The covers will allow you to start plants outdoors earlier in the season. The openings on the top allow for air and water exchange. The GrowAway domes are reusable and will last for multiple growing seasons. Protect your seeds and seedlings from hungry critters/insects and sudden drop in temperature. Stakes are not required beacuse of the lip around the bottom edge - just brush up soil onto the lip to hold it in place. However, they also Include holes at the bottom for optional anchoring stakes. Made from durable food-safe plastic, GrowAway domes create a safe, mini-greenhouse environment that protect seeds and young plants from hungry animals, pests, frost and the wind. The covers will allow you to start plants outdoors earlier in the season. The openings on the top allow for air and water exchange. The GrowAway domes are reusable and will last for multiple growing seasons. Product Dimensions: 10.24"Diam. x 7.48"H Material: PVC Plastic