Heat Mats

[Ellis003]

Hi Gang,

Its probably been asked before but I can't find it. What is the best strength seedling heat mat to buy? Will a 21w be ok or shall I go for the 30w?

21w Seedling heating mat for better veggie, herb and flower seed germination– warms the root range 10 °C to 20 °C above the ambient temperature.

30w Seedling heating mat for better veggie, herb and flower seed germination– warms the root range 10 °C to 25 °C above the ambient temperature.

Thanks

 

[The Haroo ln]

Any heat mat that will sufficiently help heat your seedlings to around 20c - 25c is fine. I use the one below. It has worked fine for the last 2 years for me.

 

[Ellis003]

Any heat mat that will sufficiently help heat your seedlings to around 20c - 25c is fine. I use the one below. It has worked fine for the last 2 years for me.

Thanks mate thats actually the one im looking at.

 

[StoneCarver]

I recommend using the heat mat in conjunction with a thermostat with a probe such as this one:

INKBIRD Digital Temperature Controller w/ Dual Outlets of Heating 306T

ITC-306T is a pre-wired heating output temperature controller with a time function. It can be set at two individual temperatures for day and night in one day, which is much more suitable for aquariums, pets breeding, hatching, fungus fermenting, seed germination accelerating and etc.

www.inkbird.com

That thermostat can be set for two different temperatures for day and night. That way it heats in the day time and is cooler at night.
My thermostat is less sophisticated. To get day/night temperature cycles, I have mine on a timer.

 

[deluxestogie]

I have used standard 17 watt seedling heat mats (no controller) for over a decade. I used them within my enclosed back porch. No day/night cycling. They just run non-stop, until all of my seed starts have germinated. The issue with regard to greater wattage is the ambient temperature in which you are using it.

During particularly cold periods, I have simply placed a large bubble-pad mailing envelope beneath the heat mat for improved thermal efficiency. I sometimes place a cooking thermometer onto the base of the tray to get a rough idea of the temp at the bottom of my germination cups. I aim for 70 to 85°F, but between 65 and 70°F, germination is just a bit slower.

Bob

EDIT: Most commercial growers use similar mats that are big enough to accommodate four 1020 trays each.

 

[Ellis003]

Where's the best place for the heat mat my 2 choices are a stone windowsill but this is above a radiator (I can turn this off if I need to) or on my desk, I have some spare kitchen tiles I could put under the mat if its not meant to go directly on to wood. I'm going to start the germination in small jars.

Cheers