Plant propagation

Plant propagation is vital to agriculture and horticulture, not just for human food production but also for forest and fibre crops, as well as traditional and herbal medicine.

Some plant species, including many trees, do not produce seeds until they reach maturity, which may take many years.

They generally provide bottom heat (maintained at a particular temperature) and high humidity, which is essential in successful seed germination and in helping cuttings to take root.

If excessive condensation forms on the inside of the lid, the gardener can open the ventilating holes to regulate the temperature a little.

The mats are made so that planters containing seedlings can be placed on top of the metal cage without the risk of starting a fire.

[10] In extreme cold, gardeners place a loose plastic cover over the planters/mats which creates a sort of miniature greenhouse.