For large seeds, such as beans and sweet peas place one or two seeds on the top of each Rootrainer cell. Using your finger press each seed down to the correct depth. Dust a little compost over the seed, then treat as for cuttings. As soon as seeds begin to emerge, remove lid or take from the propagator.
Smaller seeds can be sown direct into the Rootrainers cells and prigked out after germination leaving one or two seedlings as required. Alternatively they can be sown into seed trays and then transplanted into the Rootrainers cells before the first true leaf appears. Plant as deep as possible using an old pencil as a dibber, with seed leaves just clearing the compost.
Air pruning
When roots emerge from the drainage holes, raise the Rootrainer tray up from the bench by standing on batons of wood or empty plant pots (right way up). This allows the circulation of air below the tray to dry off the root tips and encourage more roots in the cell
Watering
When needed, either water from the top with a
watering can fitted with a rose or stand the Rootrainer in the lid half filled with water for a few minutes.
Checking root progress
For inquisitive gardeners, Rootrainers are ideal, as the cells open up like a book so you can see how well the roots are growing.
Planting out
The unique book opening enables the plant to be easily removed without damaging the root system. Simply take each book from the tray, open it up and the plants are ready and waiting. No need to tease out the roots just pop in the planting hole, make sure that the top of the plug is covered by soil and gently firm then water.
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