Peat Pots for Transplanting Vegetables

Transplants are delicate. Damage may occur when removing them from pots.

Jiffy Pot is a brand name for flower and vegetable planting pots that are made of peat. Peat is a biodegradable material that adds to soil health while breaking down.

Function

Peat pots are biodegradable. Gardeners plant seeds in peat pots; when the seedling is ready for transplant the gardener may dig a hole and place the entire peat pot in the ground. There is no need to first remove the seedling and soil from the pot, but the entire pot must be covered with soil or the uncovered peat will suck moisture away from the transplanted vegetable plant.

Size

Peat pots come in various sizes. Seedling trays and cups are available in peat, as are small pots up to large pots that hold a few gallons.

Significance

Peat pots prevent damage and stress to plants during transplant. Plants experience some shock when transplanted due to temperature change (indoor to outdoor) and their roots being disturbed. Using peat pots reduces stress because the roots are never disturbed.

References

• University of Minnesota Extension: Transplanting
• MSU Cares: Container
• Novosel Enterprises: Jiffy Peat Pots