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Photo by Brooke Coburn |
It is time to begin to transplant tender seedlings outdoors,
and seedlings that have grown indoors up to this point need special treatment
before being planted outdoors. These seedlings are used to lower light levels,
protection from the elements, and ample water. So they will need to adjust
gradually to the outdoor environment, a process called hardening off.
Hardening Off
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Photo by Brooke Coburn |
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Shade for new seedlings by Brooke Coburn |
About a week before transplanting, begin placing the
seedlings outdoors for a few hours each day. Place the plants in a location
with light shade and protection from the wind so as to avoid scalding and
wilting. A shade cloth, tree, or trellis can provide adequate shade. Each day,
gradually increase the amount of time the seedlings spend outdoors until they
can be left out even overnight. Keep a careful watch on the weather forecast,
however, and be sure to bring the seedlings inside if temperatures are going to
dip near to freezing.
Transplanting
Transplant seedlings on an overcast, cool day, if possible,
after the danger of frost has passed. Loosen the soil and dig a hole for the
transplant. Carefully remove the seedling from the pot, keeping as many of the
roots intact as possible. Place the roots in the hole and move loose dirt back
around to support the stem of the plant. Water right away with a solution of
half strength fertilizer. Keep newly transplanted seedlings well-watered for
the first three to four weeks after transplanting until they develop a larger
root system.
Summary
Gradually acclimate seedlings to the outdoor environment by
providing protection from sun and wind. Transplant on a cool, overcast day, and
continue to provide sufficient water until the root system has developed. See
the links below for more information and to find your local frost dates.
Sources
Buying and Hardening Seedlings https://planttalk.colostate.edu/topics/vegetables/1802-buying-hardening-transplants/