heated propagator questions

[4Shoes]

Thanks VC.... picture is not on the box or in the "handy wee guide" .


what do grapes recommend?

I've got builders sand



I've go builders sand as a back stop.

Just found the answer.
Sharp sand recommended.
Also found a video with what looked like recycled cotton/cloths underlay (ok capillary matting) and water.

[DannyK]

If it's in direct sun be careful plants don't get cooked.
Mine reached 40C+, luckily got it cooled down before damage done.

[4Shoes]

If it's in direct sun be careful plants don't get cooked.
Mine reached 40C+, luckily got it cooled down before damage done.

Should be ok. Has a variable thermostat

[DannyK]

Should be ok. Has a variable thermostat

Only if the stat operates a cooling fan!!!!! It's solar gain that does the damage.

[4Shoes]

Only if the stat operates a cooling fan!!!!! It's solar gain that does the damage.

Not going to be an issue. Not sitting in a room with big windows.


Lets bring the subject back to the original question.

What is the best medium to use to conduct the heat?

Do you use sand to transfer the heat to the Pot and seed trays?

I was thinking that the capillary matting option (I mentioned) would make the propagator too damp and perhaps rot the seedlings.

[veggiechicken]

Mine came with capillary matting and that's what I use - sitting pots and trays directly upon it.
You have to be careful with watering and ventilation however you grow,

[DannyK]

Coarse/sharp sand best. I'd use an inch and sink pots into it.
Soft sand would do at a pinch but won't drain so well.

[4Shoes]

Mine came with capillary matting and that's what I use - sitting pots and trays directly upon it.
You have to be careful with watering and ventilation however you grow,

Thanks VC.

Just had the feeling something was missing. Do you use it damp or dripping wet?

Can see a trial coming on here. Matting will be easy to clean up at end of season, but I expect sand will be a better heat conductor once up to temperature

[veggiechicken]

Certainly not dripping wet.
I sow into damp compost and wait for germination. Then the seedlings need light so they come out of the prop. They don't usually need watering in the prop.

[4Shoes]

Coarse/sharp sand best. I'd use an inch and sink pots into it.
Soft sand would do at a pinch but won't drain so well.

Thanks see VC^.
Will get it setup tomorrow. Had similar thoughts, but with all these grapes with propagators thought best too ask question.

[4Shoes]

Certainly not dripping wet.
I sow into damp compost and wait for germination. Then the seedlings need light so they come out of the prop. They don't usually need watering in the prop.

Thanks - Was thinking about the conduction properties of the water. Anyway you've answered my question and I do have the cotton scrap based carpet underlay, so that is a back stop answer if I don't get into town tomorrow.