I've been trying to figure out why peat starter pots seem to be a disaster for seedlings. They look like a great option at first since they're supposed to be easier for transplanting compared to plastic trays. I thought peeling them off during transplant would be less stressful for the seedlings. But once my seedlings sprout, they don't thrive in these peat pots. Why is that? Are there harmful chemicals involved, or is it just that peat pots don't work well, even worse than plastic pots? I'd really love some scientific insight into this issue!
2 Answers
Peat pots have a big issue with moisture management. They absorb water differently than regular soil — they can get either too dry or too soggy. When they dry out, they can pull moisture away from the seedlings, and when they hold too much water, the roots can suffer from lack of oxygen. Ideally, seedlings need evenly moist soil with good airflow, which peat pots struggle to provide. I've switched to newspaper pots, and they seem to be a much better choice since they don't retain moisture like peat does. Some seedlings are thriving now!
Absolutely! I've noticed the same moisture rollercoaster with peat pots. Switching to paper pots really helped my seedlings bounce back, unlike those poor things I had in peat.
Honestly, I’ve had great success with an aero garden. I just put my seedlings straight into the ground there and they thrive! No issues with peat pots at all. I guess it depends on the method you use. If it works for you, stick with it!
That’s true! I had a similar experience, but the only problem was dealing with the roots once they grew too big in the cones.
Same here! But with the company out of business now, I’m in a tough spot for replacements.
Right! It’s like the peat pots give my seedlings a bipolar experience—drought or flooding! I can't believe I relied on them for so long.