How to Harden Off Your Seedlings

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Overwintering plants and young seedlings need to acclimate to the outdoor elements before being planted in the garden.

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Acclimating Your Indoor Plants

Hardening off indoor plants is the transition period from a controlled environment to harsh outdoor elements.

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Reduce the Risk of Shock

This process allows plants to slowly acclimate to the temperature and light changes as well as helps to reduce the risk of transplant shock.

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Begin the hardening-off process 7-10 days before transplanting seedlings or plants in the garden.

When to Start to Harden Off Your Plants

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Where to Start the Process

When the spring temperatures are above 45°F, set the seedlings in a sheltered and shady spot outdoors, protected from direct sunlight and wind for one hour on day one.”.

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Water Before Leaving Plants Outdoors

Make sure you’ve watered the plants thoroughly before bringing them outdoors

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After placing the plants in a protected spot for 1-2 hours on the first day, slowly increase the amount of time each day after.

Increase the Time Your Plants are Outdoors Each Day

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Harden Off Plants in Calm Weather

Strong winds and heavy rains can be damaging, so wait until the weather is calm and dry before starting the process.

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