•An overview of trends in seedling and transplant production has been carried out.•Statistical, mathematical, and clustering tools were used to analyse bibliometrics.•Sustainable growing media optimize resources and reduce input use.•Grafting and LED lighting are now common techniques in seedlings production.•Nutripriming and biostimulants promote sustainable vegetable nutritional quality. Nowadays, sustainable and resilient cultivation techniques have significantly increased in vegetable cultivation. Thus, there is a growing demand for high-quality certified planting materials suitable for these new cultivation methods. This review aims to provide a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of recent sustainable practices in vegetable seedling nurseries. Here, we thoroughly analysed 604 articles and 3553 keywords from the Scopus database, utilizing qualitative and quantitative methods, covering the past 20 yr. We conducted a bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer software. to identify the most relevant study topics. The design of seed trays, seed enhancement treatments, and controlled environmental conditions are crucial for generating optimal seedlings and transplants. Additionally, sustainable growing media are necessary to optimize resources and reduce input use. We identified grafting and LED lighting technology as rapidly advancing technologies in seedling production. Furthermore, applying biostimulants and beneficial microorganisms as booster agents can enhance efficiency and promote sustainable production. The findings of this study offer valuable insights into the research trends for vegetable seedlings and transplants, underscoring the imperative for adopting sustainable practices within the nursery industry. Display omitted