Grow Mediums Germinate in final pot?

Before I started using 6" rock wool cubes as my grow medium I always tried to germinate in the growing pot. Transplanting is just an extra step if it is not needed and an opportunity to damage the plant. My new system requires a transplant of sorts.

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Before I started using 6" rock wool cubes as my grow medium I always tried to germinate in the growing pot. Transplanting is just an extra step if it is not needed and an opportunity to damage the plant. My new system requires a transplant of sorts.

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I use a similar system for soil, "transferring" my pellet the day after sprout, into my pre-moistened final pot.
 

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I use a similar system for soil, "transferring" my pellet the day after sprout, into my pre-moistened final pot.
The method of starting a seed on a heat mat is a good reason to transplant.
 
I just done a transplant from 2-3 litre garden pot to a 15 l airpot that I reduced the size of by raising up the bottom of the pot and I have to say it was easy and stress free on me and the plant. In my opinion I think it's just a lack of care taken if you mess up a transplant as it's pretty straight forward if you take your time and plan.
 

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I am trying this method for next round, in a week. 2x3oz plastic cups. One with base cut out and cut up the sides, the other base cut for drainage.View attachment 1169184View attachment 1169185

I tried the cup cut down the sides with holes on the bottom it worked well on my first transplant.

I think the key to planting in final pot with autos is make sure the medium is not too wet when putting seed in the soil. I have found it to work best when I soak the pot and leave for a few days to dry up a little so it's not saturated and then you don't need to worry about watering until pot feels light.
 
I have experienced 100% germination in small containers, and 0% noticeable stunting or other issues as a result of transplanting. Nowhere near the numbers other here have experience with, but my experience to date has been consistent.

The reasons I transplant is because I can more readily control temperature by germinating in a smaller container, and because there is reason to expect that root development may be better by up potting once roots are well established.

Both transplanting and starting in final pots work fine if done well, but I would not choose the latter unless I was able to start and maintain germination temperatures above 80F.
 
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