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Planting Plugs. Bell Ringer. Write the answer to the questions in your notebook. GET STARTED!!! What is a plug? What is the difference between a plug and a seed. Learning Targets. I can understand the importance of plugs. I can describe the difference between plug and seeds.
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Bell Ringer • Write the answer to the questions in your notebook. • GET STARTED!!! • What is a plug? • What is the difference between a plug and a seed.
Learning Targets • I can understand the importance of plugs. • I can describe the difference between plug and seeds. • I can follow the steps to plant a plug.
What is plugs? • Seedlings grown in a fine textured artificial soil mix in special plastic trays containing numerous small cells. • Trays can hold 128 to 800 seedlings.
Why is planting plugs important? • Rapid mass production of seedlings • Transplantation shock is almost nonexistent • Root masses are stable • Increased growth rate • MONEY!
Okay, so plugs are important! What about the advantages? • Cost of soil is low • Fertilizer is done with water soluble plant foods • Seedling environment is controlled by manipulation • Simplest method for plants that are hard to germinate
What it the difference? Plugs Seeds • Small plant grown in a tray • Has separate cell of compost • Smallest are mini-plugs • Largest are maxi-plugs • Ripened plant ovule containing an embryo • A source or beginning of a plant
Do I need any materials? • Plug plants • Dibble or pencil • Potting soil • Watering cans • Trays or pots
Step 1: Remove plugs from trays! • Plugs arrive, water and store them in a cool place • Fill your tray or pot up with soil DO NOT COMPACT SOIL • Use the end of your pencil to GENTLY push the plug out of the tray
Step 2: Plant up in modules • Make a small hole in the center of the pot or tray cell • Insert the plug • Push the soil around the plug firmly DO NOT COMPACT SOIL • Leave about 1/8 in headspace from the top of the rim
Step 3: Water the newly transplanted plugs • Make sure the soil is moist to the touch • Soil should not be drenched PLANT CAN DIE FROM OVERWATERING • Color of soil should be dark • Too light color of soil needs more water
Are you ready to start? • Is fun and easy! • You will benefit from planting plugs through the FFA Spring Sale! • Tell you parents and family! • It will help to support trips and activities!