A local deli packs frozen foods in 5"x9"x2" aluminum trays with a plastic top. They are a convenient size for starting seeds (built in moisture cover!). I used a couple that way last year with fairly good results and this year I have a whole stack of them. However I dimly remember someone on DG saying aluminum was not good for seed germination. I also dimly remember from high school chemistry that aluminum quickly forms an oxide coating, meaning the soil would probably not contact the Al directly, so I am not sure if the warning is valid.
So, is Aluminum a no-no? If it is, would spraying the inside of the tray with plastic alleviate the problem?
Can aluminum trays be used to start seeds?
Good questions, Don, but I don't know ...never heard that aluminum was bad for germination...aluminum occurs naturally in the soil....
I wouldn't think that would be a problem
Have used them before, to hold paper pots, peat pots etc. to good effect. but never really planted directly in them.
Martha
I tried several times to post some photos for you.. but it keeps bringing me to the communities home page .. but I use them all the time.. even bought loaf pans from the dollar store or christmas tree shop with lids.. they work just fine.. just don't over water
trying again
more
Thanks all for sharing your experiences. I guess I'll go on using them.
OneWish, I appreciate your effort in uploading the pictures. Gee, those are some nice Coleus! What is the variety?
You are more organized than I am. Those computer printed ID tags look very professional! Your aluminum pans look much like the ones I have. I assume you punch holes in the bottom like I do.
when they are small no I don't put holes.. but just use a spray bottle to water so they don't drown.. I always use water gels in the bottom to catch any excess as well .. the first was TM prize strain improved.. 2nd is versa crimson gold .. I believe ... I love the p-touch labels.. they don't wear out either .. I have had some of those outside for years and show no wear at all .. I went overboard with those after the year I had 10 trays with washed off sharpie marker.. and had no clue what was what after hardening off... the rain just washed them away.. and it wasn't like each tray was one plant... I had several in each.. and new to seeds.. couldn't identify anything yet .. so before I knew about paint pens (which I use for annuals now).. that was my choice.. and I do love them since my handwriting stinks
;)
the new p-touch I bought last year can hook to the computer and I can save files for later use.. will print and cut them automatically.. can even add a logo or line drawing photo if I want
This message was edited Feb 24, 2012 8:33 AM
Don, I call Allison the "SEED QUEEN" and I mean that in the highest regards. I often go to her for seed germination information. ^_^
If it was not for her I would not of known how easy coleus are to grow from seed, and how to take cuttings. This is a cutting from a coleus i've had since last May.
;)
Never knew they were easy from seed...thanks, will have to try growing them!
real easy.. but slow growing at first.. they germinate.. and don't move for weeks
May not be good for me, then.....if it's not galloping along, I tend to toss......
def. not an instant gratification seed that is for sure.. but easy still
Worth the wait.
agreed
Figured I could count on you!
They look very healthy!