Seedling trays are one of the most important smart or greenhouse farming items in Kenya. Using seedling trays for propagation helps in raising healthy, uniform seedlings with less space, efficiency and short time.
This article covers everything about seedling trays in Kenya including their benefits, prices, and importance in modern farming.
Germination Trays in Kenya
Seedling trays, also called nursery trays, are plastic containers with multiple cells used for raising seedlings. They are widely used for vegetables, fruits, flowers, and even forestry seedlings. In Kenya, they are essential for farmers who want to improve germination rates and reduce losses.
Why Seedling Trays are Important
Kenyan farmers are shifting from traditional soil seedbeds to seedling trays for several reasons:
- High germination rate – Seedling trays provide a controlled environment, ensuring up to 95 –100% germination.
- Healthy seedlings – Each seed grows in its own cell, reducing competition for nutrients and water.
- Space saving – A single tray can hold between 28 and 288 seedlings, making it ideal for small farms and greenhouses.
- Easy transplanting – Seedlings develop strong root balls, making it easier to transplant without damaging roots.
- Pest and disease control – When used with clean planting media like coco peat or peat moss, trays reduce soil-borne diseases.
How to Use Seedling Trays
Using seedling trays is simple:
- Fill the cells with a planting medium such as coco peat, peat moss, or sterilized soil.
- Plant seeds in each cell at the recommended depth.
- Water gently to keep the medium moist but not waterlogged.
- Place trays in a greenhouse, shade net, or open field depending on the crop.
- Transplant seedlings once they are strong enough, usually after 2 – 4 weeks.
This method ensures uniform growth and reduces transplant shock.
Types and Sizes of Seedling Trays in Kenya
Seedling trays come in different sizes depending on the number of cells. The most common ones are:
| Tray Type | Number of Cells | Best For |
| 28–50 cells | Large cells | Tree seedlings, fruits like avocado, mango |
| 72–128 cells | Medium cells | Tomatoes, peppers, cabbages, onions |
| 200–288 cells | Small cells | Herbs, flowers, small vegetables |
The fewer the cells, the larger each cell is, which means more space for root development.
Seedling Tray Prices in Kenya
The cost of seedling trays in Kenya is KES 150 per tray.
While the initial cost may seem high, trays are reusable for several seasons, making them cost-effective in the long run.
Crops Raised on Seedling Trays
Seedling trays are versatile and can be used for propagation of many crops, including:
- Vegetables: Tomatoes, onions, cabbages, kale, spinach, peppers
- Fruits: Watermelon, passion fruit, strawberries
- Herbs: Basil, coriander, parsley
- Flowers: Roses, carnations, marigolds
- Forestry seedlings: Eucalyptus, grevillea, pine
This wide range makes them suitable for both small-scale farmers and commercial agribusinesses.
Benefits of Using Seedling Trays in Kenya
- Uniform growth – All seedlings grow at the same rate, making transplanting easier.
- Reduced seed wastage – Each seed is planted in its own cell, so none are lost.
- Faster maturity – Healthy seedlings establish quickly in the field.
- Lower costs – Farmers save money on seeds, water, and pesticides.
- Higher yields – Strong seedlings lead to better harvests.
Seedling Trays Propagation Media
Seedling trays for propagation work best with soilless media such as:
- Coco peat – Made from coconut husks, excellent for water retention.
- Peat moss – Lightweight and disease-free.
- Vermiculite or perlite – Improves aeration and drainage.
These media are preferred because they are free from pests and diseases, unlike ordinary soil.
Seedling Trays vs Traditional Seedbeds
| Feature | Seedling Trays | Traditional Seedbeds |
| Germination rate | 95% | 60–70% |
| Pest & disease risk | Very low | High |
| Seed usage | Minimal | High wastage |
| Transplanting | Easy, no root damage | Roots often damaged |
| Cost | Higher upfront, reusable | Low upfront, higher long-term losses |
Where to Buy Seedling Trays for Propagation in Kenya
Aqua Hub LTD is the real deal for those in search of quality seedling trays for propagation. They deal with UV treated seedling trays of 50 to 288 cells.
Call 0790719020
Importance of Seedling Trays in Agriculture
Seedling trays are revolutionizing farming in Kenya. They provide higher germination rates, healthier seedlings, reduced seed wastage, and better yields. Though the initial cost may seem high, their reusability and efficiency make them one of the best investments a farmer can make.
As Kenya continues to embrace modern farming methods, seedling trays will play a key role in ensuring food security and profitability for farmers. Whether you are growing vegetables, fruits, flowers, or trees, seedling trays are the smart way to start your crops.
