Heated propagators, heat mats and seed trays
Tomatoes, chillies and aubergines need warmth to germinate, and an unheated greenhouse in February and March is too cold for them. A heated propagator or a heat mat warms the compost from below. Once the seedlings are up and the nights get milder, they move to the greenhouse or a cold frame.
Garland Super7 heated propagator
Classic windowsill propagator with seven small trays
£47 at Amazon · 4.6 stars (1,860)
EarlyGrow heated medium propagator
Shatter-resistant lid and a heated base
£35 at Amazon · 4.5 stars (382)
WADEO heat mat 60 x 42 cm with thermostat
Warms several seed trays at once, adjustable from 5 to 45°C
£33 at Amazon · 4.5 stars (408)
MIXC seed trays with lids, 10 pack
Cheap cell trays for a big sowing session
£16 at Amazon · 4.5 stars (9,647)
Prices and ratings from Amazon.co.uk when we checked. Affiliate links. We have not tested these ourselves.
What to look for
- Chillies and peppers need the longest season, so sow them first, often in February.
- Take the lid off as soon as the seedlings appear, or they grow weak and catch damping off.
- A heat mat with a thermostat lets you set the temperature instead of guessing.
- Seedlings on a windowsill lean towards the light. Turn the tray every day.