Paperpot Transplanter FAQ
Answers to the questions we hear most about the Paperpot Transplanter, paper chain pots, and the Kwik Klik Slide. Still stuck? Email hello@moderngrower.co.
Transplanter and paper chain pots
How do I assemble the HP-16 Paperpot Transplanter?
The bolts come pre-installed in their final locations: remove them, fit the parts together and reinstall. A socket wrench with 10 mm and 13 mm sockets speeds things up. Plan on under 30 minutes for one person, less with two. See the assembly guide and video or download the assembly instructions (PDF).
How many rows can I plant in a 30″ bed?
Two to five, depending on the crop: two for peas and leeks, three for head lettuce, cabbage and basil, four for most lettuce, beets and greens, five for onions, garlic, dill and salad turnips. Each crop’s settings are in the Paperpot growers notes.
How long are the paper chain pots?
Every chain has 264 cells. The 2″ chain stretches to about 49.5 feet, the 4″ to 93 feet and the 6″ to 139 feet. Specs are on the paper chain pots tech sheet.
Can I get wider spacing than 6″?
Yes. Seed every other cell with a skip plate for 8″ (on 4″ chains) or 12″ (on 6″ chains). See skip spacing.
What happens to the paper in the field?
It won’t fully break down during a short crop. Most growers pull the chains when they flip the bed and compost or discard them with the crop residue.
Can paper chain pots be used on certified organic farms?
Paper-based planting pots were added to the USDA National List of allowed substances in late 2022, and they’re accepted for Certified Naturally Grown farms. Confirm with your certifier before you use them.
Trays, potting mix and seeding
How many trays does a yard of potting mix fill?
About 150 Paperpot trays, give or take 10.
Which Kwik Klik plate do I need?
The top plate’s thickness and hole size set how many seeds land in each cell. Each crop’s plate is listed in its growers notes, and the Kwik Klik Slide instructions include a plate chart and how to test your seed.
Can I use the Paperpot trays or the Kwik Klik for microgreens?
Yes. The trays are thicker than standard 10/20 flats and have about 20% more growing space, so factor that into your tray count. The Kwik Klik Slide takes microgreen plates as well as Paperpot, cell tray and Winstrip plates. See the microgreens guides.