The Hour

If you are in the process of thinking about your spring garden then look no further. Pete Jackson explains why you should be using propagators to get the best out of your seeds.

“Propagation starts in January and February, it’s a way of cheating the system, by putting artificial heat under the compost and they (seeds) get off to a better start.” Jackson said.

Here are Pete’s top propagator picks for your garden this season:

1.    Self Watering Propagator, priced at £6 for the tray or £15 for the set

The cheapest of the bunch, this basic propagator uses a simple tray with a polystyrene insert, to enable your seeds to grow. It can sit on your windowsill or in the greenhouse.

For more information on the Self Watering Propagator, visit www.greenhousepeople.co.uk

2.    Growarm 100 heated propagator kit, priced at £21.99

If you’re looking for a great starter kit then Pete recommends the Growarm 100, with a ventilation system. Its great value for money as Pete explains: “It has a built in thermostat, when it reaches a certain temperature it will cut out and they cut back it.” Pete adds: “The good thing about having the lid on is that it keeps the moisture in.”

For more information on the Growarm 100, visit www.gardensupplies.co.uk

3.    Vitopod propagator, priced at £134.95

The largest and most expensive of the four is the Vitopod. Pete thinks “it could be very good for schools to encourage them to grow.” Voted as one of the best on the market, it may be a little pricey however this propagator is stylish and spacious.

For more information on the Vitopod, visit www.greenhousesensation.co.uk

4.    Aerogarden propagator , priced at £99.99

This stylish propagator has removable plates with small holes, perfect for growing herbs or plants in small pots. With temperature control this device is self-managing, ideal for getting on with other gardening duties.

For more information on the Aerogarden, visit www.aerogarden.co.uk

For more gardening information, visit The Hour’s Garden Section and visit Pete Jackson’s own website, at www.earthy.co.uk/