Best Plant Germination Trays of 2026

Steven Taylor Avatar
Steven Taylor
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2026

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Plant germination trays are an excellent way to start your garden indoors. These trays are designed to provide the perfect environment for seedlings to grow and thrive before they are transplanted outside. They come in a variety of sizes and materials, including plastic and biodegradable options. The trays are typically equipped with drainage holes to prevent overwatering and promote healthy root growth. Additionally, some models feature clear lids to create a mini greenhouse effect that helps trap heat and moisture. With plant germination trays, gardeners can get a head start on their growing season and ensure a successful harvest.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Gardzen 5-Set Garden Propagator Kit Cover #TOP 1
Gardzen 5-Set Garden Propagator Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Burpee SuperSeed 16 XL Cell Tray Cover #TOP 2
Burpee SuperSeed 16 XL Cell Tray
ftb score rating icon 9.7
10 Plant Growing Trays (No Drain Holes) Cover #TOP 3
10 Plant Growing Trays (No Drain Holes)
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Plant Germination Trays

#TOP 1

Gardzen 5-Set Garden Propagator Kit

GST01-5
Clear
40-Cell 5-Pack
Gardzen 5-Set Garden Propagator Kit Cover
Gardzen 5-Set Seed Starter Tray Kits, Durable Plant Germination Trays with Humidity Vented Domes and Bases, Ideal for Seed Starting, Indoor Gardening, and Greenhouse (Total 200 Cells)

The Gardzen 5-Set Garden Propagator Set comes with 5 seed trays with 40 drainage holes each, 5 base trays for excess water, and 5 transparent domes for maintaining humidity and warmth. The seed tray has a bottom drain hole to prevent overwatering and the base tray can be filled with water to distribute moisture to the roots. The transparent dome allows for easy monitoring of seedling growth. This kit is perfect for creating different climate conditions for optimal root growth and absorption of water and nutrients.

What We Like
Sturdy trays and lids
Adjustable vented domes
Easy to clean and store
Includes planting tools
Efficient moisture control
What We Don't Like
Lids may fall off easily
Trays not fully transparent
#TOP 2

Burpee SuperSeed 16 XL Cell Tray

93412
Green
16 XL Cells
Burpee SuperSeed 16 XL Cell Tray Cover
Burpee SuperSeed Seed Starting Tray | 16 XL Cell | Reusable & Dishwasher Safe | for Starting Vegetable Seeds, Flower Seeds & Herb Seeds | Indoor Grow Kit for Deep-Rooted Seedlings, Green

The Burpee SuperSeed Tray makes starting your seeds indoors easy and organized. With 16 extra-large flexible cells, you can plant your vegetable, flower, or herb seeds comfortably and keep track of them using the labeled rows and included Plant-o-Gram diagram. The tray features a smart watering system that ensures proper drainage and soil aeration, helping your seeds germinate successfully while preventing spills with its raised edge and deep water channels. When it’s time to move your seedlings outdoors, the soft silicone cells gently pop out, reducing root damage and transplant shock. Plus, the tray is reusable and dishwasher safe, making cleanup simple for your next planting season.

What We Like
Sturdy and reusable design
Easy transplant and plant removal
Efficient drainage and moisture control
Fits small spaces and windowsills
Supports healthy root growth
What We Don't Like
Plastic lid less sturdy
Occasional cracked trays on arrival
#TOP 3

10 Plant Growing Trays (No Drain Holes)

1MG-T10
Black
No drain holes
10 Plant Growing Trays (No Drain Holes) Cover
10 Plant Growing Trays (No Drain Holes) - 20" x 10" - Perfect Garden Seed Starter Grow Trays: for Seedlings, Indoor Gardening, Growing Microgreens, Wheatgrass & More - Soil or Hydroponic

This set of 10 durable plastic plant growing trays are perfect for seed starting, indoor gardening, growing microgreens, wheatgrass and more. These trays come without drain holes, making them ideal for use as drip trays or hydroponic growing. Measuring approximately 21" by 11" on top and 20" by 10" on the bottom, they fit 20" x 10" Sure to Grow Hydroponic Grow Pads and Micro-Mats perfectly. These trays are reusable and great for greenhouse, seedlings, wheatgrass, microgreens and more.

What We Like
Sturdy and well-made
Large capacity
Fits standard pot sizes
Lightweight and easy to clean
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Occasional quality inconsistency
Some trays thinner than expected
#TOP 4

Gardzen 30-Pack 6-Cell Seed Starting Trays

GST06-30
Black
30 Pcs
Gardzen 30-Pack 6-Cell Seed Starting Trays Cover
Gardzen 30 Pack 6-Cell Seed Starting Tray for Seedlings, Plant Starter Trays with Drainage Holes for Seed Germination, 5.4x3.7 inches, Black

The Gardzen Seed Starting Trays offer durable, high-quality plastic construction that stands up to regular use, making them a reliable choice for gardeners. Each tray cell provides enough room for your seedlings’ roots to grow strong, supporting healthy plant development. The thoughtful design includes drainage holes to prevent overwatering and guide channels that help water reach every seed, ensuring optimal moisture levels. Plus, these trays are reusable and eco-friendly—just clean them after each use, saving you money and reducing waste for a more sustainable gardening experience. The Gardzen Seed Starting Trays make it easy to start your seeds successfully.

What We Like
Sturdy and reusable
Good price and value
Visible root growth
Works with capillary mats
Deeper than standard trays
What We Don't Like
May melt in direct sunlight
Smaller cell size than expected
#TOP 5

Seed Starter Trays by The Hydroponic City

SG_B06ZY648GC_US
Black
Seed Starter Trays by The Hydroponic City Cover
Seed Starter Trays, 144 Cells (24 Trays - 6 Cells Per Tray) + Plant Stakes

The Hydroponic City Seed Trays are designed to help you grow healthy plants from the start. Each cell, measuring 1.5 inches square and 2.25 inches deep, encourages strong root growth, giving your seedlings the best chance at thriving. Made from durable materials, these trays can be reused, making them a sustainable choice for gardening. They are suitable for a variety of seeds, whether flowers, herbs, or vegetables, adding versatility to your planting. With smart drainage slits, these trays prevent overwatering and maintain optimal moisture levels for your seeds to germinate and grow effectively.

What We Like
Good value for price
Perfect for seed starting
Sturdy enough for seedlings
Convenient plant tags included
Adequate depth for most seeds
What We Don't Like
Somewhat flimsy material
Not deep enough for some plants
#TOP 6

Adawook 72-Cell Seed Starter Kit with Lights and Heat Mat

R2-NH6Q-3SDU
Green
6PCS
Adawook 72-Cell Seed Starter Kit with Lights and Heat Mat Cover
Seed Starter Trays with Grow Lights and Heat Mat, 72 Cells Seed Starter Kit with Lights, 3 Lighting Mode, 4 Timing Set, Germination Kit for Seed Starting Trays with High Humidity Control Domes

The Adawook Seed Starter Kit is perfect for anyone looking to grow healthy seedlings indoors. It comes with a heat mat that gently warms your seeds, speeding up germination without overheating. The kit includes 72-cell trays made from durable plastic, designed with drainage holes to keep your seedlings from sitting in excess water, which helps prevent root rot. You also get six grow lights with three lighting modes—white, blue, and red—that support different growth stages. Blue light helps control seedling height, while red light encourages strong stems and flowering. This kit provides everything you need to start herbs, vegetables, and flowers successfully.

What We Like
Good quality materials
Effective germination and growth
Easy to use setup
Helpful heat mat
Large tray capacity
What We Don't Like
Missing grow light in package
Small size for some users
#TOP 7

RooTrimmer 40-Pack Clear 4-Cell Seed Starter Trays

Clear
4 Cells-40P
RooTrimmer 40-Pack Clear 4-Cell Seed Starter Trays Cover
RooTrimmer 40 Pack Reusable 4-Cell Seed Starter Trays with Large Drainage Holes - Clear Transparent Trays for Root Growth Monitoring, Avoids Overwatering, Easy Transplant, Fits Standard 1020 Trays

The RooTrimmer Clear Seed Trays offer a durable design made from BPA-free plastic, allowing you to reuse them season after season without worry. These trays fit perfectly into standard 1020 flat trays, helping you organize your seedlings efficiently. Their transparent structure makes it simple to monitor your seeds' progress, so you can easily decide when to water, fertilize, or transplant. Plus, the large drainage holes and special air pruning slots prevent overwatering and encourage strong root growth, ensuring your seedlings develop healthy roots and are ready for transplanting with ease.

What We Like
Sturdy and durable trays
Large drainage holes
Clear design for root viewing
Reusable and long-lasting
Fits standard 1020 flats
What We Don't Like
Tightly stacked packaging
Drains not snapping in
#TOP 8

MIXC Seedling Trays 5-Pack Grow Kit

Green
40-Cell 5-Pack
MIXC Seedling Trays 5-Pack Grow Kit Cover
MIXC Seedling Trays Seed Starter Tray, 5-Pack Mini Propagator Plant Greenhouse Grow Kit with Humidity Vented Domes and Base for Seeds' Starting (40 Cells Per Tray, Total 200 Cells), Green

The MIXC Seedling Grow Kit offers a practical solution for starting your seeds with ease. Its clear plastic trays let you watch your seedlings grow without disturbing them, helping you monitor progress carefully. The adjustable vents on the domes give you control over humidity and temperature, creating the perfect environment for your plants to thrive. Plus, the trays stack neatly, saving you space whether you’re growing indoors or outdoors. This kit is designed to make seed starting simple and efficient, giving you a convenient way to nurture your plants from the very beginning.

What We Like
Adjustable humidity vents
Sturdy and reusable trays
Clear domes for easy viewing
Effective drainage system
Includes useful tools and labels
What We Don't Like
Cell size a bit small
Some trays slightly flimsy

Masontops Bean Screen Mason Jar Sprouting Kit

BS2WGB
Blue/Green
Masontops Bean Screen Mason Jar Sprouting Kit Cover
Masontops Bean Screen Plastic Mason Jar Sprouting Lids Mason Jar Sprouting Kit – For Growing Broccoli Seeds, Alfalfa, Mung Bean Sprouts – Wide Mouth Seed Sprouting Jar Lids Sprouting Kit Mason Jar

The Masontops Bean Screen Kit is designed to help you easily grow a variety of nutritious sprouts right in your kitchen. It fits all wide-mouth mason jars, creating ideal conditions for sprouting seeds like broccoli, alfalfa, and mung beans. The kit features special pegs that let your jar stand upright for thorough drainage, which helps prevent spoilage and keeps your sprouts fresh. Its unique design also stabilizes the jar, preventing it from rolling around while your sprouts grow. Rinsing your sprouts is simple thanks to the inverted spout, allowing water to flow easily without removing the screen at any stage. This makes growing fresh, healthy sprouts hassle-free for you.

What We Like
Easy rinsing and draining
No rust or buildup
High quality, sturdy material
Fits wide mouth mason jars
Keeps seeds from escaping
What We Don't Like
Plastic instead of full silicone
Higher price than some alternatives
#TOP 10

Bonviee Seed Starter Tray Kit

Black
5 Packs-Black
Bonviee Seed Starter Tray Kit Cover
Bonviee 5-Pack Seed Starter Tray Seedling Kits,Plant Starter Kit with Adjustable Humidity Dome and Base Indoor Greenhouse Mini Propagator for Seeds Growing Starting (12 Cells per Tray,Black)

The Bonviee Seed Starter Kit is designed to make your plant-growing experience easier and more efficient. With clear plastic trays, you can easily monitor your plants without disrupting their roots. The adjustable vents allow you to control both temperature and humidity, ensuring optimal conditions for seed germination. Each cell is spacious enough for larger seeds like tomatoes and peppers, providing plenty of room for growth. Plus, these trays are heat mat compatible, so you can use them in various temperatures without worrying about damage. This kit is perfect for anyone looking to start their gardening journey.

What We Like
Sturdy and reusable design
Clear trays for monitoring growth
Good humidity and drainage control
Space-saving small size
Easy to use and clean
What We Don't Like
Lids may need taping
Slight plastic smell at first
Buying Guide Image

A Guide to Choosing the Right Plant Germination Trays

Introduction

Choosing the right plant germination tray can be a daunting task for the uninitiated. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this article, we will provide a brief overview of the different types of plant germination trays available and offer some helpful tips for choosing the right one for your needs.

Types of Plant Germination Trays

There are several different types of plant germination trays on the market, each with its own unique features and benefits. Some of the most common types include:

  • Plastic trays: These are the most affordable and widely available option. They are lightweight, easy to clean, and come in a variety of sizes. However, they are not as durable as other options and may not be suitable for long-term use.

  • Biodegradable trays: These trays are made from materials that are designed to break down over time, making them a more environmentally-friendly option. They are generally more expensive than plastic trays and may not be as widely available.

  • Fabric trays: These trays are made from a breathable fabric that allows for proper drainage and aeration. They are generally more expensive than plastic trays, but they are also more durable and can be used for multiple growing seasons.

  • Metal trays: These trays are made from sturdy materials such as aluminum or stainless steel. They are the most durable option, but they are also the most expensive and may not be suitable for all types of plants.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Plant Germination Tray

When choosing a plant germination tray, there are several factors that you should consider to ensure that you select the right one for your needs. These include:

  • Size: The size of the tray will depend on the type and number of plants that you are planning to grow. Be sure to choose a tray that is large enough to accommodate your plants, but not so large that it is difficult to manage.

  • Drainage: Proper drainage is essential for healthy plant growth. Be sure to choose a tray that has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging and root rot.

  • Material: The material of the tray will determine its durability and longevity. Plastic trays are the most affordable and widely available option, but they may not be as durable as other materials. Biodegradable trays are a more environmentally-friendly option, but they may not be as widely available or as durable as other materials. Fabric trays are more durable and can be used for multiple growing seasons, but they are also more expensive. Metal trays are the most durable option, but they are also the most expensive.

  • Reusability: If you are looking to save money and reduce waste, you may want to choose a tray that can be used for multiple growing seasons. Fabric and metal trays are generally more durable and can be used for multiple seasons, while plastic and biodegradable trays may need to be replaced more frequently.

Conclusion

Choosing the right plant germination tray can be a challenging task, but it is essential for successful plant growth. By considering factors such as size, drainage, material, and reusability, you can select the perfect tray for your needs. With the right tray, you can ensure that your plants have the best possible start in life and can thrive for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which seed trays are best?

Top 7 Best Seedling Starter Trays. #1 9GreenBox 144 Cell Seedling Starter Trays.#2 MIXC Humidity Adjustable Seedling Starter Trays.#3 Industry Standard Grower's Supply Seedling Starter Trays.#4 AAAmercantile Seed Starter Trays.#5 AngtuoSeed Starter Peat Pots Seedling Starter Trays.

2. Are seedling trays necessary?

Growing seeds in paper pots, modules or seedling trays allows you to control the environment in which they grow. Providing protection from the elements and garden pests while also controlling soil, moisture, fertility and heat. This is particularly important if you'd like to get a jump start on your growing season.

3. How long should seedlings stay in trays?

Seedlings otherwise can become root-bound if not given adequate space for the roots. Typically, after sowing the seeds, the cell trays are used for around 3-4 weeks before transplanting occurs - whether it be to an outdoor plot or into a larger container.

Editor's Notes

During our plant germination tray research, we found 24 plant germination tray products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 165,008 customer reviews through our big data system to write the plant germination trays list. We found that most customers choose plant germination trays with an average price of $20.07.

The plant germination trays are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of plant germination trays, including Gardzen, Burpee, Living Whole Foods, The Hydroponic City, Adawook. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 689 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Steven Taylor Avatar

Steven Taylor grew up in a small town called Beaufort in South Carolina and his passion for building and woodworking has led him to master the latest garden gadgets. He always holds every chance to patch up or sand down his beloved garden. There are various novel technologies in his articles.

Plant Germination Trays Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Gardzen Burpee Living Whole Foods Gardzen The Hydroponic City Adawook RooTrimmer MIXC Masontops Bonviee
Material Plastic Silicone Plastic Plastic Plastic Plastic Plastic Plastic Plastic Plastic
Color Clear Green Black Black Black Green Clear Green Blue/Green Black
Special Feature Drainage Hole Dishwasher Safe, Drainage Hole, Reusable Lightweight Drainage Hole Drainage Hole Drainage Hole, Lightweight, Portable Drainage Hole Lightweight Drainage Hole Drainage Hole
Style Garden Starter Tray Modern Garden Modern seed starter tray with grow light and heat mat Garden Modern Modern Garden
Planter Form Tray Tray Tray Tray Tray Tray Tray Tray Plant Pot Tray
Shape Rectangular Square Rectangular Rectangular Square Square Rectangular Rectangular Round Square
Indoor/Outdoor Usage Outdoor Indoor Indoor Indoor Outdoor Indoor Indoor Indoor, Outdoor Indoor Indoor
Number of Pieces 5 1 10 30 24 1 40 5 2 5
Item Weight 1 Pounds 0.84 Pounds 0.01 Ounces 9.1 ounces 1 Pounds 2.42 Pounds 1 pounds 1187 Grams 2.9 Ounces 11.9 Ounces
Size 40-Cell 5-Pack 16 XL Cells No drain holes 30 Pcs 24 Trays (144 Cells) 6PCS 4 Cells-40P 40-Cell 5-Pack Bean Screens Kit (2 Screens) 5 Packs-Black
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
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