What Is a Seedling Box?
A seedling box is a shallow container used for growing seedlings. Typically made of plastic, these boxes are filled with soil and seeds and kept in controlled environments, such as plastic greenhouses, to foster seedling growth.
Uses of Seedling Boxes
Seedling boxes are essential in agriculture and home gardens for growing rice and vegetable seedlings, with machines evenly sowing the seeds into boxes filled with soil and fertilizer. They are indispensable for large-scale farming.
Features of Seedling Boxes
Pros
Ease of Management: Portable and weather-resistant, they simplify seedling care and eliminate the need for weeding.
Early Harvest: Provide optimal growing conditions for seedlings.
Efficient Cultivation: Allow farmers to manage other field tasks while seedlings grow in the boxes.
Reduced Climate and Pest Damage: Protect seedlings from environmental factors and pests.
Cons
Variable Growth: Limited space can lead to competition among seedlings, affecting their growth.
Cleaning Requirement: Require washing after use.
Storage Needs: Demand storage space away from direct sunlight.
Types of Seedling Boxes
Medium-Sized Seedling Boxes: Feature about 1,300 holes for excellent air permeability and a flat bottom to prevent disease.
Crystal and Diamond Cut: Designed for young seedlings with an uneven bottom for water retention.
Boxes for Young Seedlings: Ideal for early-stage seedlings but not recommended for vegetables due to poor drainage.
How to Choose Seedling Boxes
Select boxes based on the seedling type. For young seedlings, choose boxes with fewer or smaller holes. For medium or mature seedlings, opt for boxes with fewer holes or crystal cuts. Vegetable seedlings require flat types with good drainage.
How to Use Seedling Boxes
For Paddy Rice
Fill boxes with soil and fertilizer. Moisten the soil before sowing. Sow and cover the seeds with soil.
For Vegetables
Use a sheet beneath the box if it has large holes. Create a shallow trench for seeds and cover them with soil. Store water in a tray for watering.