitoring growth simple. This adds convenience to your planting experience.
What to look for
Cell Flexibility
Flexible cells allow easy removal of seedlings. This feature is important for avoiding damage to roots. Trays like the Burpee SuperSeed have this design, making them user-friendly.
Environmental Impact
Consider the sustainability of the materials used. Trays made from recyclable materials are better for the planet. Reusable options contribute to less waste and promote eco-friendly gardening.
Design Features
Trays with humidity domes help maintain moisture. Some trays include adjustable vents for airflow. These features support optimal growth conditions, leading to healthier plants.
Durability
Durability is key for repeated use. High-quality plastic or silicone trays can withstand wear and tear. Investing in durable trays can save money and hassle over time.
Seedling Monitoring
Transparent trays let you observe seedlings without removing them. This is beneficial for checking moisture levels and growth. It helps ensure your plants thrive without disturbance.
Frequently asked questions
What are silicone seed starting trays?
Silicone seed starting trays are flexible planting trays designed to grow seeds. They allow easy removal of seedlings and are often reusable.
Why choose silicone over plastic trays?
Silicone trays are more flexible, making it easier to pop out seedlings. They are also often more durable and can withstand temperature changes.
How many seeds can I start in one tray?
The number of seeds varies by tray. Many trays have 12 to 36 cells. Some larger options have even more, like 400 cells.
Do I need a humidity dome with my tray?
A humidity dome helps maintain moisture for seed growth. It is not mandatory, but it supports better germination rates.
How do I clean my silicone seed starting trays?
Cleaning is simple. Use warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Rinse well and allow to dry completely before storing.
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 safe pest control U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- USDA plant hardiness zones USDA Agricultural Research Service
About the author
Similar guides
- 8 Best Heavy Duty Seed Starting Trays in 2026 Tools & Garden
- 8 Best Reusable Seed Starting Trays in 2026 Tools & Garden
- 8 Best Roof Rake Menards in 2026 Tools & Garden
- 8 Best Yost Bench Vises in 2026 Tools & Garden
- 8 Best Portable Socket Organizers in 2026 Tools & Garden
- 8 Best Werner Fiberglass Extension Ladders in 2026 Tools & Garden
