Propagation Medium

Propagation medium for seeds and cuttings

Young roots need a softer start than a full-size pot of soil or a hydro system can give them, which is what a dedicated propagation medium is for: smaller, more consistent, and forgiving of the odd missed watering while roots establish. Root Riot Organic Propagation Cubes (from £6.95) are pre-formed and pH-neutral out of the bag, a straightforward choice for growers who do not want to soak rockwool first. Jiffy Propagation Plugs (from £0.10) are the budget option for growing large batches of seedlings from seed.

Choosing between cube types

Grodan rockwool cubes need a pH soak before use but give the most consistent results once rooted; Root Riot and Eazy Plug cubes (from £11.95) skip that step and are ready to use straight away, which suits growers who want one less thing to get wrong on a first grow. Plug Life Peatmix trays (£14.95) suit growers propagating in bulk from seed rather than cuttings. Whichever you choose, keep humidity high over the first week; a clear propagator lid does more for strike rate than the medium itself.

Once cuttings root, they move on into coco, soil or hydroponic medium, depending on how you are running the rest of the grow. Free UK delivery over £50. Call 020 3488 0419 for advice on which cube suits your propagator.