Using plastic sleeves to protect vegetable seedlings during shipping is a common practice among plant nurseries and growers, and there are several reasons why this approach is necessary:
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Protection from damage: During the shipping process, seedlings can be jostled around, crushed, or otherwise damaged. The plastic sleeve provides a layer of protection that helps prevent physical damage to the plant.
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Retains moisture: Shipping can also cause the soil to dry out, which can be detrimental to the health of the seedlings. The plastic sleeve helps to retain moisture, keeping the soil and roots from drying out.
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Maintains temperature: Temperature fluctuations during shipping can also be harmful to seedlings. The plastic sleeve helps to maintain a more stable temperature environment for the plants, which can be especially important during colder months or when shipping long distances.
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Prevents contamination: The plastic sleeve also helps to prevent contamination from pests, disease, and other environmental factors that may be present during the shipping process.
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Facilitates identification: Finally, the plastic sleeve can include labeling and other identifying information, making it easier for growers and customers to keep track of their plants and ensure they are receiving the correct species or variety.
In summary, the use of plastic sleeves is an important tool for ensuring the survival and health of vegetable seedlings during shipping. While there are concerns about the environmental impact of plastic, many nurseries like ours and growers are working to reduce their use of single-use plastics and find more sustainable alternatives.
