The Seedling Heat Mat by Hydrofarm increases the success of seedlings and cuttings. Warmer root areas mean better germination. Seedling heat mats by Hydrofarm have been re-engineered for better performance and greater durability! The new, stronger heating wire, and thicker multi-layer construction offer more uniform heating and the durability to withstand rugged greenhouse environments.

For some types of seed, warmer temperatures are critical to germination. Want to start your spring garden indoors from seed this year? Unless you’ve got a very warm house, the seeds will benefit from a little extra heat. And you won’t believe the difference heat makes to the germination time, speed of growth, and overall health of your seedlings!

Commercial growers have long employed the use of bottom heat to effectively and inexpensively heat their greenhouses. Growers more closely control growing conditions with bottom heat, saving on heating costs by directing heat energy directly to the soil and plant’s roots rather than heating ambient air. Adding heat to the root zone is a proven method for increasing growth, and may be the only way to root cuttings from some species.

Most plants in greenhouses are planted in containers. Some containers are for propagation purposes. In nature, soil surrounds plants giving them added protection from the elements.  Soil collects heat from the sun during the day and slowly transfers that heat to plants roots.  Container plants have limited space for root growth. Often roots are touching or nearly touching container walls, making them much more susceptible to cold. Adding heat to container bottoms warms the soil which in turn retains heat longer than air. As the heat rises in the soil it warms the plants roots, stimulating growth.

Bottom heat is most commonly used for seed starting. Using bottom heat gives gardeners a significant jump on the season. Some seeds may be started as much as six to eight weeks early with a much higher success rate than without the additional heat. Many seeds are prone to damping off and botrytis, both of which are much less likely to occur in a warm environment. Propagation is also more successful with the use of bottom heat. Many crops show significant rooting results with bottom heat versus without. Plant’s rooting requirements vary, but few plants are harmed by the use of bottom heat and most plants benefit from it.

There are several ways to add bottom heat to your greenhouse. The easiest method for applying bottom heat is from a purchased seedling heat mat. Germination instructions for many seeds recommend growing seedlings at a cooler temperature once they have sprouted. Since most seedling will not need to stay on the heat mat long, a single heat mat can help start enough seeds to fill dozens of slats. Start with plants that appreciate a longer head start. When they are ready to transplant into larger pots or cell packs, it will be time to put the next round of seed starting trays on your heat mat.

Hydrofarm Seedling Heat Mat

• Increases success of seedlings and cuttings.
• Warms root are to 10-20 degrees Fahrenheit over ambient.
• Light, water & planting information printed on the mat.
• Waterproof construction.
• 6 Foot Power Cord.
• UL Listed.
• Available in three different sizes.

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