> I've used two types of electric heat mats that were both designed for > plant use. > The smaller black mats came from AM Leonard. The small size works > perfectly beneath grow lights for tropical and subtropical plants that > require lots of heat for germination. These mats were purchsed in the > early nineties and still work well. The mats are designed to provide > a constant heat. The heat from the mat allows you to keep your > germination area temperature lower. The larger mats came from Charlie's greenhouse. You can set the thermometer at your desired level and the mat provides the constant heat. I use these mats for plants that need temperatures higher than the greenhouse minimum as well as Mediterranean type plants that need plenty of air circulation for cuttings not to rot. Nurseries use these mats for years. For your germination area you need to install gfi(ground fault interruption) plugs. Building codes require these plugs in baths and kitchens where you could have shocks from water. Remember gardening is supposed to be fun; don't ruin it and electrocute yourself.