Product Description
Screw lid agar plates (4 pack) pre-poured & sterilised ready to-use plates designed for simplicity and clean results. Each pack includes four pre-poured plates filled with sterilised agar and sealed with airtight screw lids — no Parafilm or grafting tape required.
Key Features
- No Parafilm Needed: Each plate features a precision screw-top lid that creates a secure, contamination-resistant seal — eliminating the need for Parafilm or grafting tape.
- Pre-Poured with Sterilised Agar: Supplied ready to inoculate straight out of the pack. Each plate contains a smooth, consistent layer of sterilised agar for clean culture work.
- Beginner Friendly: Ideal for new cultivators — simply inoculate and incubate. No complicated sealing or plate pouring required.
- Reusable & Autoclavable
Made from durable polypropylene (PP), these plates can be cleaned and sterilised for reuse, making them both economical and environmentally conscious. - Clear, Stackable DesignTransparent walls allow you to easily observe mycelial growth without unsealing, and the stackable shape keeps your workspace tidy.
Applications
- Mycelial isolation and agar transfers
- Culture expansion and observation
- Long-term storage of clean cultures
Simplify your workflow: These screw lid agar plates offer the convenience of ready-made agar with the reliability of a tight, reusable seal. Perfect for beginners and professionals.
Product FAQs
- What are agar plates used for?
Agar plates provide a nutrient-rich surface for growing and observing fungi, bacteria, or spores. In mycology, they’re ideal for isolating clean cultures before moving on to grain or liquid media.
- Can agar plates be reused?
No — once an agar plate has been inoculated or opened, it shouldn’t be reused. Always start fresh to avoid contamination.
- What’s the best way to seal agar plates?
Grafting tape or Parafilm are top choices. They allow minimal gas exchange while keeping contaminants out — a simple but crucial step in sterile work.
- How do I store unused agar plates?
Keep them sealed in their sleeve or stack, inside a clean zip-lock bag or airtight container in the fridge. Avoid condensation by letting them reach room temperature before opening.
- Can I autoclave agar plates?
Pre-poured plates can’t be autoclaved — they’ll melt. If you make your own agar, sterilise the agar mixture before pouring it into dishes.
- What’s the difference between LMEA and PDA agar plates?
LMEA (Light Malt Extract Agar) promotes strong, fast mycelium growth, while PDA (Potato Dextrose Agar) encourages more natural, fluffy growth. Both work well — it’s often a matter of preference or strain behaviour.
- How long do agar plates last?
When stored sealed and refrigerated (4–8 °C), agar plates typically stay fresh for 2–3 months. Warmer conditions or exposure to light can shorten their shelf life.
- Can I pour my own agar plates?
Absolutely! You can pour agar into your own sterile containers once it cools to about 45–50 °C. Some people prefer pre-poured sterile plates for convenience, but preparing your own agar is a valuable skill to learn.
- Why is condensation forming on my agar plates?
It’s normal after pouring or during temperature changes. Allow the plates to sit upside down (agar side up) in a clean area to dry slightly before use to reduce excess moisture.
What will I receive?
When will I receive my item?
We'll prepare and dispatch your item on the same day for orders made before noon (UK time) on working days, i.e. Mon-Fri & non-holidays (UK). In the UK you could usually expect to receive your item within 2-3 days. Outside the UK times can vary greatly - so it is better to order well in advance.
Any confusion then please contact us for clarification.
Can I return my item?
We only accept returns on unopened items. However if you have received a damaged or defective product, then please contact us and we'll be sure to put things right. See our full refund policy.
