What Is a Cell Tray?
A cell tray, also known as a plug tray, is an agricultural tool consisting of multiple small pots connected, forming a tray-like structure.
Cell trays are particularly useful when seeds planted directly in the field do not germinate as expected or exhibit inconsistent germination.
Uses of Cell Trays
Cell trays are commonly used for growing vegetable and flower crops from the sowing stage until just before field planting. They are filled with soil, a seed is sown in each pot, covered with soil, and the crop is grown conventionally. This method simplifies the introduction of cell trays in agriculture.
Features of Cell Trays
Advantages
1. Space-saving cultivation: Cell trays allow for growing a large number of seedlings in a limited space, conserving soil and reducing costs.
2. Sorting by condition: Each isolated pot in a cell tray enables the selection of only well-growing seedlings for field transplanting, improving overall yield.
3. Less damage from pests and diseases: Fresh soil used in cell trays minimizes the effects of weeds and pests compared to open field sowing.
4. Lightweight and portable: Cell trays are easy to move, allowing seedlings to be relocated to suitable environments as needed, especially after germination.
Disadvantages
1. Prone to water and fertilizer depletion: The small amount of soil in each pot can lead to quick drying and nutrient depletion, requiring frequent checks, especially in plastic greenhouses where rainwater is absent.
2. Risk of root curling: The limited pot size can cause roots to curl inward, potentially hindering growth after transplanting to open fields.
3. Not suitable for certain crops: Crops that grow large, have bulky twin leaves, or are root vegetables may not thrive in the confined space of cell trays.
Types of Cell Trays
Cell trays come in various types, differentiated by the number and size of the holes. A common dimension for cell trays is 28 cm x 54.5 cm (outer dimension). However, they are not highly durable, especially when filled with moist soil. Therefore, managing them in rice seedling trays, typically sized 28 cm x 58 cm (internal dimensions), is recommended for better handling and storage.
How to Select Cell Trays
When choosing cell trays, it’s essential to consider the anticipated size of the crop to avoid overcrowding and stunted growth. Selecting the appropriate hole capacity is crucial for the healthy development of the plants.