Indoor Planting Trays: Plastic vs. Biodegradable Options

Indoor Planting Trays: Plastic vs. Biodegradable Options.

One of the most important elements of gardening is selecting the right planting medium. The type of planting medium you choose will determine how your plants grow and thrive. The planting tray, in particular, is an important component for germination and maintaining healthy seedlings. Gardeners have two major options: plastic and biodegradable trays. This article examines the differences between these two options to help you choose the best planting tray.

Plastic Trays.

Plastic planting trays, made of polypropylene plastic, are durable and highly reusable. Compared to biodegradable materials, they're less likely to break down and are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. Gardeners have been using plastic planting trays for decades. They're particularly recommended when you plan to reuse the trays several times as they are designed to withstand wear and tear of repeated use.

Advantages.

- Highly durable.

- Reusable.

- Simple to clean.

- Available in a range of sizes and shapes.

- Recommended for reuse.

Disadvantages.

- Long decomposition period.

- Not environmentally friendly.

- Not suitable for organic farming.

- Can build disease or infection if not sterilized properly.

Biodegradable Trays.

Biodegradable planting trays offer a more environmentally friendly option than plastic trays. They're made from renewable sources such as sugarcane waste, bamboo grass, straw, or cardboard. They typically come with a shorter shelf life hence buying them in bulk is not recommended. When disposed of, they break down into the soil, providing nutrients that help your plants grow. The trays are also suitable for organic farming since they help control soil erosion, suppress weeds, and add organic material to the soil in the process.

Advantages.

- Environmentally friendly.

- Control soil erosion.

- Made from renewable sources.

- Decompose in soil providing nutrients.

- Suitable for organic farming.

Disadvantages.

- Can break down faster than desired.

- Not suitable for acidic soil.

- Can disintegrate if wet or moistened constantly.

- Cannot be reused.

Selecting The Best Tray.

Before selecting your tray, you need to consider the factors that will affect the growth of your plants. Consider the type of soil you'll use, the amount of light exposure the tray will receive, and the amount of water the tray will contain. For instance, if you stay in an area with acidic soil, biodegradable trays will not be suitable; instead, plastic trays will aid in protecting your plants. Similarly, if you have planters where your plants grow, plastic trays are recommended since biodegradable trays will disintegrate if exposed to constant moisture.

Conclusion.

In conclusion, selecting the right planting tray depends on your needs and preferences. Plastic trays provide a more durable and long-lasting option that's easy to clean and available in a broad range of sizes. Biodegradable trays offer an environmentally friendly choice that provides essential nutrients for your plants. Before purchasing either of the trays, consider your soil pH levels, amount of water and light, as well as your long-term objectives to make the best purchase possible.

Should you need more information on planting trays or need to purchase trays, contact us today or visit our website for a variety of high-quality planting trays.

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