How do you prefer to grow your seeds?
Whether you love the convenience of peat pots, the efficiency of pocket inserts, or the classic reliability of nursery pots, the right growing container can make seed starting easier, and your seedlings stronger.
At Ritchie’s, we carry all your favourite seed-starting tools in a variety of sizes to support every stage of your seedlings’ growth journey.
Why Your Container Choice Matters
The container you start with affects:
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Root development
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Moisture control
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Transplant success
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How easy it is to move seedlings into the garden later
If you’ve ever wondered why some seedlings thrive while others struggle, your pot style (and drainage) can be a big part of the answer.
What’s the Difference Between Peat Pots and Plastic Pots?
Peat Pots
Peat pots are popular for one big reason: easy transplanting.
Because they’re made from biodegradable material, they can be planted directly into the soil, where the pot will gradually decompose.
Best for:
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Gardeners who want less transplant shock
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Quick, no-fuss planting
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Seedlings that don’t love root disturbance
Keep in mind:
Peat pots dry out faster than plastic, so they may need more frequent watering.
Plastic Pots
Plastic nursery pots are the classic reusable option. They’re durable, easy to clean, and can be used season after season.
Best for:
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Gardeners who start lots of seeds each year
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Anyone who wants a long-lasting, reusable setup
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Seedlings that need steady moisture control
Keep in mind:
You’ll need to remove the seedling from the pot when transplanting, so handle roots gently.
Find Your Favourite Seed-Starting Tools
No matter your method, we’ve got options that fit your space, your style, and your growing goals, from peat pots to inserts to nursery pots in multiple sizes.
Shop Propagation Tools → HERE
| Tool | Best for | Why you’ll love it | Watch-outs | Pro tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peat Pots | Cucumbers, squash, melons; flowers; seedlings that dislike root disturbance | Easiest transplant: plant the whole pot (it decomposes in soil) which can reduce transplant shock | Can dry out faster than plastic | Keep evenly moist and make sure the pot edge isn’t sticking above soil at transplant time |
| Pocket Inserts / Cell Packs | Herbs, leafy greens, flowers; starting many varieties in small space | Organized + space-saving: great for trays, labeling, and bottom watering | Small cells can dry quickly; roots may need potting-up | Bottom-water to avoid damping-off and label each row as you sow |
| Plastic Nursery Pots | Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant; slow growers; plants staying indoors longer | Reusable + durable: steadier moisture and easy to use year after year | Must remove plant to transplant; needs cleaning between uses | Sanitize before reusing to prevent disease carryover |
| Not sure? Quick pick | Mixed gardens | Rule of thumb: Fast transplant = peat • Most seedlings = inserts • Long indoor time = plastic | Overwatering is the #1 issue across all types | Always choose containers with drainage holes (or add them!) |
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