Jump Start Smart Float 55-Cell Grow Tray w/Plugs

The 55-cell insert is designed to float on the surface of water held in the tray, suspending the plugs just above the waterline. Moisture wicks upward into each plug through capillary action, keeping the root zone consistently moist without submerging the plugs — preventing both underwatering and overwatering simultaneously.

Yes. The tray is compatible with standard Hydrofarm domes, which sit over the insert to create an enclosed mini greenhouse environment. Adding a dome significantly improves humidity retention, and for even faster results, you can place the tray on a seedling heat mat regulated by a digital temperature controller to maintain consistent root zone temperatures.

Yes. The Smart Float is well-suited for both seed germination and cloning from cuttings. The consistent moisture delivery and aerated plug structure support root initiation for cuttings the same way it supports seedling development, making it a flexible propagation platform regardless of your starting method.

When roots are visible through the bottom of the plug or emerging from the sides, the plant is ready to transplant. Gently push up from below to release the plug from the cell, then place the entire plug — root ball intact — directly into your next growing medium. No unwrapping or separation is required, which minimizes transplant shock and root disturbance.

No. The tray and 55-cell floating insert are reusable and built to last across many propagation cycles. Quick Start plug refills are available separately, so once you've used your initial 55 plugs, you only need to purchase replacement plugs to run the system again — no new equipment required.

Fill the tray with enough water so the floating insert sits on the surface and plugs make contact with or are just barely above the waterline. Avoid overfilling to the point where plugs are submerged, as this would defeat the system's air-to-water balance. Top off the tray as the water level drops to keep the insert floating properly throughout the propagation period.