Mastering Herbs & Flowers with 5×5 Seed Starting Trays

5x5 Seed Starting Trays from Bootstrap Farmer

5x5 Seed Starting Trays from Bootstrap Farmer are versatile for use not just for our core microgreen crops, but a wide variety of flowers and herbs.

The humble 5x5 Seed Starting Trays might seem small, but in the world of seed starting, it's a giant leap towards a thriving herb and flower haven! This handy Aussie gardener's secret weapon, as championed by Bootstrap Farmer, packs a punch when it comes to nurturing delicate seedlings, especially those from tiny, dust-like seeds. But how do you harness the magic of these trays for your own backyard bounty? Let's dive in!

The 5x5 trays are ideal for a range of small-seeded plants including both herbs and flowers. These trays, measuring approximately 12.7 cm x 12.7 cm (5 inches x 5 inches), offer a compact yet effective way to nurture seedlings until they're ready for transplanting.

Why 5x5 Trays Rock for Herbs & Flowers:

• Space Saviours: Perfect for balconies and windowsills, these compact trays maximise your limited space, allowing you to start a mini-nursery even in the tiniest of nooks.
• Tiny Seed Tamers: Fiddly little seeds like basil, thyme, pansies, and snapdragons find their ideal home in the individual cells, preventing overcrowding and accidental scattering.
• Moisture Masters: Controlled watering is key, and 5x5 trays, combining with and without drainage hole trays, let you bottom water efficiently, keeping the soil evenly moist without drowning your precious seedlings.
• Transplant Teamwork: Individual cells make transplanting a breeze, minimising root disturbance and stress for your delicate sprouts.

Top Flower Seeds for 5x5 Seed Starting Trays:

1. Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus): Cheerful, low-maintenance blooms in vibrant hues – perfect for beginners!
2. Zinnia (Zinnia elegans): A kaleidoscope of colours, attracting pollinators and adding pizzazz to borders.
3. Sunflower (Helianthus annuus): Towering giants that delight kids and provide edible seeds – bonus!
4. Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus): Peppery blooms and leaves add spice to salads, while attracting beneficial insects.
5. Bachelor Buttons (Centaurea cyanus): Classic blue charmers for bouquets and borders, easy to grow from seed.
6. Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Cheerful orange and yellow blooms with healing properties.
7. Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus): Quirky, dragon-like flowers come in a delightful range of colours.
8. Pansies (Viola tricolor): Long-blooming beauties for cool weather, perfect for pots and window boxes.
9. Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritima): Fragrant, cascading blooms in white and purple, ideal for edging and containers.
10. Borage (Borago officinalis): Star-shaped blue flowers and edible leaves add a unique touch to salads and cocktails.
11. Marigolds – Noted for their uniquely shaped seeds and vibrant colors.
12. Violas – Perfect for small trays due to their compact growth habit.
13. Petunias – Popular for their varied and vibrant hues.
14. Pansies – Ideal for cooler weather and add color to any garden.
15. Lavender – A fragrant choice, perfect for both aesthetic and culinary uses.
16. Chamomile – Known for its soothing properties, both in gardens and teas.

Top 10 Herb Seeds for 5x5 Seed Starting Trays:

1. Basil (Ocimum basilicum): The king of herb gardens, with countless varieties to suit every taste.
2. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum): A kitchen staple, adding freshness to dishes and brightening up borders.
3. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris): Versatile and fragrant, perfect for roasting, stews, and herbal teas.
4. Oregano (Origanum vulgare): The soul of pizza and pasta, thrives in sunny spots.
5. Mint (Mentha spp.): Refreshing and invigorating, ideal for teas, mojitos, and adding zing to salads.
6. Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum): Lemony and bright, essential for Mexican and Asian cuisine.
7. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum): Onion-flavoured delights for dips, soups, and potato salads.
8. Dill (Anethum graveolens): Perfect partner for fish and pickles, with feathery foliage and yellow blooms.
9. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Woody and aromatic, elevates roasts, stews, and focaccia.
10. Sage (Salvia officinalis): Earthy and slightly peppery, ideal for poultry, stuffing, and herbal teas.

5X5 Seed Starting Trays

5x5 Seed Starting Trays Tips & Tricks:

• Fill 'em right: Use a lightweight, well-draining seed starting mix for optimal germination.
• Seed spacing: Sow sparingly! Aim for 2-3 seeds per cell for tiny seeds, and one seed per cell for larger ones.
• Light it up: Place your trays under grow lights or a sunny window for at least 6 hours daily.
• Moisture matters: Bottom watering is key! Fill a shallow tray without holes, place your 5x5 tray on top, and pour water into the bottom tray to gently moisten the soil from below.
• Dome sweet dome: Use a humidity dome to trap moisture and create mini-greenhouses for
• Temperature: Maintain a consistent temperature suitable for the seeds you are growing, generally around 18°C to 24°C (65°F to 75°F).

Conclusion

Using 5x5 trays for starting flowers and herbs is an efficient, space-saving method that can yield a bountiful and diverse garden. Whether you are an experienced gardener or just starting, these trays provide an excellent foundation for a thriving garden. Remember, the key to success lies in choosing the right seeds, providing proper care, and understanding the nuances of planting in a confined space. Happy gardening!