Best Starting Plant Germination Trays of 2026

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

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Starting plant germination trays are a great way to kick-start your gardening season. These trays provide the perfect environment for seeds to sprout and grow into healthy plants. They are typically made of durable plastic and feature individual cells that can be filled with soil and seeds. Some trays even come with clear plastic domes to create a mini greenhouse effect for optimal growing conditions. With a starting plant germination tray, gardeners can start their plants indoors before transferring them outside once the weather warms up. These trays are a must-have for any serious gardener looking to get a head start on their growing season.

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 9.9
Burpee SuperSeed 16 XL Cell Tray Cover #TOP 2
Burpee SuperSeed 16 XL Cell Tray
ftb score rating icon 9.8
10 Plant Growing Trays (No Drain Holes) Cover #TOP 3
10 Plant Growing Trays (No Drain Holes)
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Starting 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
#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
#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
#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
#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
#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
#TOP 7

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
#TOP 8

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
#TOP 9

MIXC 10 Packs Seed Starter Tray Kit

Green
12 Cell
MIXC 10 Packs Seed Starter Tray Kit Cover
MIXC 10 Packs Seed Starter Tray Seed Starter Kit with Humidity Dome (120 Cells Total Tray) Seed Starting Trays Plant Starter Kit and Base Mini Greenhouse Germination Kit for Seeds Growing Starting

The MIXC Seed Starter Tray Kit includes 10 clear plastic trays with adjustable vents for total control over temperature and humidity, making it easy to observe your plants without interrupting the growing process. With a cell size of 1.5" x 1.5", these trays are perfect for small seeds, such as flowers, vegetables, fruits, and tobacco. The drain hole at the bottom of each cell ensures proper drainage, making it reusable and efficient. The kit also comes with watertight base trays, humidity domes, and plant labels.

What We Like
Durable and sturdy design
Clear for monitoring growth
Humidity dome for optimal conditions
Easy to clean and reuse
Compact and space-saving
#TOP 10

Mr. Pen Plastic Growing Trays, 5 Pack

Black
5 Pack
Mr. Pen Plastic Growing Trays, 5 Pack Cover
Mr. Pen- Plastic Growing Trays, 5Pack, Black, 17x10, Plant Tray, Seed Tray, Seedling Tray, Propagation Tray, Plant Trays for Seedlings, Planting Trays, Microgreens Growing Trays, Seedling Starter Tray

Mr. Pen Plastic Growing Trays come in a pack of 5 and are made of sturdy plastic which can be used repeatedly. The trays are designed to keep soil, fertilizer, and water contained inside. They are lightweight, easy to clean, and will work with all types of heat mats, humidity domes, and hydroponics systems. These trays are perfect for growing sprouts, microgreens, and any type of plant indoors or out. The raised edges keep your work area neat and tidy.

What We Like
Good quality plastic material
Perfect size for seedlings
Stackable for storage
Easy to reuse
Vibrant color options
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long should seedlings stay in starter 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.

2. How long can plants stay in starter trays?

Most seedlings can stay in cell trays for at least 4 weeks. The larger the cell volume, the longer a plant can grow before it becomes root-bound. Plants grown in a 200 cell tray will typically need to be potted up or transplanted outside once they have a full set of true leaves.

Editor's Notes

During our starting plant germination tray research, we found 24 starting plant germination tray products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 187,797 customer reviews through our big data system to write the starting plant germination trays list. We found that most customers choose starting plant germination trays with an average price of $26.27.

The starting plant germination trays are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of starting 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.