Product Reviews and Ratings - APS - APS 40 from Gardener's Supply Company

Buy the APS 40 on http://www.gardeners.com/

(based on 69 ratings)

Located in: Gardening, Seedstarting, APS

This all-in-one unit ensures steady supply of water for seedings. Just keep the reservoir filled and the soil will remain perfectly moist.

The APS-40 is best suited for starting small seedlings, flowers and vegetables that are easily transplanted
For best results, use with our . One bag fills three APS 40 (with some soil left over)
Includes Pegboard, Planting Tray, Reservoir, Capillary Mat, and Greenhouse Cover
are available
View all of our

More information for the APS 40

Review Snapshot®

Avg. Customer Rating:

4.5 stars

(based on 69 reviews)

94% of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Customers most agreed on the following attributes:

Pros:

Attractive(27), Drains well(29), Durable(4), Easy to use(16), Holding capacity(42)

Cons:

Flimsy(8)

Best Uses:

Garden(6), Growing seeds(57), Household plants(3), Outdoor plants(7), Plant transferal(7)

Describe Yourself:

Avid gardener(40), Budget shopper(6), Getting started(8), Master gardener(7), Practical(10)

Best of the Best!

By Sheila

from Southern Maryland on 9/21/2010

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity, Weather Resistant

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds, Household Plants, Outdoor Plants, Plant Transferal

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

There is simply no better way to start seeds for your garden, than using the APS 40. It's simple, saves time, and works great. Being able to plant your seeds, and letting the APS 40 water itself, is the first step to the easiest gardening you will ever experience. It gives your seeds exactly what they need to become strong transplants for your garden. Seed success is much higher, and it takes the worry out of getting started. After using the AS 40 for years now, I would never use anything else. In fact, I just purchased 2 more.

The best!

By veggie lover

from Boothbay Harbor, ME on 5/24/2010

Pros:

Holding Capacity

Cons:

Wasnt expecting styrofoam

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I thought the seed cells would be made of hard plastic, not styrofoam. The styrofoam was a little flimsy when filling with soil. Seeds grew at a faster pace than the seed packet reported.

if u want seedlings buy this, it works

By flowergirl

from traverse city, michigan on 5/19/2010

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity, Weather Resistant

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds, Household Plants, Outdoor Plants

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

In the 9 years that ive used gardeners supply companys products, ive had few disapointments, and never with aps 40 or 24

Little Flimsy

By A gardener

from Vulcan, MI on 5/10/2010

Pros:

Drains Well, Holding Capacity

Cons:

Deteriorates/Rots, Flimsy

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

No, I would not recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Started tomato seeds and they look good, moisture is kept consistent, but I can see how easily the foam parts can break

Excellent for raising seedlings

By Lee Reich

from New Paltz, NY on 5/6/2010

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Professional Landscaper

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

This excellent product makes caring for a lot of seedlings easy. You can't completely forget about watering, though -- the reservoir does, obviously, need periodic filling. The only improvement i would make is to manufacture it out of some hard plastic; then the APS system would last longer and be less susceptible to breakage, and the seedlings would slide out of their cells more easily.

Awesome...

By Jess

from Columbus, OH on 4/29/2010

Pros:

Attractive Design, Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds, Plant Transferal

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Just what I needed. Its perfect.

Great idea but....

By AML the CPA from Baltimore, MD on 4/5/2010

Pros:

Drains Well

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Master Gardener

Comments about APS 40:

cells are not deep enough and the seedlings were hard to get out of the individual cells to transplant.

Works OK, not the best.

By Charlie

from Lincoln, NE on 4/2/2010

Pros:

Drains Well

Cons:

Flimsy

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

No, I would not recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I am curently testing four different systems and this one seems to be average. Cover needs more room for plants, too short.

Deep-Root Seedstarting System worked best!!

So far, so good.

By Tanya the Extreme Gardener from Windsor, CO on 4/1/2010

Pros:

Drains Well, Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Professional Landscaper

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

So far, so good. Seedlings are popping up on schedule. Have not had any issues or problems. I planted my seeds two weeks ago. I look forward to watching the growth of the seedlings and how the transplant process will go.

idiot proof seed starter

By Laurie

from Pound Ridge, NY on 4/1/2010

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds, Plant Transferal

Describe Yourself:

Getting Started

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Wonderful way to start seedlings indoors--even this idiot can figure it out! And the self-watering aspect will keep the seedlings alive even when I forget to water by hand.

Quality is not what I expected

By Suzanne from Elizabeth. CO on 3/20/2010

Cons:

Poor quality parts, Water reservoir is flimsy

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

No, I would not recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I have used these for years and the design is great. However, my last purchase showed me that the quality of the parts had deteriorated from what they used to be. The water reservoir on the APS 40 is much flimsier than before and is unusable after just just one season. The reservoirs I received on the APS 24's are heavier weight. I have purchased at least three sets over the years but this will be my last purchase unless the quality improves.

Excellant to start seeds but .....

By liz from East Islio,N.Y. on 3/13/2010

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity, Weather Resistant

Cons:

Need better replacement

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds, Plant Transferal

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I have used this product for over 5 years. I am very satisfied with its use. My seeds grow great. The bottom watering saves my seeds from alot of fungal disease. I would NEVER use another seed starting product. The product lasts a good while. The only problem I have with it is they don't offer replacement for the foam starting trays and that is what breaks. The parts they do offer don't break. That is why I am giving it a less than perfect rating.

Images shared by: liz

Tried and True

By Mary, Quite Contrary from Becker, MN on 3/12/2010

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I have been using the APS system for years, owning 10 starters but I keep expanding what I grow myself versus what I am willing to purchase at a green house so I ordered 2 additonal starters. The northern climate is shorter than most so an early start is a plus. These starters are easy and effective and if I had more window space, I would easily own more!

Great for forgetful gardeners!

By ReadReadRead

from Catonsville, MD on 3/8/2010

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity

Cons:

Plastic parts are fragile

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds, Plant Transferal

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I love being able to leave it for a few days without worrying that the seedlings are drying out. I wish the plastic bottom tray were made of heavier plastic so that it was studier. I also wish that you could buy the replacement part for the part with "legs".

Last for years!

By Special K

from Chester County, PA on 3/3/2010

Pros:

Easy assembly, Easy to use, Increases seed yield, Reusable

Cons:

Grows Mold/Mildew

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds, Outdoor Plants

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I have been using these for at least 6 years. I have replaced 3 of them in that time, but mine typically last 3+ years. I put two seeds in each cell, and instead of the domed covers, I cover with plastic wrap - it holds moisture in better but I get less mold, I can stick labels in and put the wrap around them, and if some sprout before others, I can fold the wrap back or cut pieces over the unsprouted cells. I often transplant into 4 inch pots (the ones with the wicking mat, especially for vegetables, before planting outside. I have used these for: impatiens, petunias, peppers, eggplants, lettuce, spinach, cabbage, arugula, coleus and lots of other seeds. Best for annuals that don't direct-sow well (those are better in cowpots or newspaper pots - sunflowers, zucchini etc).

Efficient seed starting system

By Phil H

from Green Cove Springs, FL on 2/21/2010

Pros:

Holding Capacity

Cons:

Styrofoam can break

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Enables high-volume seed starting. Watering system is particularly effective.

Great for tomatoe seeds!!!!!!

By Tom

from Westwego, LA on 2/8/2010

Pros:

Drains Well, Holding Capacity, Self watering

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

This product is perfect for staring Heirloom Tomatoe seeds. I also have the APS 24 which is the same size tray but with larger compartments (holding 24 plants). The APS 40 has smaller compartments but holds 40 plants. I like the APS 40 since you can start more seedlings when you want quantity. You just need to transplant seedlings a little sooner than with the APS 24. They are both great products.

Very Impressed

By Mimi

from Lake City, FL on 2/8/2010

Describe Yourself:

Getting Started

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I bought both the APS-40 and APS-24. I wasn't sure they would be any different than other seed starter kits but boy was I wrong. They are working great and I don't have to worry about watering every day! [...]

One of the best seed starting products

By Country Cluck

from Portland, OR on 1/27/2010

Pros:

Attractive Design, Easy to assemble, Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Master Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I bought several APS units this year to start seeds and I really like the APS 40. I am currently starting cabbage seeds in it and they have sarted to sprout after only 3 days. On first inspection they seemed a little flimsy, but they are actually quite durable. I would highly recomend the APS 40 to anyone looking for seed starting equipment that will last for years.

[0 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

Good Idea But ........

By MLS

from Hebron, IN on 1/2/2010

Pros:

Holding Capacity

Cons:

Not the best kit

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

No, I would not recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Good idea and should work well but the Capillary Mat that came with my order was way too short to do any good! The mat that came with my unit barely reaches the inside of the base. This means I would have to have the water level at the very top of the base. To counter this problem I've had to trim the peg board stand as not to have water spill everywhere.

Also, for general stability and proper capillary action, I would prefer the Cover to cover down to the reservoir instead of only the top of the planting tray.

Before recommending this kit, I would first look for something better at a garden center or here before buying this unit if you cannot make a better one yourself.

great device for gemnation

By David the Aggie

from Kerrville, Tx on 12/23/2009

Pros:

Attractive Design, Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Professional Landscaper

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I use these to propagate a very difficult and rare species of texas tree. I have
found no other way to have a high success rate.

This is the 3rd one I have purchased

By neeceegirl

from Red Bay AL on 10/27/2009

Pros:

Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Does a really nice job starting seeds. Convenient to use, does not take up a lot of space.

it appears to be a good product

By how does your garden grow

from cincinnati on 5/29/2009

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity, Weather Resistant

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Getting Started

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

well designed, compact. easy to use with grow light.

Works as advertised

By Happy Gardener

from Brooktondale, NY on 5/22/2009

Pros:

Easy assembly, Easy to use

Cons:

None

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I really like this product. It works as advertised. I also bought the water gauge and that helps a lot. I think the water gauge should be part of the product though as it would be more difficult to use for me without the gauge. Proper watering of my seedlings has always been hit and miss, but with this product I no longer have to guess.

It worked absolutely fine.

By Larry

from Alma, MI on 5/19/2009

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds, Outdoor Plants

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

It was 'self watering' was the best part of it.

Great start for small plants

By RayAA

from Ann Arbor, MI on 5/6/2009

Pros:

Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Easy start for small plants.

It is great

By Cindy122

from El Cerrito, CA on 5/4/2009

Pros:

Easy to use

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Getting Started

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I am a first year gardener. The APS is wonderful, because I don't need to worry about watering them. It is very exciting to see my little plants.

[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

An amazing product

By Marelanie

from Grand Rapids, Michigan on 5/1/2009

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I have used the APS germinating trays and have had great success with them. This year I had planted seeds and was out of town for a week. I filled up the bottom resevoir with water and when I returned my little seedlings were growing great. The soil is always uniformly wet. Using the APS I have not have any trouble with damping off of the seedlings. Great product!

[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

Very well made

By Lar Bear

from Las Vegas, NV on 4/25/2009

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I am handicapped and am trying to stay as active as possible. This seedstater will definately help me achieve my goals. It is easy to put together. Easy to use. Not too heavy. I am using this to work on seeds for houseplants. As long as you treat the parts with respect it will last several seasons. I am very pleased with both the APS 40 and Gardeners Supply.

[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

works like a charm!

By Elizabeth the Garden Nerd

from Seattle, WA on 4/20/2009

Pros:

Drains Well, Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds, Household Plants, Outdoor Plants

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I used these flats to start some seed and they worked beautifully. I had also started some seed with ziplock bags but the seed starter kit seeds germinated faster and much more reliably.

[2 of 2 customers found this review helpful]

I would recommend this product

By Mary the Gardener from Sunderland, VT on 4/20/2009

Pros:

Easy to use

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I purchased all three sizes when they were first introduced in 1992. I have tried other methods but find this system to be the easiest - no guessing about over or under watering. Seedlings transplant well.

Works Great

By CG

from Baltimore, MD on 4/14/2009

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity, Weather Resistant

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Seeds grew quickly in this growing system

APS40

By JKS

from Memphis, TN on 4/10/2009

Pros:

Attractive Design, Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Getting Started

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Really smart design.

Seed starter

By Nancy

from Oceanside, CA on 4/4/2009

Pros:

Holding Capacity, Low Maintenance

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

We've only had to add water once in the last few weeks which made it very easy to use instead of daily watering. Our seedling success rate is much greater with this system and they grow quickly in comparison to what we were using before.

Excellent for starting seeds!

By Peter

from Yankeetown, Florida on 4/3/2009

Pros:

Attractive Design, Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

An ideal medium for starting seeds. I get a much greater percentage of germination compared to other methods I have used.

Start seeds quickly!

By Dorothy Nell Smith, R.D.

from Collinsville, AL on 4/3/2009

Pros:

Complete system

Cons:

Deteriorates/Rots

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Getting Started

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

This seed starting system is complete, and the easiest that I have tried. My seeds came up in half the time stated on the package, and I do not have to worry about the watering, as this is automatically handled! I can't wait to buy more.

[2 of 2 customers found this review helpful]

Surprised by the material

By Dunkra

from Oskaloosa, KS on 4/2/2009

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Comments about APS 40:

I just ordered the APS-40, APS-24 and APS-12 seed starting systems. When they arrived, I was disappointed to find that they were partly made of styrofoam, because I considered them an investment to use over and over again, and I try to use ecological materials at all times. I decided to try one tray to see how well they worked, and I must say I was very pleased with the germination and growth of the seedlings. I don't know how well they will last for multiple uses yet. Just be aware that the bases and potting flats are made of styrofoam.

great seed starting

By martha

from huntington, in on 3/31/2009

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

used to start vegetables and herbs. unbelieveable at how quickly germination occurred.

Easy for first time gardener

By Philip L

from Columbia, SC on 3/27/2009

Pros:

Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Getting Started

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Easy to use, clear instructions. It was great for me as a first time gardener.

Works like a charm

By Rayaa

from Ann Arbor, MI on 3/27/2009

Pros:

Holding Capacity, Reusable, sturdy

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Had great luck with APS units in the past. These seem even more durable. Easy to use.

[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

This really works.

By Ellie

from Central valley, CA on 3/26/2009

Pros:

Keeps seedlings moist

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I don't have to constantly check to keep seedlings from drying out. Replacement parts easily make these units like new after a few years of use.

Dependable seed starting

By Indy Gardener

from Carmel, IN on 3/24/2009

Pros:

Attractive Design, Consistant soil moisture, Drains Well, Sturdy reusable

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Master Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

The APS systems provide for easy, dependable seed starting. The variety of sizes available helps avoid having to transplant early. This product is well-designed, and holds up well through repeated uses.

[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

Easy to use

By Bob A

from Lititz, PA on 3/24/2009

Pros:

Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds, Plant Transferal

Describe Yourself:

Master Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Very easy to use. It was very convenient to not have to water multiple times a day. With the proper wetness of the germinating mix, the system kept the soil consistently moist. Many seeds sprouted long before their claimed period. When it came time to transplant to larger pots, the system was fantastic. Just invert the stand and gently push the seed tray onto it and all the seedlings popped out with their soil and roots fully in tact! Then just a simple lift-out with the help of a flat blade and presto.

Helpful and handy

By Renee

from Boston, MA on 3/23/2009

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity

Cons:

Sides are breakable

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds, Outdoor Plants

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I have the APS in all different sizes. This one is good for starting a lot of similar plants...in my case, tomatoes and marigolds. The only problem I had was when I tried to move it from the side, not the bottom. The wall of the compartment broke off in my hand. It's heavier than it looks! I'm loving the fact I don't have to worry about watering every day.

Excellent

By Michael

from Grant, Alabama on 3/23/2009

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity, Simple Solution, Weather Resistant

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I have tried seveal seed starters and none worked like this one. It was simple, and it actually works. Starting seeds is the hardest part for me for my small green house. 80% of the seeds came up with the seed starting fomula - I usually get about 20%. Pushing the plant ball out from the bottom makes transplanting easy without disturbing the other plants. Plus, you don't need any little pots or pellets to get results.Awesome!

Works great!

By Seed starter

from Des Moines, IA on 3/21/2009

Pros:

Attractive Design, Holding Capacity

Cons:

Flimsy

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Works just like I expected. Easy to assemble, but a little flimsy. Hope it last through more than one season.

[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

Nice setup to start plants

By Carl

from Farmington, PA on 3/17/2009

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds, Plant Transferal

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Good set up. The only complaint I have is the bottom tray is not tall enough. When fully assembled the stand off piece that holds the planting cells out of the water and the planting cell uniit are higher then the bottom tray. If you are not careful when you move the tray the planting cell unit can slide off. This product fuctions well the planting mix stayed moist and was not to "wet". Peppers seeds did well (in soil for 15 days before sprouting)I like the styrofoam planting cells they will insulate the soil this should keep the roots warm.

Performs as advertised

By Miller

from Sterling, CO on 3/13/2009

Pros:

Works great

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

The water reservoir is awesome. No over watering of seedings. I will probably get one or two more next year.

[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

Best Seed Starting System ever!

By Tamma

from La Mesa, CA on 3/6/2009

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Easy to use, Great watering systsem, Holding Capacity, Low Maintenance, Weather Resistant

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Master Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I have been using the APS systems for many years now. They are wonderful. With the water well and wicking mat I don't need to worry about my seedlings drying out and can go away for a couple of days without worry. The cells are just the right size for starting seeds (I use the APS-40). I probably have about 30 sets all together. They have been easy to clean and re-use. I like the fact that I can purchase replacement parts for them.

[2 of 2 customers found this review helpful]

APS is the best system for seed propagat

By Arlene

from Maryland on 2/6/2009

Pros:

Clear cover, Self watering design

Cons:

Flimsy, Reservoir breaks easily

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I have been using the APS systems for many years and have found them to be the most reliable of all that are out there. Combined with the seed germination mix, you can't go wrong. I have grow fussy plants I had never been able to get to grow before. This system is my first choice for starting seeds!

[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

the aps system.

By Dave and Susan

from Jackson, Mi. on 2/2/2009

Pros:

Holding Capacity, Weather Resistant

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

last year I got 2 aps 24. They worked great! We had to be away for several days and I didn't have to worry about them drying out. All the seedlings grew well.

[2 of 2 customers found this review helpful]

Great product at resonable cost

By Chesapeake Man

from Washington DC metro area on 1/9/2009

Pros:

Drains Well, Ease of use

Cons:

None

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Although I preferred the paper pots from Gardner's Supply they were discontinued and found this to be the best alternative. Ease of use, great results and with a little cleaning they last year to year.

[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

Great product!

By Ria

from Malvern, PA on 12/1/2008

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Seeds grow better using this product than any other I have experienced.

[2 of 2 customers found this review helpful]

I would buy this product again

By charo

from Montesano WA on 11/28/2008

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I have lots of seeds I want to get started and need something easy to get them going. I have limited room right now in the house. These come in handy....

[2 of 2 customers found this review helpful]

I can't have enough of these on hand..

By Simon's Garden

from Cave Creek, Arizona on 11/11/2008

Pros:

Attractive Design, Holding Capacity, Weather Resistant

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Master Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

We have used this product for years, We have a Organic Vegetable Garden Company, and the APS's are the best systems that we have found... We recommend them highly... Simon's Garden.

[2 of 2 customers found this review helpful]

Buy one- it lasts for ever !

By erwinito

from oakland, ca on 11/7/2008

Pros:

Drains Well, Re-usable

Cons:

Flimsy, Needs more 96 holes

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Stop buying those silly little peat plugs and make your own mix and use this contraption... so simple and ALL my seeds came up.. all were vegetables and are ready to be transplanted. keep indoors.

[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

APS 40

By Pops

from Hobart IN on 11/6/2008

Pros:

Holding Capacity

Cons:

Grows Mold/Mildew

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Avid Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

With all the new growing products on the market the old standby APS is still the best.

[3 of 3 customers found this review helpful]

Best Seed Starting system ever!

By Tina's Terrific Plants

from East Falmouth, MA on 9/29/2008

Pros:

Can be reused over over, Drains Well, Holding Capacity

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds, Outdoor Plants

Describe Yourself:

Master Gardener

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I have used this product for over 20 years, bleach the trays between plantings. The only drawback is that the two plastic components (clear dome and water reservoir) can break and become brittle after a few years. Though I have found that once germination occurs I place the trays in the Large Boot trays you sell, they are a perfect fit (5 units/boot tray) eliminating the need to use the individual water reservoir for very long. Thereby extending the life of the two plastic components.

[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

Works as it should

By wingsofeagle

from Huntington Beach,CA on 9/3/2008

Pros:

Attractive Design, Drains Well, Holding Capacity, Weather Resistant

Best Uses:

Growing Seeds

Describe Yourself:

Getting Started

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

My first seed came out in just 3 days , for last 6 days nothing yet , this item does a great job watering from bottom and no mold issue yet

I like it alot

By Spicy

from Mount Gretna PA on 7/12/2008

Pros:

Easy To Use, Lightweight, Versatile

Best Uses:

Garden

Describe Yourself:

Bargain Hunter, Practical

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I started all my veggie garden seedlings with this.

[4 of 4 customers found this review helpful]

Save money by reusing it

By Cville

from Sewell, NJ on 7/11/2008

Pros:

Easy To Use, Lightweight, Versatile

Best Uses:

Garden, Patio

Describe Yourself:

Bargain Hunter, Practical

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Hint for planting - dump your starter soil over the top of the unit, pat it into the cells and brush away the excess. Use a pencil to make an impression deep enough for your seeds or transplants. Use a spray bottle to keep the top soil moist until the natural absorbtion process takes over from underneath.

I would buy this product again

By Grandma

from Chico, CA on 7/10/2008

Pros:

Durable, Easy To Use, Lightweight, Versatile

Cons:

Flimsy

Best Uses:

Garden

Describe Yourself:

Practical

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I start a lot of plants from seed and this makes it so I don't have to worry about water or bugs

[5 of 5 customers found this review helpful]

Kept my babies alive despite me

By Wholestory

from Dallas, TX on 7/10/2008

Pros:

Easy To Use, Lightweight, Reusable

Best Uses:

Seed Starting

Describe Yourself:

Bargain Hunter, Forgetful, Practical, Stylish

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

My favorite way to kill my plants is to forget to water them. This product helped the seedlings sprout and survive despite me.

I used the clear lid for the bottom because I could see the water level, unlike the opaque, black bottom they provide, where I had to go poking my finger inside each container.

As long as the mat remained at least somewhat moist, it would continue to wick up the water from the reservoir. If the mat (or portions of the mat) were allowed to dry, then it was almost impossible to get the dry parts of the mat to wick up moisture again, despite soaking it in water for days, cold or hot water, despite trying to get the trapped air out to allow water back in by squeezing, etc.

Cleaning it was a bit difficult (so many surfaces), but I figured out that if I wash it reasonably in soap and water, and then spray it down with a diluted bleach spray, let it sit for a few, and then rinse it off well, this killed all the pathogens and there was no damping-off of the next batch of seedlings (and algae didn't return with a vengeance).

If the roots grew into the mat, that was ok, because I just cut the mat into pieces and slipped it through the holes along with the seedling and soil when it was time to transplant.

Like any styrofoam-type product would do, if you held the tray by the edges, and the dirt was wet, the material would break apart because it couldn't support the weight. So hold the tray from underneath, not the edges. Otherwise the product was decently durable.

Also, the styrofoam material had those typical, tiny crevices all over where algae could get in, and was hard to clean out. But luckily the bleach cleaning process I mentioned earlier seemed to kill the algae nicely.

Dissolved fertilizer seemed to get to the roots just fine.

The 40 cell size seemed the best for the type of plants I grow (achillea, flax, basil, parsley, etc.). The roots don't seem to spread out much before the central root portion reaches down to the mat, and it's time to transplant into bigger containers.

Overall I'm quite happy with this product compared to the _many_ other types of seedling growing kits I've tried. I've bought more since my first purchase. It does a great job at helping me keep my babies watered just right, Goldilox style: not too wet, and not too dry, but just right (...or close enough).

[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

For those who forget to water

By Lynn

from Beaverdam, VA on 7/9/2008

Pros:

Durable, Easy To Use, Lightweight

Describe Yourself:

Practical

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Great for starting seeds. Water infrequently since the reservoir will water the new plants continuously. I shall buy more,even though they will last for several years.

[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

20 years starting seeds this way

By Terrabuilder

from Walland, TN on 7/9/2008

Pros:

Durable, Easy To Use, Lightweight, Versatile

Best Uses:

Garden

Describe Yourself:

Bargain Hunter, Practical, Productive

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I have been using this product for the past 20 years and found it to be the best way to start seeds. Usually when starting seeds they need daily care to make sure the soil is moist, but with this product the only thing that is needed is to make sure that there is enough water in the bottom tray.

[2 of 2 customers found this review helpful]

1500 Seedlings Later....

By Granny Gardener

from Port Orchad, Washington on 7/9/2008

Pros:

Durable, Easy To Use, Lightweight

Best Uses:

Garden, Patio

Describe Yourself:

Practical

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I wanted an abundant garden this year. I was tired of having just a few of this or that to add color to my landscape. So I started over 1500 seedlings using the APS 40 system, and my yard is packed with color, texture, abundant bloom and fragrance! I got what I wanted! And next year will be even better because these seed starting trays made it very easy to start perennials, which are small this year but next year and beyond they will be gorgeous.

Yes and No

By Sandy

from Madras, OR on 7/8/2008

Pros:

Easy To Use, Lightweight

Cons:

Flimsy, Only 2 uses

Best Uses:

greenhouse

Describe Yourself:

Practical, Small grower

Comments about APS 40:

I love the idea and ease of use - the problem for us is the styrofoam started breaking apart after one use. I think we can get one more year, but for the price I was hoping for a longer period of use.

[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

Big help for early seed starting

By Beth the Pepper Lady

from Marietta, GA on 7/8/2008

Pros:

Compact, Easy To Use

Cons:

Flimsy, Flimsy lid bottom tray

Best Uses:

Early Start, Indoor

Describe Yourself:

Bargain Hunter, Frugal, Practical, Veggie Lover

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

I use this in a windowsill to get an early start for summer vegetables and herbs. I use a heating pad on top of the lid to warm the soil; this makes the seeds germinate very quickly. As more sprouts pop up, I remove the lid during the day and use a small fan to blow down on the seedlings, and this prevents rot. I also use a grow or daylight style florescent lamp for light. At night I put the lid back on and replace the heating pad. I do this until the sprouts grow too tall for the lid. Don't forget the water gauge!

Very happy with the quality and results

By Oregongirl

from Philomath, Oregon on 7/8/2008

Pros:

Easy To Use, Lightweight

Best Uses:

Garden

Describe Yourself:

Bargain Hunter, Practical

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about APS 40:

Was able to start some very difficult to germinate perennial seeds using this product and a heat mat beneath. VERY HAPPY with the results!

Customer Reviews about the APS 40 at Gardener's Supply Company