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The Best Seedling Heating Mat

Last updated on June 1, 2023
Best Seedling Heating Mat

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Seed and seedling flats are often placed in windowsills, but they can get to be too hot or too cold. Both seeds and seedlings require consistently warm temperatures to thrive.

Seedling heat mats slowly increase the temperature of seed-starting mediums. This kind of gentle warmth mimics warm springtime outdoor soil temperatures. Although experts disagree about the exact sweet spot temperature, it generally ranges from 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s about 10 to 20 above the average temperature in most homes.

In essence, seedling mats are electric heating pads made from PVC or plastic that are placed under seedling trays.  They are regulated by thermostats. These mats are made from waterproof materials and contain heating coils inside.

All you need to do is place your trays on top of the mat and plug it in. However, you should check on the temperature from time to time. Heat mats are not required for seeds and seedlings to grow, but the added heat can speed up germination!

Look for seedling heating mats that measure around 10 by 20 inches. If you have more trays, you can easily find larger mats. If you are starting from seeds, make sure to read the back of your seed packets to see what their optimum growing temperatures are.

You can remove the trays right after they sprout, keeping in mind that even if only some sprout, the others will follow suit soon after. The tray can be removed as soon as the first few seedlings start poking out, as the others have also had the benefits of the additional warmth.

Our Picks For The Top Seedling Heating Mats

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

VIVOSUN Waterproof Uniform Seedling Heating Mat

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VIVOSUN

Waterproof Uniform Seedling Heating Mat

This innovative, professional heating mat keeps the optimum temperature for seedlings so they grow as well as possible. This mat uses radiant, far-infrared light waves and is made from water-resistant material.

Overall Take

Keep Those Plants ToastyYou can rest assured that your seeds and roots will never get burned or damaged when you keep them atop this seedling heating mat.

 Runner Up

Seedfactor Partial Sun Seedling Germination Heating Pad

Seedfactor

Partial Sun Seedling Germination Heating Pad

This set of two seedling heating mats can be used to safely encourage growth of your seeds and seedlings. It offers thick, multi-layer construction, a strong heating wire and uniform heating.

Overall Take

Safe and EffectiveThese mats are strong enough for greenhouses and are ideal for use in your home.

 Strong Contender

BN-LINK Water-Resistant Seedling Heating Mat

Water-Resistant Seedling Heating Mat

This warmth pad keeps up to 1,020 seeds and seedling trays at just the right temperature. This heating pad is durable and made from water-resistant material that stays flexible with use.

Overall Take

Cozy Plant BabiesYou will be a step ahead with your seed starting and cutting propagation when you choose this durable, 10-by-20.75-inch seedling heating mat.

 Strong Contender

VIVOSUN Waterproof Hydroponic Seedling Heating Pad, 2-Pack

VIVOSUN

Waterproof Hydroponic Seedling Heating Pad, 2-Pack

This professional-grade pack of two heating mats have strengthened heating films, boast water resistance and run on 18 watts. Each heating mat measures 10 by 20.75 inches, so they can easily accommodate your plants.

Overall Take

Built-to-Last QualityYou will be happy to see that your seedlings have the optimum growing temperatures with these mats every time you check on them.

What to Look For

  • Do not use a standard heating pad for seed and seedling germination. These do not provide consistent heat.
  • If you want a more inclusive germination system, look for heat mats that include grow kits with humidity domes. These keep your little green babies well hydrated!
  • If you have a pet, you can put a seedling heating mat under a towel or blanket to warm up their bed. Just be sure to remove the mat once the item is heated up, as well as before they lay down.

More to Explore

Remember Jack and the Beanstalk? This beloved fairytale tells the story of poor young Jack, who used his mother’s milk money to buy magic beans. After being tossed outside, the beans sprout into an enormous stalk.

Jack later climbs the stalk repeatedly after finding a castle filled with gold coins, a goose that lays golden eggs and a magical harp. After the sleeping giant at the castle awakens and follows Jack down, Jack chops down the stalk with an axe, ending the giant’s life.

The moral of the story is to take advantage of all life’s opportunities. This applies to the benefits that a seedling heating mat can provide!

More to explore