Don’t forget to harden off those medicine babies!
Starting your own medicinal herbs from seed can be so satisfying but it also takes a step that many folks forget when they’re accustomed to buying plants from a nursery. Hardening off tender baby plants who have spent their life in your little safe and comfy nursery is a crucial step that could result in immediate death when they face the sun, wind and rain if ignored. But don’t worry it’s really not hard.
Harden off a plant transplant means getting it used to the outdoor conditions gradually after growing it indoors or in a sheltered environment. Here's how to do it:
1. Choose the Right Time
Wait until the weather is consistently warm during the day and there's no more risk of frost. Typically, this is about 1-2 weeks after the last frost date in your area.
2. Start Slowly
About a week before you plan to transplant your babies outdoors, begin the hardening-off process. Start by placing the plant outside in a sheltered spot for just an hour or two each day, preferably during the mildest part of the day.
3. Increase Exposure
Gradually increase the time the seedling spends outdoors over the course of a week. Each day, add an extra hour or two of outdoor exposure. Be mindful of weather conditions like strong winds or intense sunlight, and avoid exposing the plant to them initially.
4. Choose the Right Spot
Place the plant in a spot that mimics the conditions it will experience when permanently planted outdoors. If it's going to be in full sun, gradually increase its exposure to sunlight. If it will be in partial shade, gradually introduce it to a spot with less direct sunlight.
5. Monitor for Stress
Keep an eye on your plant during the hardening-off process. If you notice any signs of stress such as wilting, yellowing leaves, or drooping, move the plant back indoors temporarily or provide some shade.
6. Protect from Extreme Conditions
If the weather forecast calls for unusually hot, cold, or windy conditions, adjust your hardening-off schedule accordingly. You may need to provide temporary shade or protection from strong winds until the plant is fully acclimated.
7. Water and Fertilize Appropriately
Make sure the plant is adequately watered during the hardening-off process but avoid overwatering. Also, hold off on fertilizing until the plant is fully established in its outdoor location.
8. Transplant
Once the plant has been gradually exposed to outdoor conditions for about a week and is showing no signs of stress, it's ready to be transplanted into its permanent outdoor location. Choose a spot with well-draining soil and water the plant thoroughly after transplanting. By following these steps and gradually acclimating your plant to outdoor conditions, you can help ensure a successful transition from indoor or sheltered growing to outdoor gardening.
