Product Field NotesGrower Supplies
288-Cell Seed Start Tray: Hundreds of Lavender Seedlings in One Flat
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The 288 Cell Seed Start Tray packs a lot of seedlings into a standard flat. With 288 small cells in a 12 x 24 grid, it is built for growers who start lavender, herbs and perennials from seed and want even, uniform germination before moving plants on to bigger cells.
Quick answer: Use it to germinate seeds, not to grow plants to size. Fill with a fine, light mix, sow one or two seeds per cell, water from below and pot seedlings up once they have a couple of sets of true leaves.
Tray specifications
| Spec | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Perimeter trim | 11.00 x 21.22 inches |
| Cell layout | 12 x 24 (288 cells) |
| Cell depth | 1.25 inches (3.18 cm) |
| Top cell diameter | 0.76 inch (1.93 cm) |
| Max dry volume | 0.43 cubic inch per cell |
| Max liquid capacity | 0.24 U.S. fl oz (7.1 ml) per cell |
| Drain hole | 0.31 inch diameter |
| Feet | No |
Starting lavender from seed
Lavender seed is small and slow, and germination can be uneven, so it rewards patience. Many growers chill the seed for a few weeks before sowing to improve germination. Press seeds onto the surface of a moist, fine seed-starting mix and cover them very lightly, then keep the tray warm and evenly moist. Expect seedlings to take their time; a few weeks is normal.
Watering tiny cells
Small cells dry out fast and can wash out with a heavy hand. Bottom watering works best: set the tray in a solid flat with an inch of water, let the mix wick moisture up, then drain the extra. Because this tray has no feet and thin walls, support it in a flat or web tray whenever you move it.
When to pot up
Once seedlings have a couple of sets of true leaves and roots hold the plug together, move them into deeper cells such as a 72-cell star tray, or into small pots. Waiting too long in a 288 cell leads to crowded, root-bound plants.
Who it is for
It suits greenhouses, propagation centers and serious home growers starting perennials, edibles, bedding plants and nursery stock. Packs range from a single tray upward. See the product page for current pack sizes and availability, or the Wholesale Hub for larger orders.
Frequently asked questions
Can I grow lavender to planting size in this tray?
No. The cells are too small. Pot seedlings up to a deeper tray or pots before they go outside.
Do lavender varieties grow true from seed?
Many named cultivars do not come true from seed, which is why they are usually propagated from cuttings. Seed-grown lavender can vary from plant to plant.

































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