Noticing that i would have to drop a lot of dough for heat mats i decided to go with this plan instead.
Diy seed germination heat mat.
It has a thermostat to dial into the exact temperature we need and we can easily adjust it if needed.
Of particular interest is the temperature comparisons of the store bought heat mats and the diy plan.
The germination mat helps keep an even germination temperature between 65 80 f.
Whether you buy a seedling heat mat or put together a diy alternative i hope you ll consider adding extra heat to your seed starting shelf this winter.
The results will amaze you.
Providing a heat source under the seed tray urges the seeds to germinate in a hurry.
Diy heat mat seeds need three things to germinate.
Heat mats can really help speed up germination for many seeds especially tomatoes and peppers.
A well built bottom heating mat can help you a lot to keep your seeds and seedlings warm.
Commercial heat mat surface temperature thermometer placed on top of soil.
73 75 degrees f soil temperature.
Commercial heating mats and cables are made just for this purpose but christmas lights work equally well.
80 82 bottom temperature gap between heat mat and seed trays.
Soil water and warmth.
This is a convenient way to maintain a desirable temperature your plants need.
Diy light heat mat surface temperature.
To control heating times use a thermostat or timer.
Setting up light shelves.
When you are learning to grow from seeds often you might see reference to a heat mat for seedlings.
When starting seeds providing the right amount of heat is crucial yet difficult as the room you use is warm during the day but cool at night.
How to make a heat mat for seed starting.
For additional information on seed starting see my previous article seed starting 101.
This is a readers favorite post our how to site.
Once the vegetables are grown your heat mat can help you with home brewing and fermentation later on.
The temperature varies on what you are growing.