What are the primary benefits of using a 1020 mesh tray for plant propagation?
The 1020 mesh tray provides superior drainage and enhanced aeration, which are critical for preventing root rot and fungal diseases like damping off. The mesh design facilitates a biological process known as air pruning, where root tips stop growing upon hitting the air at the bottom, encouraging the plant to develop a denser and more fibrous lateral root system. These heavy duty trays are built with extra strength materials to ensure they do not sag or warp even when carrying heavy wet soil blocks.
Which microgreen varieties grow best in mesh bottom trays?
Mesh trays are ideal for large seeded microgreen varieties that produce vigorous root systems, such as pea shoots, sunflowers, wheatgrass, and radishes. These crops benefit from the increased access to oxygen and the ease of drainage provided by the mesh openings. While primarily used for larger seeds, they can also accommodate smaller seeds if a growing medium like coco coir or a hemp mat is used to provide a stable foundation.
Are Bootstrap Farmer mesh trays made from food safe materials?
Yes, these trays are manufactured using high quality food safe plastics that are completely BPA free. These are constructed from number 5 polypropylene plastic, ensuring that no harmful chemicals leach into your soil or crops. This makes them a safe and reliable choice for growing edible microgreens and vegetable seedlings in professional or home environments.
4. How do I effectively use the bottom watering method with mesh trays?
To bottom water, you should nest your 1020 mesh tray inside a standard 1020 tray that has no holes. Add approximately one to two cups of water to the bottom tray and allow the mesh tray to sit in it for about 20 minutes, allowing the soil to draw up moisture through capillary action. Once the medium is sufficiently hydrated, remove the mesh tray and discard any excess water from the bottom tray to maintain proper aeration and prevent stagnant conditions.
Can these mesh trays be used for soil blocking?
The 1020 mesh tray is the industry standard for soil blocking because it provides the structural support needed to move compressed soil blocks without breakage. The mesh bottom is essential for this eco friendly method as it allows for consistent bottom watering and promotes the air pruning of roots between the blocks. Using a shallow 1 inch mesh tray allows for easy access when it is time to transplant the blocks into the garden.
What is the best way to clean and sanitise my reusable mesh trays?
Maintenance begins with removing all old soil and root debris using a high pressure hose or a scrub brush. These durable trays are dishwasher safe, provided the heated dry cycle is turned off to prevent thermal damage. To sanitise, you can spray the trays with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution or a diluted bleach mixture of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water, ensuring they are rinsed and allowed to air dry completely before storage to prevent mold growth.
What are the differences between the shallow and deep mesh tray options?
The shallow 1 inch mesh tray is specifically designed for microgreens and micro soil blocks, offering better airflow around stems and easier harvesting with a knife or scissors. The deep 2.5 inch mesh tray is better suited for taller microgreen varieties like sunflowers or larger soil blocks that require more vertical stability and a larger volume of growing medium. Both versions are engineered to fit perfectly within standard 1020 footprints.
Are these mesh trays compatible with standard 1020 domes and bottom trays?
Yes, Bootstrap Farmer mesh trays are designed to be fully compatible with standard 1020 dimensions used in the horticulture industry. They will nest seamlessly into extra strength no hole trays for bottom watering and fit securely under standard humidity domes to maintain moisture during the germination phase. For the most precise fit, it is recommended to pair them with other Bootstrap Farmer 1020 components.
How do mesh trays help in preventing mold on microgreens?
Mold thrives in stagnant, overly wet conditions which are common in solid bottom trays with poor drainage. The 1020 mesh tray eliminates this risk by providing total drainage across the entire base, ensuring that excess moisture cannot pool around the roots. When combined with proper air circulation and bottom watering, the mesh design keeps the foliage and soil surface dry, which is the most effective way to prevent surface mold and damping off.
What kind of warranty is provided with Bootstrap Farmer heavy duty trays?
These injection moulded trays are backed by a 2 year warranty that covers any cracks, breaks, or manufacturing defects that occur under normal growing conditions. Because they are built for long term commercial use, they are significantly more durable than standard flimsy nursery flats. If a tray fails within the two year period, the company provides a free replacement upon receiving a photo of the damage.
