Hardening Off Seedlings: A Simple Checklist

If you’ve started your vegetable seedlings indoors, you can’t just plant them straight into the garden. They need time to adjust to outdoor conditions—this process is called hardening off. Without it, young plants can suffer from transplant shock, sunburn, or cold damage.

✔ 1. Check the weather

Ensure outdoor temperatures are warm enough (above 45–50°F or 7-10 C for cool-season crops, 55°F+ or over 12 C for warm-season crops).

✔ 2. Pick a sheltered spot

Start in a shady, wind-protected area for the first few days.

✔ 3. Start with short exposure

Place seedlings outside for 1–2 hours on the first day, then bring them back in.

✔ 4. Increase time gradually

Add 1–2 hours of outdoor time each day, moving them into more sunlight.

✔ 5. Reduce watering slightly

Don’t let them dry out, but avoid overwatering to help strengthen stems.

✔ 6. Introduce wind and full sun

After a few days, allow plants to experience gentle breezes and direct sunlight for part of the day.

✔ 7. Extend outdoor time

By day 7–9, leave seedlings outside all day and begin exposing them to cooler temperatures.

✔ 8. Leave them out overnight

If nighttime temperatures are mild, let plants stay outside on night 9 or 10.

✔ 9. Transplant on a cloudy day

Minimize transplant shock by planting in the evening or on an overcast day.

✔ 10. Water well and mulch

Keep soil moist after planting and add mulch to protect young roots.

Bonus Tips for Hardening Off Seedlings

✅ If unexpected cold weather hits, bring plants inside or cover them with a cloche or row cover.

✅ Wind can dry out delicate leaves—use a temporary windbreak if needed.

✅ Don’t rush the process! Even a few extra days of hardening off can lead to stronger, healthier plants.

I recommend:

Why is Soil so Important is a great ebook giving simple and easy instructions on making and keeping your garden soil healthy.

Check out my growing tips for you favourite vegetables.

Vegetable Garden Plans for your Rasised Beds
Vegetable Garden Plans for Square foot Gardens
Vegetable Garden Plans for Row Gardening

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Catherine
your-vegetable-gardening-helper

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