Ladbrooke Micro 20 Soil Block Maker - Tiny Blocks for Small Seeds

In this review the Ladbrooke Micro 20 Soil Block Maker is evaluated for gardeners who start large numbers of very small seeds and want a reusable, pot-less option. The single biggest reason to buy is its ability to produce twenty uniform 3/4in soil blocks with a pre-formed dimple for precise seed placement, which speeds up germination tasks and reduces transplant shock. Built in England from zinc-plated steel, the tool is clearly aimed at serious home gardeners and small-scale growers who value durable, plastic-free seed starting.

Key Features

• Twenty tiny blocks: The Micro 20 makes twenty 3/4in x 3/4in x 3/4in soil blocks per compression, letting you start many small seeds at once.
• Pre-formed dimples: Each block includes an indentation on top to place a seed precisely and consistently for even germination.
• Nesting system compatibility: Blocks made in the Micro 20 can be upsized into Mini 4 or Multi series tools later using Cubic Inserts for staggered transplanting.
• Zinc-plated steel construction: The robust metal handle and construction feel solid and resist corrosion for repeated use over seasons.
• Eco-friendly, pot-less method: Soil blocks eliminate the need for plastic starter pots and trays, reducing waste and storage hassle.
• Requires fine mix: Designed for very small blocks, it benefits from a finely screened, rock-free soil blocking mix to form clean shapes.

Who It's For

The Micro 20 is ideal for organic gardeners, hobby farmers, and seed savers who start lots of small seeds like lettuce, herbs, or annual flowers and want a compact, high-throughput method. It suits people who prefer a reusable metal tool and who are comfortable preparing a fine soil blocking mix free of large particles.

It is less suitable for gardeners who need larger blocks for big transplants or those who prefer the convenience of individual plastic plugs; also, casual users who will only start a handful of seeds each season may find the effort to prepare mix and use the tool disproportionate to their needs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Produces uniform 3/4in soil blocks that speed up seeding and reduce transplant shock.
• Pre-formed dimples make seed placement quick and consistent for high germination rates.
• Durable zinc-plated steel construction with the Ladbrooke logo stamped in the handle.
• Part of a nesting system that allows seedlings to be upsized without disturbing roots.

Cons

• Requires a very fine, rock-free blocking mix and some practice to form clean blocks.
• Small block size may be limiting for larger-seeded plants or those needing more root volume.

Specifications

Product type	Hand held soil block maker
Block size	3/4in x 3/4in x 3/4in
Blocks per use	20
Material	Zinc-plated steel
Made in	England
Compatible system	Micro 20 / Mini 4 / Multi 6 / Multi 12 nesting system

Our Verdict

The Ladbrooke Micro 20 is a focused, well-made tool for gardeners who start many small seeds and want to reduce plastic use and transplant shock. Its tiny, uniform blocks and pre-formed dimples deliver consistent germination when used with a fine blocking mix, and the nesting system adds long-term flexibility. It represents good value for committed seed starters but is less useful for those who need larger blocks or only start a few plants each season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size seeds work best in the Micro 20?
The tool is intended for very small seeds such as lettuce, small herbs, and tiny flower seeds; larger seeds will need a bigger block.

Does it require a special soil mix?
Yes, use a fine, rock-free soil blocking mix so the 3/4in blocks form cleanly and hold their shape.

Can seedlings be transplanted to larger blocks?
Yes, seedlings started in the Micro 20 can be upsized into Mini 4 or Multi series blocks with Cubic Inserts for staged transplanting.