Description
50-cell octagonal, deep (4.5″) plug trays are specialized propagation tools, often used in professional nursery settings (such as T.O. Plastics Star Trays) to produce robust, high-quality transplants.
These trays offer significant benefits for long-duration crops like tomatoes, peppers, cucurbits, and perennials, allowing them to remain in the tray longer without becoming root-bound.
Key benefits include:
- Deep 4.5″ Cells & Large Volume: The 4.5-inch depth provides roughly double the root volume compared to standard shallow trays, accommodating 142 cc to 142 cc (approx 4.8 oz) of medium. This enables stronger root development and allows plants to stay in the tray until they are ready to be planted directly into the landscape, skipping intermediate potting up.
- Octagonal/Star Cell Design & Ribs: The octagonal or “star” shape, combined with vertical “root ribs” on the cell walls, directs roots downward and outward. This prevents roots from circling, which causes root-bound plants, and encourages a straight, healthy root system.
- Superior Air Management & Drainage: These trays often feature “vented” designs—spaces between cells—that allow for better air circulation, reducing the risk of disease. They also have large, centered drainage holes to prevent overwatering.
- Easier Transplanting & Reduced Shock: The tapered octagonal shape and deep, sturdy construction make it easier to “pop” plugs out, reducing transplant shock.
- Durable for Reuse: Frequently made from thick, injection-molded plastic, these trays are robust and can be washed and reused for multiple seasons.
- Ideal for Automated Seeding: Designed in a standard 5 x 10 configuration (50 cells), these trays fit 10″ x 20″ footprints and are tailored for automatic filling and seeding machinery, making them suitable for professional operations.
Recommended Use:
They are ideal for crops that require a deeper root system, including tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, cucurbits (squash, zucchini, cucumbers), and nursery stock like perennials.
They are ideal for crops that require a deeper root system, including tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, cucurbits (squash, zucchini, cucumbers), and nursery stock like perennials.
