The TS-256 is a ultra-high-density propagation tray designed for raising large numbers of small seedlings efficiently. With 1,600 cells per m² and air-pruning bases that prevent root curl from the start, it's built for growers who want maximum output from their propagation space without compromising on root quality.
Air-Pruning Bases — Root Quality at High Density
At 16 cc per cell, the TS-256 is compact — but the air-pruning base design ensures that even in a small cell, roots develop correctly. As roots reach the base, they are naturally air-pruned rather than left to spiral, prompting the plant to branch out and build a fibrous, well-structured root system. Seedlings come out of the tray with roots primed to establish quickly rather than a tangled mass that needs to sort itself out after planting.
Uniform square cells ensure consistent spacing and even development across the entire tray — so you're not pulling a mix of strong and weak seedlings at transplant time.
What Makes It Different
- 1,600 cells per m² — exceptional output from a compact tray footprint
- Air-pruning bases — healthy, fibrous root systems without root curl, even at small cell volumes
- Uniform cell spacing — consistent seedling development and even planting density
- Virgin HDPE with UV protection — durable in outdoor and sheltered growing conditions
- 256 cells per tray (16 × 16) — manageable tray size for handling and bench use
Specifications
| Tray Dimensions | 395 × 395 × 50 mm |
| Cell Dimensions | 24 × 24 × 50 mm |
| Cell Volume | 16 cc |
| Cells per Tray | 256 (16 × 16) |
| Cells per m² | 1,600 |
| Material | Virgin HDPE with UV protection |
| Best For | Small forestry seedlings, native species, high-volume propagation |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the TS-256 best used for?
The TS-256 is best suited to small seedlings that will be transplanted at an early stage — including native trees and shrubs, forestry species, and any plant where you want to raise large numbers efficiently. The small cell volume means it's not the right choice for species that need extended time in the tray before transplanting.
Can air pruning really work in such a small cell?
Yes — the air-pruning base design works regardless of cell size. Even at 16 cc, roots are redirected and pruned before they can curl, so the root structure that develops is proportionally healthy and well-branched. The benefit at transplant is the same: roots that are ready to advance into the soil immediately rather than needing time to recover from deformation.
How many trays do I need for a typical propagation run?
Each TS-256 holds 256 seedlings. For a run of 1,000 seedlings you'd need four trays; for 2,500 seedlings, ten trays. The consistent 395 × 395 mm footprint makes it easy to calculate bench space and plan your setup in advance.