Stable for more than 12 months
The paper keeps its structure during a long propagation period, even in humid conditions.
Knowledge base
Paper Plug Trays explained
Everything about rockwool plugs with a paper sleeve: what they are, how Ellepot FP 12+ technology works and how to get the best rooting with them.
Paper Plug TraysEllepot FP 12+
In short
A Paper Plug Tray is a propagation tray with rockwool plugs that each sit in a paper sleeve. The sleeve holds the plug together, lets roots grow through it and goes into the ground with the plug. No plastic pot, no transplant shock.
Two tray layouts
Both versions are supplied by the complete box.
84cells · Ø38 × 42 mm · 8 trays per box
104cells · Ø32 × 40 mm · 7 trays per box
672cells per box (tray 84)
728cells per box (tray 104)
What is Ellepot FP 12+?
FP 12+ is the Ellepot paper around every plug.
Roots grow through
Roots grow through the paper and are air-pruned on the outside. That gives a compact, branched root ball.
Biodegradable
The paper is made from wood fibres and breaks down in the soil. No plastic is left behind.
Why the sleeve is biodegradable
The paper sleeve replaces the plastic pot or the loose plug.
- Made from renewable wood fibres
- Breaks down after the plug is planted
- No plastic waste in the nursery
- No loose plugs that fall apart
- The rockwool itself remains; only the sleeve is biodegradable
Preventing transplant shock
Transplant shock occurs when roots are damaged or dry out during transplanting. A paper sleeve prevents most of it.
- 1
Plant the complete plug, including the paper sleeve. Do not remove the sleeve.
- 2
Transplant on time: as soon as white root tips are visible through the paper.
- 3
Water the plug well the day before transplanting so the root ball is moist.
- 4
Plant at the same depth as in the tray; do not set the plug deeper.
- 5
Ensure good contact between plug and substrate and water immediately.
- 6
Keep humidity high for the first days and avoid strong direct sunlight.
- 7
Start feeding only once you see new growth.
Optimising root formation
A healthy root ball starts in the tray.
- 1
Soak the plugs well before sticking or sowing and let them drain.
- 2
Keep the rockwool moist but not saturated; too wet means too little oxygen.
- 3
Keep a root temperature of 18 to 24 °C.
- 4
Aim for a humidity of around 80 to 90 percent for cuttings, and ventilate daily.
- 5
Work with a low EC in the first week and build up slowly.
- 6
Check for roots through the paper after 10 to 14 days; the plug is then ready to transplant.
Where Paper Plug Trays are used
- Vegetable plants such as tomato, pepper and cucumber
- Ornamentals and perennials
- Herbs and microgreens
- Cuttings of woody crops
- Vertical farming and hydroponics
Knowledge base
Further reading
Paper Plug Trays
Choose your Paper Plug Tray
Tray 84 for a larger plug, tray 104 for more plants per tray. By the complete box, free shipping within the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany.