Tips on Transplanting
Way to Grow : Episode WTG-135 -- More Projects » Here, hosts Dan Pawlus and Mayita Dinos share tips for transplanting seedlings and young plants. Dan and Mayita explain that once a gardener understands the basic transplanting principles, following the actual process is quite simple. They also emphasize the importance of always handling plants with care. Featured tips are outlined below:
Transplanting Young Plants
1) Have planting holes ready. This minimizes the transplanting time, which reduces plant shock.
2) Transplant when the plant is still small. This means less work and quicker recovery for the plant.
3) Keep as much soil around roots as possible. Until plants become established in their new surroundings, their roots should have easy access to water and nutrients.
4) Pay special attention to roots. While plants are out of the ground, keep roots moist by misting them or wrapping them in burlap. It is important to limit the time that they are out of the ground and to protect them from sun and wind.
5) Transplant in weather that keeps plants out of heat. Try to select a cool, overcast day - even drizzly - for transplanting. If this isn't practical, begin the process in the late afternoon. During the first week after transplanting, keep the plants shaded.
Transplanting Seedlings
1) Feed and water first. Several days before transplanting, feed with liquid fertilizer. Then water the seedlings just a few hours prior to transplanting.
2) Timing is everything. The best time to move seedlings is immediately after the first set of "true" leaves has emerged. If developing seedlings are left in their containers too long, they will begin to crowd each other.
3) Harden the seedlings. Tender seedlings started indoors need to be "toughened up" two weeks before transplanting. To achieve this, hold back on food and limit water. After a full week of this treatment, set them outside each day for one hour in a sheltered location, then increase their daily exposure until they are out for a full day.
4) Handle with care. Several basic guidelines include the following:
Lift the seedlings out with a trowel.
Keep soil around the roots.
Support the root ball with a tool.
Handle plants only by the side leaves - never by the stem or top.
TIP: Carefully cut the top off an eggshell, then fill it with soil. Next, sow a seed inside the shell. To transplant the seedling, simply plant the entire shell in the ground - it will decompose naturally and also provide the soil with beneficial nutrients.
5) Transporting seedlings. Before moving seedlings any significant distance, plant them in an egg carton. When it is time to transport them, just close the lid for safe carrying.
