Heated Propagators - A Buyers Guide

At this time of year, every keen gardener is itching to get started with their planting “ but with the temperatures low, and chance of snow still present for another month, theres not a huge mount you can do outside.

An electric propagator provides an excellent solution, enabling you to get started growing from seed right now, ready for transplanting to your greenhouse or cold frame in the early spring.

In this expert buying guide, we teach you everything needed to make an informed decision when it comes to finding the right heated propagators.

How to choose the right heated propagator

The benefits of heated propagators

To help young seedlings germinate, and give them the best start in life, they need constant, warm soil temperatures of between 20°C and 25°C.

Electric heated propagators are the best way of creating and maintaining these conditions, providing you with a consistently warm, moist environment that will aid germination, and help your young plants to thrive. At the same time, they will provide excellent protection from pests and insects.

This can help give you a head start with your perennials, tender plants and vegetables, so you can enjoy them for longer during the summer months, and benefit from an earlier and more bountiful harvest.

Propagators can also be used to transform spaces into useful growing areas, extending both the quantity and variety of plants you can grow. Finally, you can also use them for the overwintering of any exotic plants that simply wouldnt survive in your greenhouse.

Features to look out for

Electric propagators range hugely in terms of their size, functionality and features. Here are some of the features you should look out for:

• Output and efficiency “ consider how much warmth your propagator can provide, as exotic plants will need higher soil temperatures. You may also want to consider the power consumption if cost is a concern.
• A thermostat “ the best propagators come with a thermostat that maintains a consistent soil temperature.
• Air vents “ on sunny days, theres always the chance that your propagator might get too hot. Air vents will allow hot air and moisture to escape, protecting your young plants from overheating.
• Height “ propagators with a high top will be better if youre planning on using them for the overwintering of your tender plants.
• Capacity “ think about how many seedlings youll need to germinate at once.

Youll also want to consider the size and shape of your propagator. Think about where youre going to put it, and choose one that fits your space.

At Keen Gardener, youll find a wide range of different sizes, including those designed specifically to fit on windowsills.

Who are heated propagators best for?

Anyone who likes to grow plants from seed will benefit from an electric propagator. If youve got a greenhouse, cold frame or cloches youll find them even more valuable, and get more out of them.

This is because you can then transport your young plants from the propagator to your cover, ahead of planting outside. This will help you to harden off your plants a little, and protect them from late frost, ahead of planting out in spring.

How much are heated propagators?

Electric propagators range massively in price. Simple, smaller units are available for under £20, with larger, more advanced units costing £100 or more.

At Keen Gardener, youll find a wide selection, designed to cater for a full range of budgets and requirements.

Are there any alternatives?

Whilst many people make do with a sunny windowsill or airing cupboard for their germination, neither provides the same benefits as an electric propagator in terms of heat, consistency environment.

However, if youve got a greenhouse, you can create similar conditions provided by a propagator on a larger scale, by using heat mats and cables.

How Keen Gardener can help

At Keen Gardener, youll find a wide selection of high quality electric heated propagators and accessories, all at unbeatable prices.